Mobile technology gives you more opportunities to be philanthropic. Having quick access to the Internet lets you stay informed and contribute to worthy causes. Here are some of ways you can make a difference:
SMS Text Campaign
Nearly 1 in 10 Americans have made a charitable contribution via text message, according to the PewResearchCenter. For example, after the earthquake in Haiti in 2010, $43 million was donated for Haitian relief efforts through SMS text messages. Typically, an organization like the Red Cross establishes a donation amount and a number for you to text to pledge your donation. This is one of the easiest ways to give back because it can be done on any up-to-date cellphone like the HTC One M9.
I Can Go Without
This app helps you be conscientious about your everyday choices as a consumer. Instead of going for your daily $4 soy latte, for example, you can provide a child with clean, safe and accessible water for a year. I Can Go Without partners with many great organizations, including Thirst Relief International, ONEXONE and Sightsavers. The app keeps 6.9 cents of each donated dollar for operating costs.
Charity Miles
This program allows you to donate your time and energy to raise funds for your favorite cause. With this app, a donor must sponsor your athletic pursuits and pledge money based on how well you do. For example, corporate sponsors pay cyclists 10 cents per mile and walkers or runners 25 cents per mile completed. The app is easy to use and tracks your miles and money earned. Charity Miles is connected to organizations, such as Autism Speaks, Habitat for Humanity, Pencils of Promise, Feeding America, ASPCA, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, The Nature Conservatory, DoSomething.ORG and Stand Up to Cancer.
One Today
Sponsored by Google, One Today introduces you to a new nonprofit organization every day. If you see a charity that you feel drawn to, you can donate $1 with the app. Although $1 may not seem like a lot, it can make a difference. For example, by donating $1 to Pencils of Promise, you fund 17 days of school for a student in Laos. You also are able to share your favorite nonprofit organizations with your friends through social media to raise more money and awareness.
Check-in for Good
If you’re a fan of Foursquare and geo-tagging, this charitable app is for you. Check-in for Good allows you to support the businesses in your community and also help raise money for a good cause. When you check in at participating businesses, you can choose one of the charitable causes that the location supports, and the business will make a donation to that cause. This app creates incentives for businesses to donate by providing them with a great advertising opportunity.
It’s easier than ever to find worthy causes to support and donate to. With the help of your smartphone, you can stay up to date, donate money and spread awareness to your network.
