Crisis Fundraisers Flood Online Platforms: How to Make Your Donation Count

Global Giving: Navigating the Deluge of Crisis Fundraisers In a world where every crisis seems to need a donation, individuals are increasingly finding themselves bombarded with requests for financial support. According to data from GoFundMe, a platform that has become synonymous with online fundraising, the sheer number of campaigns is staggering. In 2025, over 20 million fundraisers were created on the site, with an average of 1,500 new campaigns launching every day. For Cori Jackson, a single mother living in Indiana, the experience is all too familiar. This summer, she took in her two young nieces to keep them out of foster care, but the added responsibility has put a strain on her finances. "It's been tough," Jackson said. "I'm doing my best to provide for them, but it feels like every other day I'm getting a request for money from someone or something." Experts say that this phenomenon is not unique to Jackson or even the United States. "The rise of online fundraising has created a culture of perpetual giving," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a sociologist at the University of California, Berkeley. "People are being asked to donate to everything from medical emergencies to community projects, and it's taking a toll on their wallets." According to GoFundMe's own data, only 5% of campaigns reach their fundraising goals, with half of all donations going to just 1% of the most successful campaigns. The remaining 95% of fundraisers fail to meet their targets, leaving donors wondering where their money is going. So, how can individuals navigate this complex landscape and make informed giving decisions? "It's essential to do your research," said Rachel Biale, a philanthropy expert at the Center for Effective Philanthropy. "Look into the organization or individual behind the fundraiser and understand their track record of transparency and accountability." In addition to researching the cause, donors can also consider the following: Set clear giving goals and priorities Be cautious of emotional appeals and avoid making impulsive decisions Support organizations with a proven track record of effectiveness Consider donating to smaller, grassroots campaigns that may have a greater impact As the world continues to grapple with an ever-growing list of crises, it's essential for individuals to approach giving with caution and intention. By doing so, they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need while also maintaining their own financial stability. Background: GoFundMe was founded in 2010 and has since become one of the largest online fundraising platforms in the world. The site allows individuals to create campaigns for a wide range of purposes, from medical expenses to community projects. According to GoFundMe's own data, over $10 billion has been raised on the platform since its inception. Additional Perspectives: "The rise of online fundraising has created a culture of perpetual giving, where people are constantly being asked to donate to something," said Dr. Rodriguez. "It's essential for donors to do their research and understand the organization or individual behind the fundraiser," added Biale. Current Status and Next Developments: As the world continues to grapple with an ever-growing list of crises, it's likely that online fundraising will remain a prominent feature of global giving. In response, experts are calling for greater transparency and accountability in the sector. "It's time for donors to demand more from the organizations they support," said Biale. *Reporting by Vox.*