Women use the Internet differently from men. African-Americans, English-speaking Hispanics, and white Americans use cyberspace differently from each other. And white Americans are more likely to be connected to the Net than African-Americans and Hispanics.1
Traditional fundraising events raise funds while reinforcing a sense of community among members and supporters. Conflicts of time and place, however, or lack of knowledge about events often prevent potential bidders from participating in live auctions. On-line auctions can help organizations reach thousands of potential bidders and promote their name. The most common bids are on cars, clothes, and celebrity appearances.
Donor and volunteer research conducted by GuideStar, Network for Good, and Volunteer Match can help you understand the changing dynamics of these two important groups of supporters. Learn how the Internet has affected volunteerism and donor behavior by viewing these PowerPoint presentations:
April 2004
© Philanthropic Research, Inc.
GuideStar is recognized as the national database of nonprofit information, a valuable resource for a wide range of philanthropy-related research. By posting the Forms 990 and 990-PF of every 501(c)(3) nonprofit that files one, GuideStar provides the sector with easy access to information on the financial activities of hundreds of thousands of organizations. But GuideStar does more than simply scan these forms and post them on the Internet.
If it sounds too good to be true ... well, you know the rest.
The Internet is great way for potential donors and volunteers to find your organization. Unfortunately, it can also expose you to some of cyberspace's less desirable denizens. E-mail scam artists have been filling up in boxes with offers of secretive get-rich-quick schemes for years now. Usually sent from a developing African nation, the e-mail explains how the sender has come into possession of a staggeringly large sum of money and needs your help to get it out of the country. Of course, you will be generously rewarded for all your efforts.
