History Of Fundraising

Nowadays Fundraising has become very common as it now more easier to donate small or large amounts of money online. However fundraising is not a 21st century invention, it has been active since the 1900's. as many people think that the majority of projects got their start around 20 years ago.

Organizations such as the YMCA utilized fundraising campaigns around the early part of the twentieth century. This enabled them to raise revenue to build YMCA'S around the globe. This creative idea was put forward by Charles Sumner Ward who is considered to be the godfather of modern day fundraising. In the late 1800's he came up with a very creative concept. While working as secretary for his office he noticed that he had been spending numerous hours trying to raise funds. He then developed a rather novel idea involving the general workers who then worked a half day doing office duties ,and spent the rest of the day carrying on fundraising campaigns. This idea worked so well that large amounts of revenue were gained from it.

This concept was so successful that it was utilized by other YMCA locations in the USA and eventually throughout the globe. Different branches in the United States raised hundreds of thousands of dollars which is equivalent to millions of dollars in today's currency. This has allowed the YMCA to acquire the distinction of being one of most successful non profit organizations in history.

This type of fundraising has also been put in practice by other organizations over time. It is now being seen in many other different variations such as phone calls, email campaigns and so on. The concept that Charles Sumner initiated in the late 19th century is still being widely used by major non profit organizations .

Benefits Of Fundraising

Financial returns have improved since the economic crisis of 2008  when charitable donations lagged  The year 2012 saw the total of donated funds from individuals and organizations reach  316 Billion Dollars.  This amount out performed the totals of 298 Billion in 2011 & the pre-recession amount of 311 Billion in 2007.

This recent success of fundraising campaigns is indicative that the economy is becoming more stable. People in general are now making donations to non profit organizations a top priority.

Meeting Expenses

The increase in fundraising activity is a very positive event  for the many non profit organizations . These organizations use this revenue for their operating expenses  & funding programs. The United States Government utilizes fundraising revenue to supplement funding for educational institutions. This provides an income stream  for needed supplies & other important programs. Many Social Service programs also benefit from these income sources.

Schools  by themselves reportedly have earned more than 1.5 Billion dollars annually through bake & product sales. This supports vital programs such as computer, field trip & playground equipment costs

Benefits Not Seen

The donors that participate in these fundraising efforts also see many different types of rewards. This can be seen in the happiness and mental outlook of the individual participants. There is evidence that people who give to charity on a regular basis are more happier than the rest of the general population.


Skill Development

Being involved in Fundraising is a real opportunity for people to increase certain skills which can benefit their everyday life. The subject of Fundraising is also widely taught  in today's educational environment .Teachers, administrators and parents all  utilize fundraising for the development of teamwork, organization & interpersonal skills.

Goal setting, self introduction, speaking of specific needs, convincing others are just a few of the circumstances that can lead individuals to soft skills. These skills are of a vital importance to personal & professional life experiences. Management of inevitable errors in a low risk environment is crucial for the development of self sufficiency & confidence.

Academic Enhancement

For students attending school fundraising can be an valuable asset when it comes to curriculum. Younger children can benefit from math & finance skills, while older students gain experience with business and marketing.

School personnel that combine fundraising & classroom activities can successfully demonstrate the utilization of theoretical ideas. These concepts can assist in the transformation of passive learning to a curriculum  that is more engaging and long lasting