COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 18, 2016)—Facebook has invited The Columbus Foundation to be a beta-partner in testing the launch of Facebook’s new charitable donation features. The Foundation was selected as a partner based on a “strong Facebook presence.” Currently, The Columbus Foundation is the only top-ten community foundation in the world by assets that has launched these donation capabilities on Facebook.
“Today, in the world of online giving, you have to be where the audience is. To be chosen as a partner by Facebook because of our excellent use of the Facebook platform is a high compliment. It also is an affirmation of the wisdom and value of The Columbus Foundation having built a culture of innovation to further animate philanthropy,” said Douglas F. Kridler, President and CEO of The Columbus Foundation.
As a beta-partner in the effort, credit card donations made on Facebook will incur no transaction fees. The Foundation has kicked-off its Facebook fundraising efforts with a focus on getting donations to the Gifts of Kindness Fund. The fund focuses on providing one-time, life-changing grants to help individuals who are experiencing an unforeseen setback, and need an immediate financial boost to help them continue on a path to independence and sustainability. With just a simple click, Facebook users can make donations right inside their feed of updates. 100% of the donations go to the individuals selected for this help by the Foundation’s nonprofit partners.
Pictured below is an example of the donation feature as seen in a user’s feed. The live donation post can be found here.
“From bringing people together to technology projects, the Foundation is always working on ways to improve our community through technology innovations such as The Big Give and our Charitable Gift Cards,” said Lisa S. Courtice, Ph.D., Executive Vice President of The Columbus Foundation. “We love smart collaborations, so being selected by Facebook is an honor and something we jumped on. The donation system on Facebook is very simple. It’s our responsibility to be forward-looking and it’s fun!”
About The Columbus Foundation
The Columbus Foundation is the trusted philanthropic advisor® to more than 2,400 individuals, families, businesses, and communities that have created unique funds to make a difference in the lives of others through the most effective philanthropy possible. More than 70 years strong, The Columbus Foundation is the seventh largest community foundation in the United States. The Foundation’s online giving marketplace, PowerPhilanthropy®, makes it possible for everyone to access valuable information about nonprofit organizations in central Ohio. Visit columbusfoundation.org to learn more.