As we have learned from countless experiences, the internet can be both a blessing and a curse. One of the best things to come out of the internet, in my opinion, is online fundraisers and charities. People no longer have to mail in money or only support local organizations, but can now wirelessly help fund crises and global issues which they feel passionately about, from their own homes. Social media contributes to spreading information and awareness so that more people can come across charities supporting those in need.
New Hope Girls
Based in: Dominican Republic
Focus: Human trafficking
New Hope Girls is a nonprofit organization based in the Dominican Republic aiming to provide refuge and restore the lives of young girls and women targeted by human trafficking. The organization started in 2011 when a local woman donated a small shack using six months' worth of her salary. Over the past few years, the shack was adapted and renovated to safely house, provide, and school the young girls.
Eventually, as the organization grew, they purchased larger land to house more girls. 2016, around five years after the start of the organization, they got the first-ever predator caught and put behind bars. They aim to keep the girls safe and see a change in how the legal system treats such cases.
Now, the organization houses a large number of girls seeking refuge. They have had girls grow up and graduate with them, proving that they are not just a statistic and that they can have their own story too.
You can donate directly on their site as well as send in cash donations to their address. They currently sell handmade products such as totes and pouches, which can be purchased through their site. They also collaborated with Pura Vida for International Women's Day a few months back, so in time for summer, you can buy the perfect summer bracelets from Pura Vida (pink) or directly from their site, New Hope Girls (green). They're cute for the summer and you're helping out the victims, at the same time.
If you ever get a fundraising opportunity or are already planning one, the bracelets are perfect to buy in bulk and sell while keeping a tribute to the organisation close to you. I plan on hosting one when possible and sending in the cash donations later on through the address on their website.
Friends of the Congo
Based in: The United States of America
Focus: Conflict in DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo)
A tragic war is happening within Congo. However, it is not until now, due to the conflict in the Middle East, that light is being shed on the horrifying conditions the residents of Congo are being subjected to. The organization was founded in 2004 and works hand-in-hand with the Congolese to bring peace and change to the region.
They aim to raise the awareness and attention of those who do not know of the current situations going on in Congo, as well as to restore peace so every one of the population can continue their life without the fear and uncertainty currently placed upon them.
There are several ways to help the organization. If you have the time and passion to further your support, there is a list of items that you can take part in to support the #FreeCongo movement, which can be found under their campaigns section, including sending letters to lawmakers and voluntary participation.
Fundraisers can be done online or in person, and all the funds can be sent through the donation link on their site. If you are not able to provide time to set up a fundraiser, personal donations are always accepted through the same link.
Save the Children
Based: Internationally
Focus: Global issues all over the world (natural disasters, war, poverty, etc.)
No child deserves to have their future taken away from them before their life has even fully started, but unfortunately, there are harsh conditions that children have to live through worldwide. Many are without families, safety and protection.
The organization helps as many kids and families in need as possible through the endless support from donations as well as the thorough research done by them. No region is left untouched, with support ranging from Asia to Europe, to Africa, to the Middle East. Some of their most urgent projects currently are the hunger crisis and the children who have gone missing in Gaza amidst the rubble and destruction.
Save the Children is a large organization, and there are tons of ways to support what they do. They cover many social issues, so there's bound to be one you're passionate about. On their site, each issue has a donation link to which you can donate personal or fundraising money.
A bake sale with informative posters featuring articles from their site is possibly one of the best ways to raise money and awareness at the same time, especially in schools or neighborhoods.
Rethink Mental Illness
Based in: England
Focus: Mental health
Despite numerous stereotypes, anyone—regardless of gender, race, age, wealth, and circumstance—can be affected by declining mental health.
Rethink Mental Illness aims to treat everyone affected by mental illness with equality, fair treatment, and empathy and let anyone going through a battle know they are not alone.
Helping those recovering from addictions, depression, PTSD and numerous other mental conditions, their site provides resources for those who need it, such as helplines and tips.
You can donate through their site if mental health is something you feel passionate about and want to help others. It doesn't matter whether you have learned from personal experiences or not—they value every bit of help they can get. If you live in England there are support groups and services you can visit, or you can even become part of their team if you are willing to reach out to the community.
What topics are you interested in or passionate about? What organizations do you actively support or go to for relevant resources? Let me know!
