User:Flip89/sandbox

Benevolent is an Evanston, IL-based social networking site designed to foster individual giving to meet individual needs - connecting those who face a hurdle along their path to stability and success with those who wish to help. According to the Evanston Daily Patch, Benevolent serves three levels of community – 1) those with needs, 2) those with the drive to give, and 3) local nonprofits, schools and congregations seeking to serve their constituents and clients . Benevolent provides donors a secure and trusted validation process in which the individual with needs is vetted by a partner non-profit organization, thus facilitating direct giving to fund a one-time specific need.

Benevolent breaks new ground by providing the ease of personal connection coupled with the security of a trusted validation process. Unlike traditional giving, Benevolent supports a direct connection between individuals.

History

The concept of Benevolent came to Founder Megan Kashner on February 13, 2011. The complete site was launched on December 1, 2011. Benevolent was created and is operated by a small team of volunteers.

Process

The crowd-funding process Benevolent uses consists of four main steps.

1.    A person encounters a need and is referred by a non-profit they are involved with.

2.    The need is listed on the site so donors can help meet the need.

3.    Benevolent sends the money to the non-profit and the need is met.

4.    Donors receive updates from the person and the non-profit.

Success Stories

An example of a success story includes Alejandra. Her husband left her and her kids shortly after they arrived in the U.S. She had seamstress skills, but needed an industrial grade sewing machine in order to start her own business. Her need was met and she was able to start providing for her and her family.

Lee is a Master Gardener and works in 50 community gardens around Chicago. His truck broke down and he couldn’t get his supplies and equipment to garden sites. With his truck repaired in time for Spring, Lee was able to continue providing his services.

References