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Fundraising TipsAsking for Help When You’re Hurting
Posted by Alex Shipley on Aug 4, 2025
Not every fundraising campaign begins with sunshine and rainbows-like an exciting trip, a long-awaited adoption, or a dream finally coming true. More often, we see someone's journey with us begin in a hospital room. Or with a devastating phone call. Or in the middle of the night after the worst news you've ever received. Sometimes... it starts on the worst day of your life. And while you're still hurting, the financial burden starts to sink in. You can barely breathe, let alone ask people for help. Grief, shock, fear, uncertainty-they've taken up residence in your chest, and the last thing you feel like doing is fundraising. What do I even say? How much do I share? Do I sound too desperate? People oftentimes come to our platform not just because they want to fundraise-but because they have to. A loss. A tragedy. A diagnosis. A fire. An accident. An unknown that flipped their life upside down. But we want you to know: we see you and... You shouldn't have to walk through this alone. That's why we do what we do. When you start a campaign on GiveSendGo, you're not just raising funds-you're inviting others into your pain, your healing, and your journey forward. So, be honest in your campaign description and share your heart. People want to hear your why, your story, and how their generosity can genuinely help you in your situation. Your supporters will give because they care about you and what you care about. But more than that, they'll pray. They'll encourage. They'll remind you that you're not abandoned or invisible. That you are surrounded by a community that wants to lift you up, even when words fall short. You might not feel ready. You might not feel strong. But asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It's an act of courage and humility. "Carry one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." -Galatians 6:2 Prayer is a gift that changes things Every campaign on GiveSendGo gets a personal prayer call. Yes, every single one. Our Hope Team is made up of people who don't just pray-they understand. They've walked through grief, trials, loss, and fear themselves, and God has shaped their own pain into compassion for others. So when you get a call from us, it won't feel like a script. It'll feel like a lifeline-a real conversation with someone who wants to hear your story, hold your pain with you, and bring it to God, who understands your situation and all the pain that comes with it better than anyone-and is the source of true hope. "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." -Psalm 34:18 What you can expect when you use GiveSendGo: A simple and secure way to raise funds The ability to share your story with people who want to help Encouraging messages and prayer requests from others A real prayer call from someone on our Hope Team Tools to keep people updated and involved in your journey A platform that points to true hope-not just financial relief But more than anything else, we hope you feel seen here. Because you are. We know how overwhelming it is to take this first step-especially when you're still reeling. But God meets us in the broken places. He walks with us through the valley. And He uses the body of Christ to show His love in real, tangible ways. "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." -Psalm 147:3 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." -Matthew 5:4 If you're reading this and you're hurting- We won't pretend to have all the right words. But we're praying even now that you'll feel God's presence and have confidence in Him in the middle of your storm. That you'll know this: you are not alone, and this pain isn't the end of your story. Whether you've already started a campaign or are just thinking about it, we want you to know-we're here to be a place where you can find help and hope, even in your darkest, scariest, and most uncertain moments. A place where you can build a community ready to help carry the burden with you.
GiveSendGo FeaturesHabit of Hope Challenge: Week 6 (Rooted in Hope – Grounding Our Faith)
Posted by Alex Shipley on Aug 2, 2025
Can you believe we've made it to Week 6 of the Habit of Hope Challenge? If you've been walking this journey with us, you've probably felt it-hope doesn't just inspire change. It requires commitment. Week 5 reminded us that hope takes action. And now, Week 6 invites us to dig deep, press on, and hold fast-even when it's hard. This is the kind of hope that sticks around. The kind that keeps showing up, especially when no one's watching. Because real hope doesn't quit-it perseveres. Still haven't joined the Habit of Hope challenge? It's not too late to start strong and finish the summer with us! Click HERE to sign up (it's not too late!!) and get: A FREE Habit of Hope Family Devotional PDF (for you to do with family, friends, your church group, or even yourself) Daily text messages with each mini hope mission (pretty convenient, huh?) Just want the texts? Text HOPE to 508-214-1197 and you're in! This Week's Mini Hope Missions: Steady faith. Deep roots. Every day impact. Day 36 - August 5 Support a Local Business Shop small today. It might be coffee, produce, or a local artist's craft. Comment, what's your favorite local business to support? Day 37 - August 6 Organize a Prayer Circle Ask 2-3 friends to gather (in person or online) and pray for others. Day 38 - August 7 Make a Care Package Fill a small bag with snacks, socks, hygiene items, or encouragement notes. Drop it off to someone in need-or keep one ready in your car. Day 39 - August 8 Write a Hopeful Letter Send a handwritten note to someone who's struggling. Remind them God's not done. Who did you send yours to? Day 40 - August 9 Share a GiveSendGo Campaign Find a campaign on GiveSendGo that moved you. Post it online with this sentence: "I believe in this." Day 41 - August 10 Visit Someone Lonely Spend time with someone who might be isolated: a widow, veteran, elderly neighbor, or sick friend. Your presence may be the most powerful gift you give this month. Day 42 - August 11 Donate to a Food Bank Bring shelf-stable items to a local pantry or church. What are the BEST (and worst) things to donate? Want to Keep the Momentum Going? Snap pics of your hope missions and tag us @GiveSendGo Use #60DaysOfHope to connect with the Habit of Hope community Invite a friend to join! Just have them text HOPE to 508-214-1197 Visit GiveSendGo.com to find someone to pray for or support Faithfulness is where hope takes root. Let's stay the course-together! Week 6 starts now. Let's keep going!
Fundraising TipsSharpen Your #2s: It’s Time for a Back-to-School Quiz!
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 29, 2025
Backpacks are filling up, lunchboxes are getting restocked, and teachers everywhere are prepping their classrooms with love (and usually their own wallets). Whether you're a student, teacher, parent, homeschool family, or just a fan of crisp new notebooks, this blog is for you. We've rounded up some surprising, nostalgic, and just plain fun back-to-school trivia. See how many you can guess before peeking at the answers. 1. Did you know erasers used to be made of... bread? Before rubber erasers, people used balled-up bread to erase pencil marks. 2. What percentage of teachers pay out of pocket for classroom supplies? A) 50% B) 75% C) 94% D) 87% Answer: C. Over 94% of teachers spend their own money-averaging nearly $500/year. Start a GiveSendGo campaign for your classroom this school year! 3. What was the original purpose of the school bell? A) To keep kids from lingering too long at lunch B) To sync school hours with factory shifts C) To scare away birds from crops nearby Answer: B. In the 19th century, many schools operated in coordination with local factories. The school bell helped mimic factory whistles to regulate time. 4. How many students ride the school bus each day in the U.S.? A) 26 million B) 10 million C) 40 million Answer: A. About 26 million students ride a yellow bus to school daily. 5. True or False: The average family spends more on back-to-school shopping than they do on Christmas. Answer: False. But not by much! The average family spends $586 per child on back-to-school needs. 6. What's the oldest school in the world? A) University of Bologna B) Shishi School in China C) Oxford Answer: B. Shishi School in Chengdu, China was founded in 194 B.C. That's a LOT of recesses. 7. Which of these is NOT a real school supply teachers say they buy themselves? A) Band-Aids B) Snacks C) Chairs D) Rulers Answer: Trick question. They've bought them all. Teachers shouldn't have to choose between pencils and snacks. That's where GiveSendGo campaigns and generous givers come in! 8. What's one of the most common reasons homeschool families fundraise? Field trips, curriculum costs, hands-on learning tools, and co-op fees! If you're a homeschool parent, your "classroom" deserves support too. Start a campaign for that microscope, museum trip, or new math program. 9. True or False: Crayola crayons were originally made from bee pollen and oil? Answer: False. Crayola crayons were invented in 1903 and made from paraffin wax and safe industrial pigments-finally, a colorful and non-toxic option for kids. 10. You can start a GiveSendGo campaign in ___ minutes. Answer: 5. Yep, it's really that quick! Start a GiveSendGo This Back-to-School Season Whether it's raising funds for: A kindergarten teacher who just wants dry-erase markers that work A teen who needs help affording lunch A homeschool parent curating a Christ-centered curriculum A college student's spring tuition A co-op group pooling resources for field trips and hands-on learning Because the only thing more powerful than a sharpened pencil...is a community that shows up to help and share hope with those who need it most. Statistics from the National Education Association (NEA), The New York Times, National Education Policy Center, New York School Bus Contractors Association, and Crayola History.
Fundraising TipsIf You’re Buying Your Own Markers Again, Read This!
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 29, 2025
Did you know that 94% of teachers in the U.S. spend their own money on classroom supplies-averaging nearly $500 a year? In some districts, that number soars above $800.* From pencils and tissues to flexible seating and classroom décor, the financial burden placed on teachers is both staggering and often overlooked. At GiveSendGo, we think it's time for that to change. Whether you're a public school teacher, a private school educator, or a homeschool parent pouring into your child's learning, you shouldn't have to carry the financial load of building a great learning environment on your own. Teachers Are Underrated. Their Classrooms Shouldn't Be. You're not just an educator-you're a cheerleader, counselor, supply manager, and sometimes a second parent. The impact you make on a student's life can't be measured by test scores alone. And yet, when it comes to tangible support, you're often expected to do more with less. That's why we're inviting teachers of all types to start a Back-to-School Campaign on GiveSendGo. Because whether it's new books, art supplies, a field trip, sensory-friendly furniture, or even an upgraded homeschool curriculum, you deserve help. Why Use GiveSendGo? It's free to use. We don't take a cut of what you raise. It's easy. You can start your campaign in just a 5 minutes. It's help and hope. Fundraise for your material needs while also receiving spiritual and emotional support-through the "Pray" button on your campaign page, a call from our Hope Team, and more. If you've ever thought, "I hate asking people for money," we get it. But this isn't about asking for yourself-it's about making sure your students (or children) get the education and experience they deserve. And people want to support that. Start a Back-to-School Campaign on GiveSendGo Today! Let's make this the year no teacher starts school feeling underfunded or overlooked. Statistics from the National Education Association (NEA) and The New York Times
GiveSendGo FeaturesHabit of Hope Challenge: Week 5 (Hope in Action — Hands and Feet of Faith)
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 25, 2025
We've officially crossed the halfway point of the Habit of Hope Challenge-and what an incredible journey it's been! Over the last four weeks, you've smiled first, shared your story, gathered friends to serve, and prayed for strangers. You've lived out what it means to be a bringer of hope-quietly, boldly, consistently. Now, in Week 5, it's time to put hope into motion in the most tangible way yet. This week is about action. Small acts, yes-but powerful ones that demonstrate love and shine light in everyday places. Whether you're giving something away, lifting a burden, or simply saying "thank you," you're becoming the hands and feet of Jesus right where you are. Not in the challenge yet? We've got you. Click HERE to join and receive: - A FREE Habit of Hope Devotional PDF - Daily text reminders with each day's hope mission Or text HOPE to 508-214-1197 to get just the texts! This Week's Mini Hope Missions You're becoming a hope-bringer-on purpose, with purpose. Day 29 - July 29 Leave Flowers for Someone Surprise someone with a flower-on a desk, a doorstep, or even a windshield. No flowers? Try origami or hand-drawn! Day 30 - July 30 Write a Thank-You Card Pick one person who's impacted your life and let them know through a handwritten thank-you. Don't wait for "someday"-send it now. A handwritten note can encourage in ways you mayl never fully see. Day 31 - July 31 Teach a Small Skill Share a tip or life hack-maybe a recipe, budgeting method, or Bible study tip. Even simple wisdom can bring strength and hope to someone else. Day 32 - August 1 Donate Clothes or Essentials Declutter with purpose. Donate to a shelter, a neighbor in need, or your church. Bonus: Share your go-to spot for donations! Day 33 - August 2 Post a Prayer Request Need some hope yourself? You're not alone. Head to the GiveSendGo Prayer Wall and let others lift you up. You carry enough. Let us help. Day 34 - August 3 Help a Stranger Carry a bag, open a door, or offer directions. Hope is often found in five-second moments of kindness. Never underestimate the impact of showing up. Day 35 - August 4 Start a Hope Jar Write down one hopeful thing-just one-and drop it in a jar. Add more each day. Want to inspire others? Share a photo of your jar and tag us! Want to Go Even Deeper? Post your hope missions and tag us @GiveSendGo Use #60DaysOfHope to join the larger conversation Invite a friend to join by texting HOPE to 508-214-1197 Visit GiveSendGo.com and pray or give to someone's campaign Let's keep going. Let's keep showing up. Let's keep making it a habit.
GiveSendGo FeaturesHabit of Hope Challenge: Week 4 (Hope That Multiplies — Light for the Wider World)
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 21, 2025
You've made it to Week 4 of the Habit of Hope Challenge-and we're so proud of you! Over the past three weeks, you've smiled at strangers, prayed quietly for others, reposted encouragement, and made space for hope in your everyday life. Now, that hope is beginning to shine outward in visible, intentional ways. Week 4 is about thinking bigger-going beyond your immediate circle and looking at how your kindness, prayers, and presence can ripple out into your wider world. Whether you're gathering a group to do good or simply sharing a recipe that's meaningful to you, these small acts carry more weight than you think. When done in faith, hope multiplies. Still haven't officially joined? Let's fix that! Click HERE to sign up and get: A FREE Habit of Hope Family Devotional PDF Daily text reminders with each mini hope mission Or just want the texts? Text HOPE to 508-214-1197 and we'll send you the mini hope missions daily! This Week's Mini Hope Missions: Wider reach. Bolder hope. Deeper light. Day 22 - July 22 Offer to Pray for a Stranger Yep, it's a stretch-but try it. Ask gently: "Can I pray for you today?" Bold love can shift the spiritual atmosphere. Day 23 - July 23 Share a Favorite Recipe Food = community. Post it online or text it to a friend with a quick story of why it matters to you. Stories stick when they're seasoned with meaning. Day 24 - July 24 Give Away Something New Buy something small just to give it away-a candle, book, or journal. Giving on purpose is powerful. Day 25 - July 25 Offer Encouragement in Public Honor someone out loud-in front of others. Acknowledge their kindness, strength, or faithfulness. Public praise plants seeds of encouragement. Day 26 - July 26 Gather a Group to Do Good It could be small: a park cleanup, prayer walk, or card-writing table at church. Just do it together. Hope becomes contagious when it's shared side-by-side. Day 27 - July 27 Email Us a Story of Hope Tell us about a moment when hope won in your life. A sentence, a paragraph, or a short video-we'd love to hear it. Email: press@givesendgo.com. We may feature you! Day 28 - July 28 Volunteer for One Hour One hour can change something. Serve in your church, community, or online-just give of yourself. Hope shows up when you do. Want to Be Featured? Post photos of you and your friends or family completing each week's hope missions and tag us @GiveSendGo! Use #60DaysOfHope. We'll be looking to share your posts on our pages! As your light shines wider this week, remember this: it's not about how many people you reach, it's about the love and intention behind each act. You are being used in ways you may never fully see-but heaven sees, and it matters. Here's to another week of sharing hope, one step at a time. We're cheering you on!
Fundraising TipsYour Stuff Called…It Wants a New Home with Someone in Need!
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 15, 2025
Americans spend an average of 2.5 days per year searching for things they've misplaced. Yep, that's nearly 60 hours of our lives spent hunting for wallets, remote controls, phone chargers - or that one pair of scissors everyone swears they didn't touch. We're surrounded by stuff - and more often than not, we forget what we even have. But today is Give Something Away Day, and it's the perfect opportunity to stop holding on to the extra... and start handing it out. Because when we give with intention, generosity becomes contagious. So what if, instead of frantically searching for what we've lost, we intentionally gave away something of value - to bless someone else? What If Giving Meant Sacrificing Something That Matters? Sure, you can give away that random mug you never use - and that's great! But what if you gave away something that mattered a little more? What if you gave away your favorite hoodie to someone who's always cold at church? What if you packed up your backup coffee maker (the nice one) and gave it to a single mom starting over? What if you bought something new intentionally for the purpose of giving it to someone in need? It's not about the size or the price tag. It's about the posture of your heart. Because when you give something that costs you a little, it means a whole lot more. "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." - 2 Corinthians 9:7 Radical Generosity Reflects a Radical God God didn't hold back what was most precious to Him - He gave us His Son. Jesus didn't withhold His love, His time, His healing, or even His life. He poured it all out freely, and He calls us to follow His example. "Freely you have received; freely give." - Matthew 10:8 Giving something away - especially something you love or value- is a powerful, countercultural act. It tells the world that people matter more than things. It says, "I'm not owned by my stuff. I use it to serve." And it reflects a Kingdom way of living: Open-handed. Trusting God for His provision. And radically generous. Give Something Away and Then Give Some More Want to take it a step further? Give not just some-thing, but some hope. Today's a great day to give to a campaign on GiveSendGo - maybe one that you've seen and thought, "I should do something about that." Whether it's $10, $50, or more, your gift might be the moment someone sees that God really is providing. And if you want to make that kind of impact every month, join our Giver Army for just $5/month. Your gift is combined with others in the Giver Army and distributed as grants to campaigns across the site - multiplying hope and helping meet real needs. You can also start your own GiveSendGo campaign to bless someone you know in need - a friend, a neighbor, a local ministry, or even a stranger. We've seen how one small act of obedience can create a ripple effect of generosity and life change. "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." - Hebrews 13:16 So, What Will You Give Away Today? Whether it's a bag of clothes, a brand-new backpack for a foster child, or a donation to a campaign that stirs your heart - don't let the day pass by without giving something away. Because every act of generosity echoes eternity. And the most meaningful gifts are the ones that cost a little, stretch your heart, and reflect the hope of Jesus.
GiveSendGo FeaturesHabit of Hope Challenge: Week 3 (Hope That Connects — Building Community Through Kindness)
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 14, 2025
We're already three weeks into the Habit of Hope Challenge-and wow, the ripple is growing! Week 1 reminded us that hope begins small. Week 2 challenged us to put that hope into motion. And now, in Week 3, we're focusing on connection. The kind of connection that reaches across tables, text threads, and sidewalks to say, "You're not alone." This week is all about intentional togetherness. Whether it's a prayer written for a friend or a treat shared with a neighbor, you'll be surprised how God uses these simple moments to knit hearts together in powerful ways. Still haven't joined the Habit of Hope challenge? Don't miss out! There's still time to JOIN! Click HERE to sign up and get: A FREE Habit of Hope Family Devotional PDF Daily text messages with each mini hope mission Just want the texts? Text HOPE to 508-214-1197 and you're in! This Week's Mini Hope Missions: Connection. Community. Kindness. Day 15 - July 15 Share a Positive Memory With Someone Call, text, or DM someone with a "Remember when...?" Joy grows when it's remembered together. Day 16 - July 16 Offer Help Without Being Asked Carry a bag. Hold a crying baby. Clean the breakroom. Step in before they ask. Noticing is powerful. Day 17 - July 17 Host a "Mini Moment" Meetup Grab coffee with a friend. Invite someone to walk. Meet at the park. One-on-one time builds deep encouragement. Day 18 - July 18 Write a Prayer for Someone Ask: "Can I pray for you this week?" Then actually write it down. You can even post it on the GiveSendGo Prayer Wall! Day 19 - July 19 Give to a GiveSendGo Campaign Pick a campaign-someone you know, or don't-and give. Big or small, it's the faith behind it that matters. Day 20 - July 20 Bring a Treat to Share Cookies at church. Fruit at work. Snacks for the UPS driver. Food is a language of love. Day 21 - July 21 Share a Verse That Sustains You Text it. Write it. Post it. Someone needs that reminder today. "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." - Hebrews 10:23 Here's How YOU Have Been Sharing Hope This Past Week! Week 2 was all about putting hope in motion-and you showed up! From texts sent to doors held open, your actions reminded the world that kindness matters. Here are just a few of the powerful ways you've been sharing hope: Angela on Day 7 (Repost Hope): "Sent one in a message!" Shara on Day 10 (Notice Someone's Effort): "I have been telling this to all my guests lately, because it's true!" S. on Day 13 (Give Something Away): "I offered over 100 people with food." Want to Do More This Week? Snap pics of your missions and tag us @GiveSendGo Use #60DaysOfHope to connect with others in the challenge Invite a friend to join! Just have them text HOPE to 508-214-1197 Visit GiveSendGo.com to find a campaign to pray for or give to You were made for connection. This week, let hope be the bridge that brings people closer to each other-and closer to Jesus. Week 3 is waiting. Let's go!
GiveSendGo FeaturesHabit of Hope Challenge: Week 2 (Hope in Motion — Small Acts with Big Ripples)
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 8, 2025
Week 1 is in the books-and what a powerful start! If you participated in even one mini hope mission, you were part of something meaningful. Smiles were shared. Prayers were whispered. Kind words were spoken. Hope started stirring-and we're just getting going. As we move into Week 2, we're putting hope in motion. That means stepping beyond ourselves, noticing others, and being a spark of kindness and encouragement in everyday places. These missions are still simple and doable-but they ripple further than you might expect. Still not officially in the challenge? You've got time! Click HERE to JOIN and get: A FREE Habit of Hope Family Devotional PDF Daily texts with each day's mini mission Or skip the extras and just get the texts by texting HOPE to 508-214-1197. Here's what's coming this week! This Week's Mini Hope Missions: Small acts. Big ripples. Day 8 - July 8 Send a Surprise Encouragement Think of someone who's been a little quiet lately. Send them a voice memo, email, or text just to let them know they're seen. "You crossed my mind" goes a long way. Day 9 - July 9 Leave a Note in the Wild Write a short, kind message and leave it somewhere random-on a park bench, library shelf, mirror, or table. Kindness gets creative today. Day 10 - July 10 Notice Someone's Effort Tell someone (your barista, a parent, coworker, or volunteer) that you see what they do-and it matters. Appreciation can change someone's whole day. Day 11 - July 11 Lift Someone Online Drop a thoughtful comment or encouragement on someone's post. Let your scroll today be full of support. Tag us @GiveSendGo and use #60DaysOfHope-we'd love to see it! Day 12 - July 12 Let Someone Go First At the store, in traffic, or in conversation-pause and give someone else the lead. Sometimes stepping back is the most generous move. Day 13 - July 13 Give Something Away Pass on a book, tool, jacket, or anything you're not using that could bless someone else. Share the story behind what you gave! Day 14 - July 14 Pray for a Stranger's GiveSendGo Campaign Head to GiveSendGo.com, find a campaign that touches your heart, and click "Pray." Write your prayer on the Prayer Wall if you feel led. Here's How YOU Shared Hope This Past Week! Your stories from Week 1 have been pouring in-and we're loving every single one! Here are just a few of the powerful, hope-filled moments you've shared so far: Heather on Day 1 (Smile at Someone): "Easy one! Who else did it?!" Chris on Day 2 (Text Someone "You Crossed My Mind"): "I love doing things like this-random acts of kindness and reaching out to others." Teresa also on Day 2: "Wow!! I love this idea. It's so encouraging!!" Janice on Day 3 (Pray for One + Post to the Prayer Wall): "I did both!!! Praise and a request. Thank you for doing this!!!" Donna on Day 3: "Praying for the flood... praying for you all." Andria on Day 4 (Gratitude): "I'm grateful my sister comes down to Texas every summer to help me out, especially since my husband passed. Yardwork and everything else gets overwhelming when it's just me. Today, I'm thankful for my sister!!" Eileen also on Day 4: "Our freedom! It wasn't free, but it's so cherished!" Kae on Day 5 (Hold the Door): "It's been a joke that we Michiganders will spot someone across the parking lot and wait to hold the door. Such a simple way to show honor to others!" Want to Do More This Week? Post photos of your mini hope missions and tag us @GiveSendGo Use the hashtag #60DaysOfHope to connect with others Invite a friend, family member, or co-worker to join the challenge with you! Browse campaigns on GiveSendGo and pray, donate, or leave a kind message Hope is in motion-and so are you. Let's keep showing up with hearts full of Jesus and actions that shine. Week 2 is ready... are you?
GiveSendGo FeaturesFireworks, Freedom, and Fundraising!
Posted by Alex Shipley on Jul 1, 2025
The smell of barbecue is in the air, fireworks are lighting up the night sky, and American flags are waving proudly from porches across the nation. It's the 4th of July - a day when we come together to celebrate the gift of freedom. And at GiveSendGo, we're celebrating all month long. July isn't just Independence Day - it's Freedom Month, and we're here for every minute of it. We're all about freedom - not just the kind that lets you light up sparklers and belt out patriotic songs, but the kind that empowers you to make a difference. What Does Freedom Mean? America was founded on the belief that all people are created equal and endowed with certain unalienable rights - life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And while we're not a perfect nation, we continue to move forward in that pursuit. One of the beautiful freedoms we celebrate today is the freedom of expression - the right to speak, share, believe, and act on your convictions. At GiveSendGo, we believe that freedom should extend to your ability to give and raise funds for the causes that matter to you - even when those causes are bold, unconventional, or unpopular. We don't shut down or censor campaigns just because someone disagrees with them. We're not in the business of playing judge and jury. Why? Because freedom means giving people the ability to choose - to choose what they believe in, to choose what they fundraise for, and to choose what they give to, even if we don't agree. Celebrate the 4th with More Than Fireworks The 4th of July wouldn't be complete without some good old-fashioned fun. So in the spirit of 4th of July and Freedom Month, here are a few ways to celebrate - not just with grilled hot dogs and flag-themed desserts (though we love those too), but with purpose. 1. Host a Backyard Giving Bash This year, make your 4th of July more than burgers and fireworks. Pick 3-4 GiveSendGo campaigns you care about and build your celebration around games that give. Here's how it works: Each guest brings some cash - $10, $25, or $50 - and together you pool all donations into one pot. Set up classic lawn games like ring toss, water balloon toss, cornhole, or even trivia. Each game station represents one of the campaigns you chose. For example: Ring Toss = Send Church Kids to Camp Cornhole = A Friend's Medical Bills Trivia = A Local Charity You Love As guests play the games, every win earns them a ticket they can drop into the jar of the campaign they want to support. At the end of the night, divide the total raised based on how many tickets each campaign received. It's fun. It's easy. It's a creative way to turn summer fun into real impact. 2. Start a campaign that celebrates freedom: Help a veteran. Fund a mission trip. Support a foster family. Or launch something meaningful and creative. Your freedom to start fundraising is just a click away. 3. Share a campaign you love: Use your voice and your platforms to amplify causes that matter. Generosity is contagious - share it. 4. Give to a campaign that inspires you: No matter how big or small, your giving is an act of freedom - choosing to be part of someone else's story. 5. Take a moment to pray: Pray for our country - for unity, wisdom, and revival. Pray for freedom to flourish in our government, in our homes, in our churches, and in our communities. And pray for the people fundraising on GiveSendGo - individuals and families facing real needs, trusting God to provide. We believe prayer is powerful - which is why we have a Prayer Wall where you can share your prayer requests or praises with us. You can also visit any campaign, click the "Pray Now" button, and leave a prayer or note of encouragement for someone fundraising. At GiveSendGo, Hope, Generosity, and Freedom Are the Foundation We're proud to be a platform that stands for freedom. Freedom of speech. Freedom of belief. Freedom to fundraise. Whether your campaign is about standing for truth, helping your community, launching your project, or raising support for someone in need, you belong here. And we're not just about dollars - we're about hope. Every campaign is an opportunity to share the hope of Jesus, the ultimate source of true freedom So This 4th of July... Grill something tasty. Laugh with friends. Watch the fireworks. But also: give generously, fundraise boldly, pray faithfully, and share freely. Because when we celebrate freedom, we're not just looking back - we're looking forward. And at GiveSendGo, we're building a future where help and hope go hand in hand. Happy 4th of July, and God bless America!
