How Do You Begin to Think About Giving?

Glaucoma Research Foundation needs the support of caring and generous individuals, but how do you choose the giving option that’s best for you and your lifestyle? Whether it’s donating a car or hosting a fundraising event, we’re here to help you come up with a method of support that is right for you.

The internet has made a lot of things easier and more fun, and charitable giving is no exception.

One especially good way to raise money online is through crowdfunding on platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo. It is a very effective way to raise money. In fact, it was estimated that worldwide over US $34 billion was raised this way in 2015.1,2 To capitalize on this growing trend, Glaucoma Research Foundation has a website that will allow you to create your own online fundraiser.

Running, walking, biking, and even walking the dog can all be used to raise funds for charity. For instance, the Charity Miles app not only keeps track of how far you walk, run, or bike, it can donate money to Glaucoma Research Foundation for every mile you complete. Longtime medical donor and GRF supporter Jerrold Keilson runs and bikes marathons to raise money for new research.

You also use your own celebrations and life events to raise funds. In fact, they are a great chance to give back. Instead of a bridal registry, for example, you can set up a charitable registry. Gifts for a bar mitzvah or a graduation can be a donation of cash or even a car. Explore ideas to raise funds for glaucoma research and education that will fit into your life.

To illustrate how charity can be personalized, let’s look at an example of effective charitable giving through Glaucoma Research Foundation.

You have a friend or family member who has recently been diagnosed with glaucoma. Because of this personal connection, you are invested in helping find a cure to this degenerative blinding disease. Your preliminary research also reveals that much progress has already been made, and just requires adequate funding to bring new treatment options to market.

Thanks to your research, you know that much progress has already been made in the area of glaucoma treatment, but that government funding can only go so far. Most of these studies need funding in order to bring new treatment options to market. This suggests that monetary donations might be a very effective contribution.

You get online and search for glaucoma-related charities. Because of their high standing in the community, you find Glaucoma Research Foundation. After some research, you discover that GRF has the following ratings (out of 100) on Charity Navigator:

These scores indicate an organization that has the financial health and strong ethics to make real change in the world. All you need do now is confirm it. You view their financial figures, as well as testimonials and up-to-date news about breakthrough therapies and treatments.

Once you’ve done this, the last step is to have a conversation with a member of the organization and discuss how to get involved. Now, you are well on your way to making a difference for your community and the world with the confidence of knowing your gifts will be used honestly and effectively.

We’re here to help: Contact Nancy M. Graydon,
Executive Director of Development, Glaucoma Research Foundation:

Phone: (415) 986-3162, ext. 231
or send us an Email.