So-called “rage giving” has grabbed headlines as Americans are facing increasingly tumultuous times. The Association of Fundraising Professionals defines the “rage giving” trend as “sparked by a divisive political moment, fueled by extensive media coverage, and characterized by a sudden, unexpected increase in donations and a strong emotional response in donors.”
For example, when the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision was released, Planned Parenthood reported a 20-fold increase in new supporters. NARAL Pro-Choice America saw a 1,400% increase in donations within 24 hours. On the flipside, the Susan B. Anthony List raised $20 million to oppose abortion—many multiples of the organization’s average donation rate.
For nonprofits, the downside of this adrenaline-fueled influx is that the donors are as short-lived as the news headlines; they drop off a donation to brag on social media that they’ve “done something,” but they don’t stay around once the news cycle has a new darling. These givers can’t be counted on for ongoing contributions or to back up their gifts with the time of volunteer support.
In contrast, the Bible calls givers to give cheerfully, motivated by love. We are to give generously (2 Corinthians 9:6-7), not reluctantly or under compulsion. Giving is an act of worship. Giving is not an opportunity to gain public accolades, as Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:3-4).
Hebrews 10:24 challenges us, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” A 2004 Harvard study found that people are hugely influenced by the people around them when it comes to giving, noting, “The individual’s participation decision, to give or not to give, is strongly influenced by the participation of peers.”
If you choose to participate in Faithful Give, in response to a call on your heart to elevate Godly causes, let that light shine–and tell your friends to check out these local organizations proclaiming Biblical values in our dark world.
Sources: https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/money-and-power/a40302634/rage-giving-philanthropy-trend/
