A big thanks to all of you who participated in our most recent request for feedback. We were overwhelmed with responses and really wish we could have included you all! It was wonderful to hear your stories and learn more about your experience with GoFundMe. Every day you’re inspiring other people to make a difference in their own lives – and in the lives of others. You are amazing!
Interested in learning more about GoFundMe? Take the tour, browse our categories or sign-up now!
GoFundMe user Desiree Sullivan recently got our attention with her fantastic video. Including a video on your GoFundMe page can be much more effective than a standard photo. Desiree was nice enough to share some video tips below. If you find the article useful, be sure to stop by Desiree’s GoFundMe page to say thanks!
Hello, my name is Desiree Sullivan. I was accepted into my dream school, Biola University, but I don’t have enough money to pay tuition. So I made this video to help raise funds here , and I guess the people at GoFundMe liked it, since they asked me to write a post about it. So here I am!
GoFundMe is a platform geared towards helping others raise money with tools to spread your message. If you’re here on GoFundMe, it means you need other people to take notice of a cause. So how do you get help? How do you communicate your message?
You can write about your cause, and stick it on a blog. You can tell people about it through word of mouth. You can tweet about it, and hope your tag trends. All of these are effective tools, but sometimes people don’t have time to read a post, or forgot the title of your project and didn’t write it down, or maybe 180 characters doesn’t quite explain everything. Videos are fast, they are both visual and audible, and maybe you can even get a song stuck in somebody’s head.
I need help for my cause and I’m trying to reach as many people as possible. Pictures are worth a thousand words, right? A video has 60 frames, still images, per second. That’s a lot of potential for great impact!
Still, let’s face it: not everyone knows how to make a video or where to start. These are the steps I took, and maybe they’ll help you share your own message. Hopefully, they’ll make the process go smoothly, because as I discovered, there’s quite a bit that goes into film-making.
Step 1: HAVE YOUR SCRIPT
I can’t emphasize this enough! What you want to say should drive your project and the means with which you present it.
The whole point of making a video is to send a message to the person on the other end watching it. So you need to know what you want to say before you even touch a camera. The audience needs to know what they have to do to help you and how to do it. In short: introduce the cause, present the problem, give a solution, remind the audience of the personal aspect, and end with a call to action.
My own script was pretty simple.
I first introduced myself and told the audience a little about my dream. Basically, my goal was to get viewers to care about my case, to trust me, and to like me. So providing background information like that was important in making things personal, but I also wanted to provide the pertinent information in a fun way.
My case is this: I want to attend my dream school, but I don’t have enough money to pay for tuition. I laid out the numbers, explained what was what, and I showed my solution. My goal was to explain what I needed help with, but to keep people from scratching their heads, thinking, “Well what do you want me to do about it?” I think the most important thing though is that I showed what I was going to do with the money. I want people to rest assure that I’m trustworthy and that I’m not going to use their donations irresponsibly.
Step 2: Plan it out
There are infinite ways to present a cause!
I happened across a video that inspired me, and I drew inspiration from it. Don’t think that the way I did my video is the only one that works, or would even work for your particular cause.
If you don’t feel like you’re a natural visionary, do research. Browse YouTube’s featured section, or check out other popular videos. Take notes from those that impacted you the most. I can’t tell you how to make your project, because only you have the creativity and knowledge to present your cause!
Step 3: Equipment
You finally get to pick up a camera! But… which camera?
There are many cameras available, but don’t worry; you don’t need to sell a kidney to make a video. There are tons of great camcorders that are reasonably priced! The camcorder that I used for my video was a Kodak Zi8 (you could even use a smart phone).
Other than that, I highly recommend investing in a tripod. Even really relaxed people sway a little bit when standing still, and unless your camcorder has stabilization, camcorders and cameras are typically sensitive to the slightest of movements which can be kind of dizzying to watch.
Step 4: Shooting the Video
Shoot your video lots of times!
No, really. Even if you get it right once, do it again at another angle or in a different setting. You’ll find that the most interesting videos of people talking are the ones that change angles, show different perspectives, different expressions, etc. News networks, movies, and ads do it! Not only does it make things more interesting but you’ll find that sometimes that one shot that you thought went really well…didn’t.
Trust me on this. It helps if you have a lot of video to work with so you don’t have to panic and reshoot. So shoot lots of times, and don’t expect everything to go perfectly every shoot.
Second, don’t have your subject centered in your video all the time. Instead have them to the side of the video. There are two concepts that I am referring to that you can Wikipedia in your spare time: the rule of thirds, and asymmetry. Without going into too much detail, by placing your subjects to the side and having them be the focal point (the dominant thing) in the shot it makes your subject more interesting to look at. If you watch closely, especially in photography, the really interesting images and videos have the focal point to the side typically. This also works well when you splice up your footage (which I’ll be getting to later), because it provides variety from scene to scene.
Finally, keep your video short as possible. People start to get antsy after watching a video for longer than five minutes. My personal recommendation is to shoot for the 2-5 minute range. Your video should tell the most important facts, and everything else can be listed on your GoFundMe page.
Step 5: Editing the Video
No, you’re not done yet. Actually, this is perhaps the most important step. Sometimes, it’s the most time-consuming one. How you edit the video is up to you, but if you choose to include music, use the music’s own tempo as a guide to editing your own video.
So how do you even edit a video? I used Adobe Premiere to edit mine. I realize not everyone has that program or can afford it but there are several options out there. Several that are easily available and affordable are:
As I was editing my video, I selected the shots based on a basic criteria:
The signs that I used the video I made in Adobe InDesign. Again, I know not everyone has that program or can afford it so here are some alternatives:
The thing with all the software I just mentioned is that there can be a bit of a learning curve. These programs generally come with intro guides, and there are so many helpful tutorials out there that Google can put you in touch with, so I’ll leave the technical advice to the experts.
A couple things I noted when making my own video though: music helps the viewer engage with the video. Music is optional, but it helps make a more impactful video.
Just remember that different types of music incite different moods and feelings that the audience will have towards the video. Movies are a perfect example of this! For instance you can tell the difference between an Epic movie and a Horror flick just by listening to the music. Therefore, choose your music wisely so that it complements your cause, your video and your message. If you use a voiceover take care that the music doesn’t overpower it
Don’t be afraid to take risks, and save your work frequently!
Hopefully, my video will inspire other projects, and inspire other people. I’m just a student with access to a camera and the internet, and what I’ve learned is mostly stuff that I’ve picked up through the trial-and error process (with a few classes bundled in).
Still, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, and GoFundMe liked my video enough to ask me to write this post for you guys, if that’s saying anything (thank you!!! You guys rock!). My experience with GoFundMe has been just incredible. My campaign is still young and I may not be as close to my goal as I would like at this moment, but my video has granted me an audience beyond just a webpage. I am ever more a firm believer in the power of mixed media! Social media is crazy powerful. Lack of experience isn’t really a good enough reason to not try every avenue in getting your message across.
And don’t be shy. Your cause needs you to step out of your comfort zone. Good luck!
-Desiree
A big thanks to our friends over at ExplanationVideos.com for helping us with our latest video below. Let us know what you think in the comments below…
Did you notice those new buttons at the top of your GoFundMe Dashboard today? Have a look below to learn more about each button:
From left to right…
Orange Check Button:
Sharing frequent, interesting Update Messages with your supporters is one of the best ways to attract additional donations. Now you can post an update from just about anywhere by clicking the orange button.
Green Dollar Button:
The Withdraw button is available for US users only who choose to receive payments using WePay. Clicking this button allows you to review your balance and view the status of your prior withdrawals! International users can still visit their PayPal accounts to access their money.
Question Mark Button:
Clicking this button will take you to our Frequently Asked Questions page where you’ll also have access to our Contact form and community Help Center.
Silhouette Button:
Access your Account Settings and Sign Out link by clicking this button. The Account Settings area allows you to manage your email, password and social media accounts like Facebook & Twitter.
Big news – you can now raise money for your favorite US charity on GoFundMe. Turn your next birthday, road race or any other event into a charity fundraiser!
Current users can access this feature by clicking the ‘My Pages’ tab, then choosing ‘Add a New Page’.
New users can simply select a charity, invite others and collect donations. Each and every donation made to your page is securely processed and automatically delivered to your selected charity.
We created the diagram below to show you exactly how it all works:
At GoFundMe we’re continually amazed by the generosity of friends, families & communities who come together to support one another. In just the last few weeks, more and more of your stories have been featured in local & national media. Below are just a few of the amazing stories happening on GoFundMe…
Family turns to internet to help lift burden of medical bills
by FoxNews Channel 31, Denver, CO
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/OwenMurray
Local Fundraisers Use Power of Social Media
by ABC News, Channel 12, Medford, OR
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/cgttg
Source:
http://kdrv.com/page/236221
The Cost Of Spastic Cerebral Palsy. One Patients Fight To Pay For A Wheelchair
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/bmmic
Sources:
http://www.inquisitr.com/174564/spastic-cerebral-palsy-the-fight-for-a-wheelchair/
http://beta.twit.tv/show/the-social-hour/41
A Fort Collins man makes a remarkable recovery…
by KWGN Channel 2, Colorado
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/chasescottgleason
U.S. Veteran set for transatlantic row to benefit Brighton’s Community Rowing, Inc.
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/transatlantic-row
Salmon Activist Draws Outpouring of Public Cash for Legal Battle
by Damien Gillis
If money talks, then the geyser of financial support that has sprung in the past few days for salmon activist Don Staniford’s legal defense speaks volumes.
Staniford – who has been described by aquaculture trade media as salmon farming’s “public enemy number one” – is being sued by the world’s second largest farmed salmon producer, Oslo-based Cermaq (operating as Mainstream in Canada), for defamation.
The trial, expected to run 20 days, begins today at the BC Supreme Court in Vancouver.
The company, whose biggest shareholder is the Norwegian Government, may have been banking on Staniford submitting to its demands out of court due to a lack of funds to pursue the case – but any chance of that happening disappeared over the past weekend when the activist raised over $20,000 in public donations for his legal battle. Continue Reading
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/donstaniford
Source:
http://www.pacificfreepress.com/news/1/10694-salmon-and-goliath-the-case-of-don-staniford.html
Last April, German Cadenas received some good news from Arizona State University.
by Daniel Gonzalez, USA Today
Out of 125 applicants, Cadenas was one of seven accepted into a Ph.D. program in psychology. But paying for the program was even more challenging for Cadenas than a typical student. Because Cadenas, 24, a native of Venezuela, is an illegal immigrant, he must pay out-of-state tuition, which is twice as expensive as in-state rates. The same 5-year-old Arizona law that imposed out-of-state tuition rates also bars undocumented students from receiving any taxpayer-funded financial aid.
Undeterred, he created a Web page dubbed “German. Chasing his Dream!” on gofundme.com, a fundraising site. He started a blog chronicling his academic achievements to draw in more donations. And he began soliciting money on YouTube and on his Facebook page, which lists 942 friends… Continue Reading
Donate:
http://www.gofundme.com/germansdream
Source:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/story/2011-09-13/college-immigrant-funding/50383374/1
With the release of our new homepage, today marks the beginning of many new improvements to GoFundMe. Fueled by your feedback, our team has been working hard to deliver the best experience possible for GoFundMe users.
Over the next few weeks, you’ll continue to notice shiny new upgrades to the site. These improvements will help make GoFundMe even more effective – and easier to use for both you and your supporters. Of course, we’ll keep you informed about any important announcements that will help you raise money online.
If you’re new to the site, visit the Fundraising Ideas area to see how other people use GoFundMe. You can also donate online to other causes that interest you.
As always, you can contact us with any questions or feedback and we’ll get back to you right away.
Thank You!
-The GoFundMe Team
Below is a summary of GoFundMe causes in the news for July 2011.
Atlanta Post: June 30, 2011
Crowdsourcing Craze: Black Artists & Businesses Getting Funded by Friends
“The old way of getting money is dead,” declares LaShunda Davis, owner of ‘Cure Beauty Bar nestled in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood. “Knowing that banks were totally not giving out loans,” Davis continues, she opted to make her pitch on GoFundMe to acquire more capital. “My thought was to get people and friends involved.”
Support this cause >>
The Suburbanite: July 8, 2011
A luau to benefit Springfield resident Judi Sammons
“The goal is to raise funds to help offset the medical expenses,” said her sister, Dee Rummel. “We are so blessed to have such wonderful support from family, friends and the community,” she said. To follow Judi’s progress visit www.gofundme.com and enter “help Judi beat breast cancer” in the search box. This link was set up by her daughter, to update others on Judi’s journey.
Support this cause >>
Reno Gazette Journal: July 10, 2011
Erin Breen: On the journey of a lifetime
He’s walking from San Diego to Maine to bring awareness to breast cancer and the importance of early detection. And he’s taking photographs and blogging about everything he sees along the way. By the way, you can follow Arthur on his journey at arthurhitchcock.tumblr.com, and you can help fund his supply of water and walking shoes at www.gofundme.com/californiatomaine
Support this cause >>
Canton Rep: July 15, 2011
Jazzer Seeks Donations
“People have been asking me for a Christmas album for years, and I have yet to deliver. I believe with your help, I can get this accomplished and have a top-notch project (released by) November 2011,” he says. “Every little bit helps.” To make a donation, visit www.gofundme.com/2011-Christmas-album. Earlier this year, both Ryan Humbert and Lovedrug sought support from fans to finance their next albums.
Support this cause >>
Victorville Daily Press: July 15, 2011
Family rebuilds after fire
Richard Pipkin and his family are still sifting through the rubble that used to be his mother’s home. People in the community have stepped up to help the family and Pipkin said they are very grateful to them. A friend of Pipkin’s sister has set up an account on www.GoFundMe.com, a site that allows people to raise money for various causes and needs. To make a donation, visit the site and search for Pipkin.
Support this cause >>
Parker Chronicle: July 15, 2011
Parker teen raising money for global program
Kayla Lehne is on a mission to earn $30,000 for a Global Gap program called Projects Abroad. The 27-week volunteer program is designed for high school graduates spending a year before attending college to explore the world and learn about global issues while helping with volunteer projects. People can donate money online at http://funds.gofundme.com/2ftv0
Support this cause >>
The Courier: July 18, 2011
Police to reassess search for Jason Richards
Police maintain the investigation into the father-of-two’s disappearance remains ongoing, despite the search being suspended on Friday. Friends back in Ballarat have established an online search fund so the team in the outback can afford accommodation, food and fuel as they search for their missing loved one. To donate to the search fund, visit www.gofundme.com/68cvs
Support this cause >>
The GoFundMe Team recently heard from former US Marine Tyler Hamby about his Wounded Warrior Project donation page.
When I decided to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. I debated building my own website or looking for a web site ready to go. After searching several web site companies, I decided on going with GoFundMe. They had reasonable fees unlike some of the sites I looked at. The site offered more flexibility and creative tools than I could do creating my own my website. Setting up my personal site as well as connecting to my Facebook and email account was incredibly easy.
I planned on running the half marathon and I wanted to raise some money for a great cause. With GoFundMe, I was able to spend time on my running and not sitting behind the computer all day. It took me about 20 minutes to complete my website and have it posted. I immediately emailed my friends and family and requested they go to the site. Within an hour of posting my site I received my first donation. That was a good feeling but the positive encouragement I received from friends and family were incredible.
I sent out an update requesting my friends and family forward my link to their friends. A couple did and I continued making that request over several days. Before long, I noticed my total site hits nearly doubled. As of this writing, I am half way to my goal and I’m confident I will reach my target. I plan to continue with the updates on Faceook as well as asking a couple friends I know who own a website to post my link on their site. I started doing updates regarding the run I did that day. However, I think posting interesting information about my cause such as talking about a Marine who recently received help from the Wounded Warrior Project is a better way to go. I want people to see first hand how the money they are donating is being spent. I’ve also learned to directly ask for a donation with each update posting or email. Prior to doing that I noticed an increase in hits to my website but not many donations. Once I started asking point-blank for a donation, I got a better response.
With GoFundMe it makes raising money for something important, easy. I’m looking forward to reaching my goal and since I’m halfway there with over two months to go, I’m feeling really confident I’ll make the goal. For those of you who have not looked at my site, I want to share one paragraph from my message.
“…With so many young Marines coming home with life changing injuries, how can we as free American citizens not be there for them? For those who know me, I don’t like to run unless it is to the fridge or after the ice cream truck. I have even been known to run to the bathroom until the dinner dishes have been done. With that said I have been blessed with two healthy legs and have the ability to raise money for those who cannot. I am asking you for a donation in the amount you would like to give. I am thankful for any amount.”
Thank you and God Bless you.
Tyler Hamby
http://www.gofundme.com/HYMN-Project
There’s a new way to put money in your pocket.
That’s right – the team behind GoFundMe is launching a new site that helps people earn money doing what they love. Check it out >>
We made it really easy for people to offer their skills & services to the World – and get paid! It’s called Paygr (pronounced, ‘pager’) and it might just be the next big thing.
Just think – if you have something to offer, then someone else is probably willing to pay you for it. You just haven’t met them yet : )
From music lessons and math tutoring to dog walking and car repair, Paygr helps interested Buyers discover talented Sellers like you.
Want to know the best part? We made it incredibly easy to use. Accepting payments, attracting customers and communicating with Buyers is all built-in… you just need to sign-up, customize your Seller Page and take good care of your customers.
Ready to get started?
Visit the page below to learn more and create your account. Signing up is Free:
Sign Up Now >>
Want more information about buying & selling on Paygr? Check out our help section.
Thank you!
-The GoFundMe Team
(and Team Paygr too)
p.s. Don’t worry, GoFundMe and our customer support team is here to stay!
Launched on May 10, 2010, GoFundMe is a do-it-yourself online fundraising service that has helped thousands of people raise millions of dollars in online donations for the fundraising ideas that matter to them most. GoFundMe allows regular people to accomplish extraordinary things with easy-to-use personal donation websites. From exciting life events like weddings & graduations to challenging circumstances like accidents & illnesses, the GoFundMe fundraising software remains one of the best ways to raise money online.
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