Saving Bobby's Farm: Matching Funds Turn $500 Into $1,000!

Photo copyright Bobby and Juan; all rights reserved.

Yes, it's true. We can magically transmogrify $500 into $1,000. And Then Bobby will be a quarter of the way to the $12,000 total he needs to save his farm and his furry and feathered family.

What sort of alchemy is this?  It's very easy, actually.

I have an anonymous donor who has pledged $500 — IF we can raise another $500 from other sources. It's a very common fundraising tool in the nonprofit world; I've administered challenge grant processes many times over the years for groups I've worked with, whether as a staffer or as a volunteer. It's a great way to drum up participation, show engagement with and belief in a cause, and magnify the results.

I'm going to set a deadline of 11:59 PM Sunday night (May 17th). Normally, it would be less, but because weekends entail slow Web traffic, I think it's a good compromise. The donor might even be willing to extend it if need be.

So here's the deal: We need to raise $500 — from any and all sources, in amounts large and small — between now and midnight Sunday night. It's a great way for people who can afford to give modest amounts to leverage their donation and magnify their impact. Got a spare $5? It's just become ten.

Provided, of course, that we can raise the initial $500. We do that, and Bobby gets $1,000. And then, he's a quarter of the way there.

Here's what you do: First, share the link to this post with everyone so they'll know how it works. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, GoogleGroups, e-mail, printed, word-of-mouth, you name it. Second, share the link to Bobby's GoFundMe page so they'll know where to donate. Third, when anyone gives via the GoFundMe page, in the space for a message, note that it should be added to the $500 challenge so that we can tabulate it as we go.

And finally, if you're still not convinced: Look at those adorable little baby goat faces. Who can say no to them?

I can't.

Chi miigwech.