Two years ago, Bess Langbein, the Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County was riding high after raising $606,000 in 24 hours in an inaugural event–the Great Give. Last year, the total raised was $675,467. This year, the goal was $750,000 and they shattered it with nearly $1 million raised.
Combined with the prior years, the Great Give have channeled over $2million into the budgets of local non-profits that continue to struggle with budget cuts and increased demand.
Residents of Anne Arundel County really came through as did many corporations who ponied up additional prizes which were distributed throughout the 24-hour online event.
While the goal is to raise money, the initiative also serves to introduce many to philanthropy which can come in many ways. It proves that many people coming together with small amounts can make a big difference. The average donation was $117 and there were hundreds of $15 donations–each as valuable as the next and each making a difference. As for next year? Who knows, maybe we can raise the bar and shoot for a million!
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