On Tuesday, GoFundMe announced its platform has helped secure over $2 billion for various causes and projects since its launch nearly six years ago.
The funding portal declared:
“Today, GoFundMe hit an amazing milestone: over 2 billion dollars have been raised for our users. We could not have done it without the help of our incredible community of giving, which time and time again has shown us what it means to step up and take action when others are in need.”
While celebrating, GoFundMe took a look back at notable campaigns that are examples of its platform’s spirit:
1. Father’s Campaign to Save His Daughter’s Life
“When Glenn’s 4-year-old daughter Eliza was diagnosed with a rare disease called Sanfilippo Syndrome, he was devastated. There had been a medical breakthrough at a hospital researching the disease, but not enough money to fund a clinical trial. Glenn decided to take matters into his own hands – he set out to raise 2 million dollars to make the trial happen, and give his daughter the chance for a cure. The O’Neill family’s story captured the hearts of thousands of people around the globe, and they were able to reach their goal.”
The campaign captured $2,026,130 by 36,240 people in 28 months.
2. Formerly Homeless Woman Accepted to Harvard
“Toni Morgan was once a high school dropout who was fighting each day to keep a roof over her head. Despite negative messages from her environment, she knew she was destined for something great and kept on following her dreams. Last April, Toni was accepted into a master’s program at Harvard University, where she plans to study to become a teacher. Thousands of people who were inspired by Toni’s story helped make her dream come true by donating to her tuition fund.”
The initiative secured $95,491 by 1,370 people in 11 months.
3. 9-Year-Old Builds Tiny Homes for the Homeless
“Hailey Fort is an amazing 9-year-old girl who spends her free time giving back to others. Using her masterful craftsman skills, she constructs tiny, portable homes, which she and her mother give out to members of the local homeless community. Hailey’s spirit and generosity have spread throughout the U.S., and she has created true impact with her ‘Hailey’s Harvest’ campaign.”
This campaign raised $54,091 by 1,169 people in 8 months.
4. Wave of Support for School Shooting Hero
“Chris Mintz, a father and a veteran, was at Umpqua Community College when a shooter opened fire. Chris was shot 7 times while trying to protect others, and needed extensive medical treatment. Well-wishers from around the world donated to Chris’ medical fund to show their support and appreciation for his incredible bravery.”
The project captured $819,144 by 24,155 people in 4 months.
5. Man with 21-Mile Walking Commute Gets a Car
“James Robertson used to walk an exhausting 21 miles to work every single day. Despite his trek, he was never late and has a perfect attendance record. A college student heard James’ story and wanted to help buy him a car. Little did he know that the outpouring of support would be so widespread, making James’ campaign one of the most successful ever on GoFundMe.”
The campaign secured $350,009 by 13,280 people in 12 months.