Nonprofits will be evaluating the results of the text-based Haiti relief fundraising initiative to determine if texting strategies make sense for their organizations. While texting donations is not new, it had not been seen on such a massive scale until the Haiti relief effort. The growing use of social media and the increased familiarity with texting have contributed to the dramatic results of the campaign.

The American Red Cross has had enormous success with its text message campaign – more than $31 million and counting. Donors were asked to text “HAITI” to a specific number and $10 would be added to their mobile phone bill and then forwarded to the Red Cross. The success of the Haiti initiative dwarfs the result of texting campaigns in 2008 to support the Red Cross’s response to Hurricane Gustav in the Atlantic and Caribbean areas when $250,000 was raised.

Donors must use caution when evaluating requests for any donation, including a donation submitted via text. Be certain that you know the organization and check the validity of the request. Sadly, some scam artists use texting channels to collect funds for fraudulent purposes. Always ask questions and check out the legitimacy of the group and the group’s support of the texting campaign. Even if a campaign is legitimate, be aware that mobile carriers may apply various data and texting charges for the transaction.

For more advice on sending donations via text, visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/TextingDonations