Giving Compass' Take:

• Tom Popomaronis explains that in the age of social giving, the emergence of online platforms and programs increases the number of ways people can participate in charitable giving. 

• How can online platforms be oriented around impact? How can the potential drawbacks of online giving be avoided? 

• Read more about what crowdfunding means for charitable giving.

You've probably noticed a new feature on Facebook during the last year. Instead of just being informed when it's someone's birthday, you may now be getting invitations to donate to a charitable cause on their behalf.

It's the evolution of social giving, and it's being driven by technology. Facebook's donation platform is one example.
Another obvious one is the fundraising website GoFundMe and its numerous counterparts. Some people aren't convinced of the social utility in these platforms. It's certainly true that there are wrinkles to be ironed out--but that's how evolution works.

Yet another example is the social-impact startup Givebox, which provides a service designed to increase the fundraising power of fledgling non-profit organizations. Whereas similar platforms cut deeply into donation money with transaction and subscription fees, Givebox passes donor money directly to the non-profits.

Promoting social welfare, supporting causes and communities that we believe in, and feeling confident about where the money goes are all becoming easier, thanks to accessible innovations that empower us to do so.

Read the full article about the age of social giving by Tom Popomaronis at Inc.