Facebook Causes Adds Birthday Feature

Causes is a Facebook application that allows organizations to establish a “Cause” and receive support from people who “join the cause” and donate to it.  Network for Good, a reputable online credit card donation processing service processes the transactions.  Many organizations have raised significant funds (hundreds or thousands of dollars) towards general operating expenses and/or specific campaigns.

In addition to offering a very simple online donations offering, Causes taps into the viral power of social networking on Facebook.  When a user joins the cause, it is posted in the news feed of their friends, inviting others to become familiar with the cause and also support it.  With vast connections on Facebook (see image to the right),  your message can spread quickly, and far.

Causes has recently added a new feature for birthdays.  Users can pick a favorite cause, and use the application to set their Facebook status on their birthday, and perhaps the days leading up to it, encouraging friends to make a donation in lieu of cards or other gifts. Personally, I have made $10-$25 donations many times for friends’ birthdays, even when I may have not spent the time or money to send them a gift!

And hint:  my birthday is next week!  I’ve recently joined the board of CAJE, and welcome any donations to support their important work in providing professional development for Jewish educators.  Or, if you prefer, you’re always welcome to support Darim (also a non profit organization)!  Come check out Facebook Causes!

Learn more about Facebook Causes and it’s Birthday feature on Beth Kanter’s blog.