Area nonprofits aim to raise $3.5 million during Give More 24!

Vancouver musician Kevin Coloso plays a solo set during Concerts and Causes, an online broadcast that amplifies local music and giving during Give More 24! Photo courtesy Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington launched the event in 2013 to build broader support for local causes and build fundraising capacity for area nonprofits

VANCOUVER — More than 200 nonprofits have teamed up to raise funds and awareness during Give More 24! Collectively, the group aims to raise $3.5 million during the 24-hour, online giving marathon, which is scheduled for Thu., Sept. 22.

The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington launched the event in 2013 to build broader support for local causes and build fundraising capacity for area nonprofits. President Matt Morton said the event has seen consistent growth thanks to the generosity of local neighbors and communities who raised more than $3.3 million for 207 nonprofits operating in Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania Counties last year.

The Giving Late Show with Ryan Philbrook broadcasts online to wrap up the giving day with some laughs, games and local talent. Photo courtesy Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

“Generosity has always been one of our region’s greatest strengths, and we’re hoping the momentum donors and nonprofits have created through Give More 24! will continue this year,” Morton said. “We know times are getting tougher for many, which is precisely when we need to show up for one another and give more as a community.”

The hub for giving during the event is GiveMore24.org, which allows people to find, support and celebrate participating nonprofits. Cause categories allow donors to find new and established nonprofits addressing causes that range from animals and the arts to veterans and youth development. Starting at midnight on Sept. 22, supporters can make donations directly to their favorite causes and watch the giving add up in real-time. To cheer on the nonprofits, donors can also spread the word on social media with the click of a button.

Students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School celebrated the giving day by creating custom chalk art on campus. Photo courtesy of Christie Walker. Photo courtesy Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

In addition, the website also helps people tap into their networks for greater impact. Supporters can start a personal fundraiser for their favorite charity and rally their friends and family around the cause. Businesses can also participate by launching workplace giving campaigns with tools and resources provided on the website. Morton said every gift has the potential to “give more” on this day thanks to more than $800,0000 in matching funds and nonprofit prizes that have been provided by generous donors and sponsors.

“Generosity happens in our communities every day, but this is a day when we can see that collective tide of goodwill rising,” Morton said. “It’s important because we need to celebrate the contributions we make — nonprofits and neighbors alike — and the impact our giving creates.”

Give More 24! is supported by a generous group of sponsors. Notable support comes from Presenting Sponsor, Davidson & Associates Insurance representing PEMCO Insurance. Further financial support is provided by Columbia Bank and Blue Blazes.

About the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

Established in 1984, the Community Foundation helps southwest Washingtonians build a more vibrant community by fostering charitable giving and community engagement. The Foundation holds more than 380 distinct charitable funds, which are actively invested to generate growth and income for granting purposes. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, the Community Foundation offers benefits and services to donors, nonprofits and the community at large. Learn more at cfsww.org.

Information provided by Community Foundation for Southwest Washington.