How can you give anonymously or publicly to maximize impact?

1 Why give anonymously?

Giving anonymously can have several benefits, such as protecting your privacy, avoiding unwanted solicitations, reducing social pressure, and focusing on the impact rather than the recognition. However, giving anonymously also has some drawbacks, such as missing out on tax deductions, feedback, and accountability. To give anonymously, you can use platforms and intermediaries that allow you to hide your identity or use a pseudonym, such as DonorsChoose, Giving What We Can, or Donor-Advised Funds. You can also research the charity's privacy policy and opt out of any public lists or communications.

2 Why give publicly?

Giving publicly can have several benefits, such as inspiring others, creating a culture of generosity, building trust and credibility, and enhancing your reputation and network. However, giving publicly also has some drawbacks, such as exposing yourself to criticism, scrutiny, and fraud, creating expectations and obligations, and distracting from the cause or the beneficiaries. To give publicly, you can use platforms and channels that allow you to share your donations and stories, such as GoFundMe, Facebook, or Giving Tuesday. You can also join or create communities and movements that align with your values and goals, such as Effective Altruism, Pledge 1%, or The Giving Pledge.

3 How to choose effective charities?

Whether you give anonymously or publicly, you want to make sure that your donations are going to the most effective charities that can create the most positive change in the world. However, choosing effective charities can be challenging and time-consuming, as there are many factors and criteria to consider, such as the problem, the solution, the evidence, the cost-effectiveness, the transparency, and the room for more funding. To choose effective charities, you can use resources and recommendations from organizations that evaluate and compare charities based on rigorous research and analysis, such as GiveWell, Animal Charity Evaluators, or The Life You Can Save.

4 How to leverage your social network and influence?

Whether you give anonymously or publicly, you can leverage your social network and influence to amplify your impact and encourage others to give as well. However, leveraging your social network and influence can be tricky and delicate, as you need to balance your enthusiasm and passion with respect and sensitivity, and avoid being seen as boastful, preachy, or manipulative. To leverage your social network and influence, you can use strategies and techniques such as storytelling, matching, peer pressure, social proof, reciprocity, and nudging. You can also use tools and platforms such as Giving Circles, Fundraisers, or Influencer Marketing.

5 How to avoid common pitfalls and scams?

Whether you give anonymously or publicly, you want to avoid common pitfalls and scams that can undermine your impact and harm your reputation. However, avoiding common pitfalls and scams can be difficult and stressful, as you need to be vigilant and skeptical, and verify the legitimacy and credibility of the charities and the platforms you use. To avoid common pitfalls and scams, you can use tips and best practices such as checking the charity's registration, rating, and financial reports, reading the fine print and the terms and conditions, using secure and reliable payment methods, and reporting any suspicious or fraudulent activity.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?