PHOTOS: Philanthropy during a public health crisis has shaped the history of human society

EBOLA AND A PHONE CONNECTION

When the Ebola virus exploded across West Africa in 2014, people around the world made relief donations using their mobile phones, establishing crowdfunding’s might to rally the world for a cause. Started by former wireless industry executives, the Mobile Giving Foundation (MGF) brought the technology and reach of mobile phones to registered charities as an innovative fundraising tool. MGF liaises between nonprofits, ASPs (Application Service Providers) and mobile carriers to allow non-profits to raise money. Making room for those who might only be able to make a small contribution, mobile donations have become a popular way to give and demonstrates the power of technology to enable philanthropy on a global scale.