"Extractive Empathy" & The Hidden Costs of Donation-Based Crowdfunding Platforms 🤫 (news)

Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast

Exploring 'Extractive Empathy' and the Dynamics of Nonprofit Fundraising

In this episode of the Nonprofit News Feed, hosts George Weiner, Chief Whaler of Whole Whale, and Nick Azulay, Digital Strategist at Whole Whale, dive into the intricacies of nonprofit news with a focus on the concept of "extractive empathy." The episode begins with a discussion on the palpable anticipation in the social impact space surrounding upcoming elections, which could influence strategic planning and decision-making.

A key highlight of the episode is the introduction of "extractive empathy," a term coined by Whole Whale to describe the use of emotionally charged personal narratives to drive donations on crowdfunding platforms. This approach, while effective in generating immediate financial support, often overlooks long-term community needs and sustainable solutions. The conversation references a study showing that individuals with higher incomes raise more funds due to expansive social networks, emphasizing the imbalance in crowdfunding dynamics.

The hosts critique this approach by pointing out how platforms like GoFundMe prioritize individual stories over systemic change, which can exacerbate inequities. They suggest strategies to mitigate these issues, such as implementing an "overflow" system where excess funds beyond a set goal are directed to designated charities.

In the latter part of the episode, George and Nick discuss a new report on U.S. charitable giving trends, highlighting an increase in donations from both individuals and institutions. However, they note that a small percentage of donors account for a significant portion of total donations, underscoring the growing influence of high-net-worth individuals in philanthropy.

The episode wraps up with a feel-good story about an Austin-based nonprofit providing free English lessons to Afghan refugee women, showcasing grassroots efforts to support displaced communities. Despite the heavy topics, the hosts inject humor and encourage listeners to engage with these critical discussions.

Key Takeaways:

• "Extractive empathy" highlights the challenges of relying on emotional narratives for fundraising, which can divert attention from systemic solutions.
• The increasing role of wealthy donors in philanthropy necessitates tailored strategies to engage high-net-worth individuals effectively.
• Grassroots initiatives, like language classes for refugees, play a vital role in community support and integration.

Reflective Thought: As the nonprofit sector navigates these complex dynamics, it's crucial to balance immediate fundraising needs with long-term, equitable solutions that address root causes rather than symptoms.