The Foundation Fighting Blindness, a global leader in research for blinding retinal diseases, has announced a significant expansion of its donation platforms. In partnership with The Giving Block, the Foundation now accepts donor-advised funds (DAFs) and stock donations, while also introducing cryptocurrency as a donation method. This move aims to simplify the process for donors and attract new contributors worldwide.
Jeff Klaas, the chief strategy and innovation officer at the Foundation, said the expansion reflects the organisation’s commitment to embracing modern technologies. “By enhancing our giving platforms, we are making it easier for donors to support our research through donor-advised funds, stock donations, and now cryptocurrency. Our partnership with The Giving Block allows us to offer a seamless experience for supporters around the world who share our mission to find treatments and cures for blinding diseases.”
The expansion arrives at a crucial time as the Foundation continues its efforts to find treatments for conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, Usher syndrome, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital amaurosis, and age-related macular degeneration.
Accessible Giving Platforms
The partnership with The Giving Block introduces a new widget that allows donors to connect directly to their accounts, making the donation process easier and more secure. The widget offers users a streamlined way to make contributions, including via DAFs and stock donations. This new tool provides a tax-efficient route for supporters to contribute to cutting-edge research, with potential benefits such as capital gains tax exemption.
Speaking on the new capabilities, Klaas added: “This expansion not only supports our current donors by making the process more accessible, but it also helps us reach new donors globally, amplifying our impact.”
Embracing Cryptocurrency Donations
In a move towards future-proofing philanthropic giving, the Foundation now accepts a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and USD Coin (USDC). As cryptocurrency continues to grow in popularity, its inclusion allows the Foundation to tap into a new pool of potential donors. Additionally, cryptocurrency donations may offer tax benefits for donors, including exemptions from capital gains tax.
Cryptocurrency is classified as property by the IRS, meaning that donations made in this form may qualify for significant tax advantages, further incentivising contributions.
Partnership with The Giving Block
The collaboration with The Giving Block, a leader in equipping nonprofits with tools for modern fundraising, has allowed the Foundation to integrate these new giving options into its platform seamlessly. The user-friendly interface is designed to make the donation process straightforward, secure, and accessible for all supporters.
To learn more or to make a donation via cryptocurrency, DAFs, or stocks, donors can visit the Foundation’s website. The new initiative aims to bolster the Foundation’s work in advancing research for blinding diseases while offering supporters a range of ways to contribute. Visit FightingBlindness.org for more information.