In keeping up with global trends in non-government management and fundraising, I came upon an article from the BBC regarding street fund raisers in the United Kingdom.
In the UK, these fund raisers are often called "chuggers," a derogatory term abbreviated from "charity muggers."
Our country has its own problem with "chuggers." Generally, they can be seen outside a supermarket or discount store begging (that I firmly believe to be the most accurate term) for money. Sometimes, they're on the street corner, walking down the column of stopped cars shaking a bucket with some change to get attention.
As you'll note, I'm not a fan of this form of fund raising.
I'm not at all against fund raising for non-government organizations. I've done my fair share in collecting donations and raising money for many great causes and organizations. What I don't appreciate are the tactics employed by some to raise money which amounts to glorious panhandling.
I firmly believe that if you fund raise, you should try to offer something tangible in return for a donation. That is not panhandling. It's okay, for example, that I see Girl Scouts out in front of a store trying to sell their cookies. They are making an effort to offer you something in exchange for money... a very responsible form of social entrepreneurship. I definitely support that!
We need to take it upon ourselves to teach youth to earn the money they raise. So next time, think about that when you come upon that car wash or bake sale.
