During the holiday season, you probably find yourself spending a lot, but it's also a time when many choose to give.
GoFundMe is a popular website where users can start a fundraising campaign, or donate to a cause of their choice.
Our Madison Cavalchire found out how the site works and how the company makes sure your dollars are going to the right place.
“The whole tire just fell off the vehicle,” said Sheldon Hudlin, owner of 1st Class Cleaning Service in Warner Robins.
He began a GoFundMe campaign to get his van fixed so he could continue business after it stopped working.
With more than 25 million donors, GoFundMe has become a popular platform.
“So now that the GoFundMe has been doing very well, I was able to get the van fixed. It's back on the road,” exclaimed Hudlin.
You can start your own GoFundMe for a cause of your choice, or set one up for someone in need.
When someone makes a donation, GoFundMe says it securely stores the payment until you or your beneficiary is ready to request withdrawal via electronic bank transfer.
While it's free to create a campaign, GoFundMe says it will automatically deduct a fee.
“To take out just a couple of cents, but [still] be able to have that much reach, it’s well worth it,” said Hudlin.
So how do you know the person who you're donating to is really who they say they are?
“The more information you can give people, the more credibility you have,” said Hudlin. “I was like, you know I'm asking for help for a broken vehicle, let me show them it's broken.”
GoFundMe can't always verify a campaign, but they do offer a guarantee. If there's any evidence of misuse or deception, you are eligible for a refund up to $1,000.
If you're a beneficiary and your campaign organizer fails to deliver your funds, GoFundMe says they'll cover the amount up to $25,000.
“You click a button and in 1-2 business days, the money is in your account,” said Hudlin.
However you choose to donate this season, the click of a button can make all the difference.