An earthquake and tsunami hits Japan.

Tornadoes strike the American south.

You want to do more than a texted donation but what to do? You’ve got limited time and limited money. People need help NOW and you want to act fast. Turn to your online community.

Everybody’s got an online community, whether it’s friends on Facebook or any type of themed blog. You have friends you’ve never met who share your interest in say, vintage fountain pens. You know they’re good, reasonable people who’ll want to help. Why not get creative and use your common interest as a fundraiser? Perhaps you have goods or services you could donate to an auction. Bento4Japan did just that. They rallied the bento enthusiasts on the internet and together raised $2500 in no time. There’s no reason why your calligraphy guild couldn’t do something similar. People want to give to people they trust, and when they can get it, get something in return. It’s just the way people are built. Plus, a fundraiser based around a common interest adds an element of levity and fun to the serious business of fundraising for people who are suffering. Get creative and see what you can accomplish!

Here are just a few ideas for fundraising within your niche:

1. Artists and Writers - Artists and writers dedicated to a cause can take commissions and donate part of the proceeds to the cause. Or, even more cost-effective and less time consuming, create a t-shirt, poster or other work of art and sell it on the web.

2. Clubs and Fraternities – Throw a party or host a bar night. Sell tickets or require a donation to get in to the event.

3. Enthusiasts and Collectors – Host a raffle or auction with something your community will cherish as the prize.

Your community is a community because you like and respect one another. Trade on that common interest when it comes time to help a good cause and your work will be halved!