HelpArgentina is a nonprofit that allows international donors to identify and support high impact nonprofits in Argentina.
Our goal is to strengthen the nonprofits working to create social change in Argentina, increase confidence in the nonprofit sector and promote the culture of giving among Argentines.
HelpArgentina, a pioneer in the use of the internet to build social solidarity, developed an easy, safe and effective way of connecting international donors to social organizations in Argentina. As a result, since 2003, HelpArgentina has delivered more than 3 million dollars in donations to Argentine nonprofits.
The internet has caused a revolution without precedent in the world of computer science and communication and in only a few years it has developed into the main channel for delivering information worldwide, providing new ways of interaction between people and countries. But its development is just limited to the interchange of data; it has also helped to develop new methods of collaboration, communication and solidarity between those who need help and those who can offer it.
HelpArgentina (HA) is a perfect example of this virtual solidarity. Founded in 2003 by American Lloyd Nimetz and Argentine Julián Bedel, this non-profit organization has depended on virtual solidarity from the beginning to achieve its success. The idea developed as a response to the impact of Argentina's economical crisis in 2001 and its objective was to find a simple, efficient and safe way for Argentineans who were living overseas to channel funds into social programs in the country. With time, the network of donors began to grow and the organization started to receive donations from all around the world.
"The simplest way to define HelpArgentina is as a bridge that connects individuals, businesses and foundations to best practice Argentine charities. By working with organizations that are transparent and that use best practices, we strive to develop confidence among the donors and to promote the culture of giving among Argentines," said Florencia Iacopetti who works in the Donor Services area of HA. She adds, "The organizations that are interested in being part of HA must comply with these prerequisites and rules."
HelpArgentina currently works with more than 60 Argentine non-profits that meet its standards of fiscal accountability and transparency. Since its founding, HA has received and distributed over 3 million dollars in donations which have allowed the realization of all types of initiatives, such as the renovation and repair of schools in Formosa and Salta, the establishment of a literacy program in Misiones, the founding of a Community Center in Villa 21 in Buenos Aires and much more.
"We still have a lot more to do in Argentina in terms of developing a culture of philanthropy and of strategic social investment," said Iacopetti. She explained that one of the main objectives of HelpArgentina is to develop a culture of giving which empowers individuals and corporations to support the charity sector. Because social change, as stated in the mission of HelpArgentina, "is only possible through individual engagement."
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