Unbelievable Requests on GoFundMe: Scams, Charities, and Skepticism

GoFundMe has become a platform for people to raise funds for various causes ranging from personal emergencies to charity initiatives. However, not all requests are genuine, and some can be quite unbelievable. This article explores these unusual GoFundMe requests and the reactions they have garnered.

The Scam Request: A Life of Excess

One of the more outrageous requests was made by a woman who asked for $90,000 to continue her extravagant lifestyle. This came at a time when she claimed she had either left or been dumped by her boyfriend. The response from potential donors was mixed; some were foolish enough to donate, with one commenter even advising her to ‘go girl’! Others, including myself, questioned the wisdom of donating to someone who seemed overly wealthy and suspiciously inviting diverse groups to contribute.

My own experience with fundraising was different. I ran a few smaller campaigns, one for myself and another for a teacher to support his kids' martial arts program. I raised about 10% of what I requested, and the teacher only received a small donation, not his anticipated amount.

The Evaluation of Legitimate Requests

While skepticism is prevalent, it's important to not dismiss all requests without scrutiny. There have been cases where wealthy families with a member facing medical issues have still made appeals for funds, recognizing that their current struggles are not as severe as those of others. One such example involved a family that could afford luxuries like high-end cars and real estate but were still seeking donations because of extensive medical costs and frequent hospital stays. This is a far cry from the scams, and the public's reactions tend to be more positive in such cases.

Public Awareness and Skepticism

The existence of scams on GoFundMe has led to a significant level of skepticism among users. Many believe that if a charity is going to succeed, it should be through proper registration and adherence to reporting conditions. Even then, there are instances where donations may not be used as intended. The Prestigious Charity issue is a good example: if you donate to a charity that claims to provide food to starving sea gulls, but 85% of the money is used for travel expenses by administrators, donors may feel it’s better to avoid such charities altogether.

My personal experience is tinged with frustration. I avoid GoFundMe as much as possible because there are too many unbelievable or obvious scams. It's a shame that genuine causes may suffer due to the actions of a few unscrupulous individuals. However, recognizing and reporting such scams is the best way to preserve the integrity of the platform.

The Gorilla Glue Girl and Beyond

Another notable case is the Gorilla Glue incident, where a fundraiser was set up for someone who allegedly had to pay back the money raised due to its uncontrollable nature. The lesson from this is clear: if you're seeking donations, ensure they are used properly and transparently. Donors are much more likely to support someone who understands the responsibility that comes with raising funds.

My personal stance is that instead of relying on GoFundMe, people should consider other options. If you are unable to pay bills, finding a better job, taking on another job, or seeking assistance from family may be more effective. Begging for funds should be a last resort.

Conclusion: While GoFundMe can be a powerful tool for raising funds for various causes, user awareness and critical thinking are essential. Skepticism can help us avoid scams and ensure genuine opportunities are appreciated. By staying informed and cautious, we can support our communities more effectively.