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Golden Pledges $500 Million to Support Nonprofits in Need

On May 1, 2025, Golden, a leading platform for volunteer management and community engagement, made headlines with its remarkable commitment to support nonprofits and government organizations impacted by recent federal funding changes. The company has announced an exceptional in-kind contribution totaling $500 million, providing free access to its Community Plan software valued at $50 per month, aimed at up to one million organizations facing operational challenges due to AmeriCorps and USAID funding freezes.

The significance of this donation cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the recent $370 million cuts to AmeriCorps grant-making. These cuts led to the immediate cessation of services for many community programs as AmeriCorps volunteers were sent home, disrupting critical services that these organizations provided. With over 200,000 AmeriCorps members having lost their positions, the ripple effect has seen significant job losses in the nonprofit sector, with more than 10,000 positions cut between January 20 and March 31 alone, as documented by the Chronicle of Philanthropy's Nonprofit Layoff Tracker.

In response to these troubling developments, Golden's initiative stands out as a beacon of hope for affected organizations, ranging from disaster recovery groups to educational services and veteran support programs. The company’s act of generosity aims to alleviate the strain on organizations that were already dealing with the operational challenges of serving communities during trying times.

Sam Fankuchen, the CEO and founder of Golden, articulated the vision behind this initiative stating, "While we can't replace AmeriCorps, we can help affected organizations stay focused on their missions by removing the operational costs of managing their volunteer and fundraising programs." He emphasized the importance of mission-driven work and the need for the community to rally together during such challenges.

Golden's platform is designed to simplify volunteer management for organizations by enabling easy recruitment, scheduling, and fundraising. The integration of AI tools not only allows organizations to streamline their operations but also offers the potential to convert volunteers into donors, enhancing the financial sustainability of nonprofits often constrained by economic shifts and donor retention issues.

Beyond granting access to its software, Golden is also extending several additional support measures. These include:

• - Continuing service at no cost for current clients impacted by the funding freeze
• - Launching a public resource center to connect displaced AmeriCorps volunteers with new opportunities
• - Encouraging collaboration among local governments, companies, and educational institutions to foster community resilience
• - Partnering with organizations like Charity Navigator and GivingTuesday to ensure the offer reaches those who need it most.

As Fankuchen noted, "Communities everywhere have just lost significant capacity to deliver critical services." In light of changing federal policies that can abruptly affect funding streams, Golden is hopeful that this philanthropic effort will inspire others in technology, corporate sectors, and philanthropy to take meaningful action in support of their communities.

Organizations that may benefit from Golden's initiative include any nonprofit, local government body, or educational institution that previously received assistance from AmeriCorps or USAID. With a goal to relieve the financial burden on these entities, Golden's commitment could potentially reshape the landscape of community support during an unprecedented crisis.

For further information about how to access the free Community Plan and take advantage of Golden's philanthropic offering, interested organizations are encouraged to visit the dedicated resource page on Golden's website. This initiative not only reflects Golden's commitment to community service but also exemplifies how the tech industry can play a crucial role in supporting societal recovery and uplift during challenging times.

Overall, this substantial pledge is more than just a financial commitment; it symbolizes a movement towards community solidarity and resilience, essential for navigating through tough times. As the needs of society evolve in response to federal funding adjustments, the call for greater collaboration and support has never been more pressing, setting a precedent for future actions among corporations and organizations alike.