About Us

GiveForward is a Chicago-based social venture committed to helping people expand the way they approach philanthropy. At GiveForward we believe that people shouldn't wait to give back. They can give enough now to make a difference, even with small donations. It is the community effect that allows each dollar to work together to change someone’s world.

Our goal is to create a movement that encourages everyone to experience the joys of giving and receiving at any level. It doesn't take a million dollar donation to make a difference – by utilizing GiveForward, millions of people donating $1 each, adds up to the equivalent of history's most impressive philanthropic endeavors.

At GiveForward, we believe that there are many great causes out there that do not necessarily meet the definition of a "non-profit." That is why we launched GiveForward, a unique space to help ordinary people with extraordinary visions achieve their goals through the generosity of their personal networks.

Our Philosophy

To GiveForward is to invest small amounts of money now in the people and projects
you believe in and then see what grows from that small gift.

Our Story

The evolution of GiveForward is a story of two people 2,000 miles apart with a similar passion
for making the world a better place.

Desiree's love of philanthropy and social entrepreneurship developed while working at the Kauffman Foundation, where she helped colleges and universities build their entrepreneurship programs. While exploring funding options for a different social venture, Desiree researched available online resources for capital. Realizing the lack of online fundraising options for worthy causes without 501c3 status, Desiree changed her vision, hoping to create a tool that would help people fund the projects they care about most.

Ethan's love of fundraising that was borne out of his efforts to raise money from friends and family for his first marathon. He was inspired and moved by the generosity of strangers. After finishing law school, he realized he wanted to help others experience that same awe in humanity. It was at this moment that a mutual friend introduced Ethan and Desiree.

From there, Desiree and Ethan combined their visions to create a unique site that focuses on project-targeted giving, allowing donors to directly fund projects that they think can make a difference.