What is it?
The Pay It Forward Kiosk is a brand new way to make charitable donations. It is a debit card swipe machine (PIN required) in retail outlets for the sole purpose of donating directly to multiple local non-profit organizations. It does not accept cash or credit cards. As of early 2007, the PIF Kiosk is still an idea in development to expand the business model of fund raising worldwide! This may be the first of its kind, as an Internet search did not turn up any such kiosks in retail locations.
The photo is just an idea of what one might look like if Starbucks becomes the retail outlet. Starbucks is perfect for this. They're everywhere, they're socially responsible and they want our coffee experience to be about more than just the bean! What do you do while you're waiting for your coffee drink?
The PIF Kiosk Advantage
The great thing about the PIF Kiosk is that donated funds go straight into non-profit organizations' bank accounts thereby reducing the cost of fund raising. Starbucks doesn't even have to process the funds. Wouldn't you prefer to have as much of your dollar as possible go towards direct services? What is Pay It Forward?
In early 2002, Catherine Ryan Hyde authored a book called Pay It Forward. The powerful message of doing favors for others has resulted in a movement of sorts. More can be learned at www.payitforwardmovement.org.