Ensuring the integrity of our donor community

Ensuring the integrity of our donor community

At BackaBuddy, we cherish our diverse donor community and are committed to protecting your trust. To keep our platform secure and transparent, our dedicated team works diligently to verify every crowdfunding campaign before processing payouts and activating charity profiles.

We want you to know that these processes are designed to uphold the values of trust and goodwill. They reflect our commitment to our community, not a judgment on your cause or efforts.

How It Works

When donations come in, they’re safely held in the BackaBuddy bank account until we can verify your campaign and ensure it’s ready for payout. Whenever you’re ready, simply log in and submit your documents.

Just a heads-up: your verification documents will only be reviewed after we receive your first donation. Our team is here for you, so please allow up to 5 working days for feedback on your submission.

How Do I Get My Campaign Verified?

To make the verification process as smooth as possible and to ensure a prompt payout for your campaign, please follow these friendly steps:

  1. Log in to your account.
  2. Navigate to the menu and click on Profile.
  3. Go to My Campaigns, then click the down arrow next to your campaign.
  4. Select Manage Campaign, then click on Verification.
  5. Submit the requested documents and banking details.

What Documents Will Be Requested?

Proof of Identity of the Campaign Creator (choose one of the following):

  • Identity document
  • Passport
  • Driver’s license

Supporting Documentation
Any documents that help clarify your campaign or explain its goals are welcome. Please ensure all submissions are legible and clear. Check out the next section for examples!

Banking Details
Please provide the bank account details where you’d like your funds sent. We’ll need proof of your bank account, ideally dated within the last 3 months.

How to Request Payout

Self-Managed Campaigns:
Once your campaign shows the verified badge, you’re all set for payout! When you’re ready, follow these simple steps:

  1. Log in to your profile.
  2. Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
  3. Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
  4. Select Payout Request.

Our finance team will take care of your request and typically requires up to 10 working days to process it.

Blue Tick Campaigns:
If you have a Blue Tick campaign, you’re in luck! It’s immediately eligible for payout. To request it, just follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your profile.
  2. Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
  3. Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
  4. Select Payout Request.

Don’t forget to submit a payout document with your request, such as an invoice, statement, or receipt for reimbursement. Just a little reminder: you can only request one payment at a time, so please wait until the previous one is completed before submitting another.

Examples of Supporting Documents per category

 

Individuals

Medical

  • Doctor’s report
  • Medical report
  • Medical aid letter
  • Pharmacy account
  • Hospital discharge note
  • Hospital invoice

In Loving Memory

  • Death certificate
  • Funeral home invoice

Fire/Drought/Disaster Support

  • Fire report
  • Police report
  • Invoices for replacing damaged goods

Education

  • Fee statement
  • Registration letter
  • Acceptance letter

Sports

  • Invitation to the sports event
  • Letter confirming the intention to attend

Women & Girls

  • Invoices for items to be purchased
  • Letter from the organization if partnering

Animals

  • Vet bill
  • Invoice from the vet

Creative/Arts

  • For art conventions (IMTA, iPOP, etc.) – invitation to the event
  • For equipment (musical instruments/videography equipment) – invoices from the supplier

Food & Hunger

  • Invoices from suppliers
  • Receipt for items bought (for reimbursement)

Environment

  • Permits – depending on the intended use of funds
  • Invoices for equipment

Children

  • If clothes are being purchased – invoices for clothing
  • If for school fees – fee statement per child
  • If raising funds for a school – a letter from the school principal

Community Development

  • If partnering with a charity/organization – a letter confirming the intent of the campaign
  • Invoices for food items to be purchased (pay directly)

Business/App

  • Business plans
  • Business registration documents
  • Budgets

Charities

  • A valid NPO certificate
  • Active social media pages (more than 1 year old)
  • A clear image of the charity/NPO logo

Please remember that any documentation you submit won’t be displayed on your campaign page. However, they play a crucial role in our verification process, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

 

A Support Guide for Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones

A Support Guide for Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones

Navigating life after a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re seeking emotional support, medical funding, or guidance on nutrition and wellness, there are resources available to help you every step of the way. This guide brings together some of the most helpful tools for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. From connecting with others who truly understand, to finding practical advice, these resources are here to remind you that hope and support are always within reach.

Crowdfunding for Medical Procedures: Accessing the Care You Need

The cost of cancer treatments can add stress to an already difficult situation. Crowdfunding provides a way to share your story and raise the funds needed for essential medical procedures. By reaching out to your community, you open the door for friends, family, and even strangers to contribute to your care. Each donation helps reduce the financial burden and brings you closer to getting the treatment you need.

At BackaBuddy, we offer a platform to share your story and raise funds for life-saving procedures. You’re not just raising funds—you’re building a network of people who care deeply about your health and well-being. Start your campaign on BackaBuddy.

Finding Your Cancer Buddy: Someone Who Gets It

Connecting with others who’ve faced similar challenges can make a world of difference. In South Africa, Cancer Buddies pairs you with someone who understands what you’re going through and offers emotional support. Sharing your journey with a cancer buddy can provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity, reminding you that you are not alone in this fight.

Nutrition and Exercise: Strengthening Your Body Through Wellness

Focusing on nutrition and exercise is a positive way to take control of your health. South Africa’s CANSA offers nutritional guidance specifically for cancer patients, ensuring you’re nourishing your body in ways that support healing. Gentle exercise can also improve your strength and mood, giving you a sense of empowerment during your treatment.

Hospice Care: Comfort and Peace for You and Your Loved Ones

For those needing end-of-life care, hospice offers compassion and comfort. South Africa’s Hospice Palliative Care Association (HPCA) ensures that you and your family receive the care and support needed during this difficult time. Hospice services focus on providing dignity, peace, and relief from pain, helping families navigate these moments with care and respect.

Free Counseling and Emotional Support: A Space to Heal

The emotional toll of cancer can be just as significant as the physical one. In South Africa, CancerCare and PinkDrive provide free support services. PinkDrive focuses on early detection, education, and support for breast cancer patients, offering free mammograms and educational resources through their mobile clinics. Having someone to listen, provide guidance, or offer practical assistance can be a valuable source of strength during your cancer journey.

Clinical Trials: Exploring Advanced Treatment Options

Many cancer patients find hope in participating in clinical trials that test new treatments. The South African Clinical Trials Registry offers information about ongoing cancer trials. Globally, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) provides details about clinical trials for various types of cancer, offering opportunities for patients to access cutting-edge therapies.

Cancer Support Groups: Building a Community of Strength

In addition to one-on-one cancer buddies, local and online cancer support groups can offer community, comfort, and encouragement. Reach for Recovery is a South African-based volunteer organisation providing emotional and practical support to breast cancer patients. Globally, online platforms like Cancer Support Community allow patients and families to join virtual support groups, offering a safe space to share experiences and receive guidance.

Apps for Support and Organization

Technology can help make managing your care easier. The CANSA iSurvivor app, specifically designed for South African cancer patients, offers tailored information and support. Apps like CareZone can help organise medications, appointments, and important health details, allowing you to focus on your well-being without worrying about the logistics.

Books to Inspire and Guide You

Books can be a source of comfort and wisdom as you navigate the challenges of cancer. Here are a few that may resonate with you:

Social Media Support: Staying Connected

Social media platforms can provide real-time support and community engagement. Following organisations like CANSA on Facebook and Twitter keeps you informed about events, resources, and stories of hope. These networks remind you that, even online, you’re part of a larger community that’s rooting for your recovery.

You Are Never Alone

In this journey, remember that your diagnosis does not define you. You are part of a vast network of support, ready to stand by you through every challenge—be it financial, emotional, or practical. Your story is unique and powerful, and each step you take toward healing is a testament to your strength and resilience. 

If you know someone who might benefit from this support, please share this resource with them. Your willingness to connect can make a meaningful difference in their journey. 

 

Raise Funds with BackaBuddy: How It Works

Raise Funds with BackaBuddy: How It Works

Crowdfunding with BackaBuddy empowers you to raise funds for any cause by harnessing the power of community support. Whether it’s medical expenses, memorials, adventures, or more, our platform helps you create impactful campaigns. Donations are purely out of generosity, allowing everyone to be part of the solution and drive positive change.

How It Works

Creating a fundraiser on BackaBuddy is simple and free. Set up your campaign, share it with your network, and start receiving donations. There are no time limits or penalties, and you can continue receiving funds even after reaching your target. We vet every campaign to ensure integrity, and for added security to our donors, funds can be paid directly to vendors. Payouts are processed within 10 business days.

Why BackaBuddy?

BackaBuddy offers a fast, legitimate way to raise funds without upfront fees. It’s an alternative to traditional funding, reaching beyond your immediate network. With no repayment clauses, donations go directly to those in need. Donors love the sense of community and belonging.

 

Watch the video below for more information:

 

Contact us if you need further assistance: BackaBuddy

 

How to Share Your Crowdfunding Campaign in the Media

How to Share Your Crowdfunding Campaign in the Media

Getting your crowdfunding campaign noticed by the media can boost visibility and bring in more donations. By connecting with various outlets, you can expand your audience and improve your campaign’s chances of success. 

 

Here’s a simple guide to help you effectively share your campaign with the media.

 

Tips for Sharing Your Campaign with the Media

  • Tell an Interesting Story: Highlight what makes your campaign unique. Media outlets prefer stories that are impactful and relatable. Keep it brief—no longer than a page.
  • Create a Press Kit: Include a press release, good-quality photos with captions, and a link to your campaign page to make it easy for journalists.
  • Choose the Right Media Outlets: Focus on local outlets first—they’re more likely to cover community stories. If your campaign has broader appeal, reach out to national or international media. Tailor your approach to what their audience would be interested in.
  • Reach Out to Local Media: Once your campaign has 10-20 donations and is gaining momentum, contact local blogs, newspapers, radio, and TV stations. A third-person press release with quotes and visuals works best.
  • Find Media Contacts: Use resources like The South African Government Media Directory (linked below), check the “Contact Us” section of publications, or reach out to journalists on social media.
  • Personalize Your Pitch: Customize your email for each media contact, explaining why their audience would be interested in your campaign. Avoid bulk emails.
  • Use Free Tools: Platforms like MyPR and PressPortal are great for free press release distribution and can help you reach a wider audience.
  • Follow Up: If you don’t hear back, send a polite follow-up email. Persistence can make a difference.

Media Contact List

The government has put together a list of key South African media outlets, categorised for your convenience. Use this list to reach out to the right platforms that can help amplify your campaign:

National and Commercial Radio and TV Stations

 

 

Newspapers and Magazines

 

 

Community Radio Stations

 

 

Community and Regional Newspapers

Foreign Media in South Africa

 Freelance Journalists in South Africa

Free Online submission platforms with direct links:

 

 

For an extensive list of media contacts, please refer to the Government of South Africa’s Media Directory.

By utilising these contacts and following these tips, you can effectively increase the reach and impact of your crowdfunding campaign.

Read more tips:

 

Effortless Giving: How to Navigate and Resolve Donation Issues

Effortless Giving: How to Navigate and Resolve Donation Issues

Your donation has the power to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life, and BackaBuddy is committed to ensuring your contribution is processed smoothly. While our process is usually seamless,  occasional issues can arise. This guide will help you troubleshoot any problems, ensuring your support reaches its worthy cause.

Common Issues with Donations

Here are some common reasons why a donation might not process as expected:

  • Cached Information: Your browser might be using outdated data that could affect the donation process.
  • Billing Address Mismatch: Ensure the billing address you enter matches the address on file with your credit card company.
  • Incorrect Security Code: A small error in the security code can prevent the transaction from going through.
  • Expiration Date Mismatch: Verify that the expiration date you entered matches the one on file with your credit card company.
  • Inactive Card: New cards that haven’t been activated yet might disrupt the donation process.
  • Credit Card Declined: Your credit card company may decline the charge for security reasons.
  • Communication Issues: Temporary issues between your credit card company, the payment gateway, or our site could affect the transaction.
  • Location Mismatch: Donations from a location different from your card’s billing address might trigger a security alert.
  • VPN Access: Using a VPN from an unfamiliar location can sometimes cause temporary issues.

Troubleshooting Your Donation

If you experience any issues with your donation, try the following steps:

  1. Verify Payment Status: If you receive a bank confirmation but encounter an error on BackaBuddy, wait 24 hours to see if the donation appears on the campaign page. If it doesn’t, please contact our Support Team with proof of payment.
  2. Retry Donation: If no payment notification is received, try making the donation again using a different device or browser. Clearing your cache and cookies may help. Ensure all details, including the address and security code, are correct.
  3. Contact Support: If the issue persists, contact our Support Team with detailed information and screenshots to help resolve the problem quickly.
  4. Pending Charges: If a failed donation shows as “pending” on your statement, it should be removed within 2-3 business days. If it remains, your bank can assist in removing the pending charge.

Processing Times

  • Credit card and PayPal donations are usually processed immediately.
  • Instant EFT donations may take up to 2 business days.
  • EFT payments might require up to 3 business days due to manual approval.

For EFT payments, please email proof of payment to [email protected].

BackaBuddy is dedicated to ensuring your donation reaches its worthy cause. If you encounter any issues, please reach out to our Support Team for assistance.