Lack of trust in social institutions? Learn how to combat it.
Brazilians seek organizations that value transparency when making donations.
The generosity of the Brazilian people is no myth. The Brazil Donation Survey, coordinated by IDIS, revealed a record: in 2024, the total amount donated by individuals in the country exceeded R$ 24 billion. However, there is still an obstacle: lack of trust in social institutions discourages new contributions.
According to the survey, 78% of Brazilians made some kind of donation, with 43% allocating resources to social organizations. Among those who do not donate, 38% cite mistrust and lack of transparency as the main reason. And even among those who do donate, 49% have stopped contributing after seeing negative news on the subject.
How can we overcome the lack of trust in social institutions?
In short, the IDIS survey shows that, in order to build a stronger future, the Third Sector needs to tackle mistrust head-on. To do so, organizations can adopt some essential practices to strengthen credibility and relationships with donors:
- Prioritize transparency and governance: Having a clear and auditable management structure is essential. Disclose balance sheets, activity reports, and show where resources are being applied;
- If possible, build a source of self-sustainability: A business model that generates its own revenue demonstrates maturity and planning. This reduces dependence on one-off donations and conveys security, showing that the institution has a solid foundation to continue its work even in unfavorable economic scenarios;
- Tell real stories: Numbers impress, but stories engage. Show how donations transform lives. Use storytelling to present success stories, testimonials from beneficiaries, and the before and after of projects. This creates an emotional connection and concretely shows the value of the contribution.
- Be accessible and multi-channel: Offer multiple ways to donate and be present where your audience is, whether on social media or direct communication channels. Accessibility facilitates action and reinforces the idea that the institution is open and available for dialogue.
Credibility and proven impact
The Ramacrisna Institute is an example of an institution that follows the steps to ensure greater trust with the public. Founded in 1959, the Institute is a non-profit Civil Society Organization (CSO) with no religious or partisan ties. In addition, it adopts transparency as the driving force behind its activities.
Thus, the history of each of the projects is living proof that donations go far beyond a simple monetary value. They become an opportunity, a new perspective on life. In this way, each contribution becomes an investment in education, technology, sports, and culture, building a future of hope and empowerment for children, young people, and families in vulnerable situations.
The work has already impacted the lives of almost 2 million people in 12 cities in Greater Belo Horizonte. These stories show that trust in Ramacrisna is rewarded with the transformation of lives.
In addition, the Institute has partnerships with individuals and legal entities, public authorities, and other institutions to maintain its projects.
Here are some ways you can contribute:
- Online donation: With just a few clicks, you can contribute any amount, either via PayPal or Pix;
- Donation via bank slip: Allows monthly donations of a fixed amount, chosen by the donor, who also chooses which project to support;
- Income tax allocation: Until December 31, legal entities can allocate up to 1% and individuals up to 6% of their income tax to the Fund for the Rights of Children and Adolescents (FDCA). Individuals can also contribute on their income tax return filed in March or April, but the amount drops to 3%;
- Participation in the Minas Gerais Tax Receipt Program: When you register, you can designate up to three social assistance institutions to benefit without spending any money out of pocket. In addition, the initiative promotes a prize draw with prizes worth over R$ 500;
- Fundraising via Incentive Law: Companies can allocate resources to projects via state and federal incentive laws for culture and sports, with tax exemptions and other benefits.
How about embarking on this journey and starting to make a difference? Help us keep our mission alive. Support the Ramacrisna Institute and transform the lives of thousands of people with your donation.
