### Ars Technica’s Fundraising Initiative: More than $540,000 Collected Since 2007
Since the launch of its charity initiatives in 2007, Ars Technica has established a tradition of generosity that highlights the publication’s dedication to making a difference. Thanks to the kindness of its readership, Ars has accumulated an impressive **$542,935.18** for various charitable endeavors throughout the years, supporting groups like **Child’s Play** and the **Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)**. The 2024 Charity Drive upheld this legacy, securing **$39,047.66** in contributions. Below is a detailed overview of this year’s fundraising efforts and the enduring impact of Ars Technica’s charitable initiatives.
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### **2024 Charity Drive: Key Figures**
The 2024 campaign was yet another tremendous achievement, with readers rallying to support two significant causes. Here are some important data points from this year’s initiative:
– **Total raised:** $39,047.66
– Contributions to **Child’s Play:** $14,914.82
– Contributions to the **EFF:** $23,912.89
– **Number of individual contributions:** 378
– Child’s Play: 201 contributions
– EFF: 174 contributions
– **Average contribution:** $103.30
– Child’s Play: $74.20
– EFF: $137.43
– **Median contribution:** $50.75
– Child’s Play: $50.00
– EFF: $66.95
– **Largest single contribution:** $3,000 (to the EFF)
– **Contributions of $1,000 or more:** 7
– **Contributions of $100 or more:** 133
– **Small but impactful contributions ($5 or less):** 6
These statistics showcase the diverse range of supporters, from those who give small donations to those making more substantial gifts. Every contribution, regardless of its size, was crucial in reaching this remarkable total.
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### **The Beneficiaries: Child’s Play and the EFF**
Ars Technica’s charity campaigns consistently spotlight organizations that align with its values and appeal to its tech-inclined audience:
1. **Child’s Play**: This nonprofit organization provides toys, games, and various forms of entertainment to children in hospitals and shelters for domestic violence victims. By promoting play and happiness, Child’s Play enhances the experiences of children during tough situations.
2. **Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)**: A defender of digital rights, the EFF strives to safeguard online privacy, free speech, and innovation. Its advocacy is vital in our increasingly digital society, ensuring technology benefits the public good.
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### **A Tradition of Generosity: Ars Technica’s Charity Drives Since 2007**
The 2024 fundraising event adds to a rich history of altruistic efforts by Ars Technica and its audience. Below is a summary of the total funds raised in recent years:
– **2024:** $39,047.66
– **2023:** $39,830.36
– **2022:** $31,656.07
– **2021:** $40,261.71
– **2020:** $58,758.11 (a record-breaking year)
– **2019:** $33,181.11
– **2018:** $20,210.66
– **2017:** $36,012.37
The inaugural drive in 2007 began with a humble amount of approximately $10,000. Over the years, the initiative has seen remarkable growth, driven by the enthusiasm and generosity of the community.
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### **The Strength of Community**
One of the most impressive aspects of Ars Technica’s charity drives is the sense of community they cultivate. Readers from across the globe unite to champion causes that create a real impact. Every donation, be it $5 or $3,000, counts, and the collective result is significant.
The Ars Technica team has also enhanced the experience by including a **swag giveaway** as a part of the initiative. While the winners of the 2024 giveaway are still being informed, the true triumph rests in the profound support exhibited by the Ars community.
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### **Looking Forward**
As Ars Technica’s charity initiatives continue to flourish, so too does their influence. Having raised over half a million dollars since 2007, the Ars community has showcased the strength of collective efforts. These initiatives not only bolster critical causes but also motivate others to contribute.
To all those who engaged in the 2024 drive: **Thank you.** Your kindness reflects the power of this community and its dedication to improving the world.
Here’s to another year of generosity and achieving new heights in the future!
