What is SMS Donation?
SMS donation involves collecting donations by sending an SMS to a short number defined by mobile service providers. This system is used by foundations, associations, and non-governmental organizations to reach those in need in cases of social responsibility, natural disasters, and similar situations. Thanks to this system, which provides significant convenience to both institutions and charitable donors, the amount of donations collected can increase, and the donation periods are shortened.
Is There Any Legal Regulation Regarding the SMS Donation System?
In accordance with Articles 3 and 5 of Law No. 2860 on Aid Collection, a legal framework has been established for collecting donations via SMS to numbers assigned by mobile operators. According to the relevant provisions of the law, the SMS donation system can be utilized by foundations, associations, non-governmental organizations, and legal entities with permission to collect aid. Like any donation campaign, the SMS donation system is subject to specific restrictions, including time and amount limitations. It is important to discuss these issues with the relevant authorities while obtaining the necessary permissions.
What are the Advantages of the SMS Donation System?
1. Easy Monitoring: The system is easy to monitor for fundraisers. Donations received can be recorded and audited by both the mobile operators (intermediary institutions) and the institution itself.
2. Convenient for Donors: The more alternative donation methods available, the easier it is for the association to collect aid.
3. Accounting Records: Donations can be easily recorded in accounting records. Since associations are subject to periodic audits, it is crucial that donations are regularly and accurately recorded. The SMS donation system allows donations to be reflected in accounting records instantly.
4. Regular Reporting: Data recorded by the mobile operator is regularly reported to the institution. With these reports, the success or failure of the donation system can be easily assessed.
What Should Be Done to Collect Donations Via SMS?
To collect donations via SMS, you must first obtain the necessary permissions. If the fundraising activity is limited to a specific province, permission must be obtained from the governor of that province, or from the district governor's office if the activity is within a district. For a broader aid campaign, the application is made to the governor's office of the province where the legal entity is registered. The governorship then informs other governorships and the Ministry of Interior.
A short number is assigned by the mobile operator (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom) based on the contract for institutions that have obtained the necessary permission. This number is then shared with members and donors, who are asked to send SMS donations. The amount corresponding to the SMS sent is verified by the mobile operator and deposited into the institution's account at the end of the specified period.
Do You Need More Support About the SMS Donation System?
Aidango offers a comprehensive suite of services with various modules designed for foundations, associations, non-governmental organizations, and other aid-collecting entities. It enables the management of all business and operational aspects, including the SMS donation system. Within the member module, you can compare records of registered members or donors with mobile operator data and track their participation in the donation campaign. Additionally, you can utilize services like mass email and bulk SMS to send communications related to the donation campaign. Aidango also includes an online donation module integrated with your website, allowing you to manage all donations from a single screen.
