Kiwanis and myPOS: Making a difference with contactless donations

As the world evolves, embracing technology and modern fundraising methods has become essential for charity organisations like Kiwanis International, which works in 85 countries. The mission of this global charity is to change the lives of children, and its local branches do that through community work, awareness campaigns and fundraising. 

The Icelandic chapter of Kiwanis has helped local kids for 60 years, and since 2022, it does that more efficiently thanks to one of the most easy-to-use, flexible and affordable ways to collect cashless donations – myPOS Go 2. With the help of the lightweight card machine, Kiwanis has overcome some of the logistical challenges associated with nationwide fundraising and increased donations.

Serving together to change children’s lives

The Icelandic chapter of Kiwanis began its journey in 1964 and since then it has launched numerous programs.

The organisation works with local companies, authorities and schools to improve traffic safety. A great example is the partnership between Kiwanis Iceland and Eimskip, the island’s largest shipping company. For over 20 years, this collaboration has enabled the distribution of bicycle helmets to all first-grade students. 

For chronically ill children, the local chapter plans events that raise both awareness and funds. Most recently it executed a big K-keys sale, promoting its distinctive badges.

Additionally, the volunteer team plans campaigns focused on mental health awareness and substance abuse prevention, and it organises various fundraising events such as Christmas tree sales, dinner parties and auctions. These activities not only generate much-needed financial support but also bring communities together in the spirit of giving and solidarity.

The role of technology in modern fundraising

Organising large-scale, nationwide fundraising events comes with significant logistical challenges, from managing volunteers to securing necessary resources. As economic shifts impact traditional fundraising methods, Kiwanis Iceland has had to adapt and find new ways to engage donors and raise funds.

In the digital age, technology has become vital for social services to expand their reach and engage with supporters. Social media platforms are now integral to Kiwanis Iceland’s strategy for promoting events and raising awareness. In 2022, the organisation took a major step toward modernising its fundraising efforts by integrating nearly 140 myPOS Go 2 card readers, allowing them to better manage donations and connect with a broader audience.

How myPOS supports Kiwanis mission

The partnership with myPOS has enabled Kiwanis Iceland to overcome some of the logistical challenges associated with nationwide fundraising. By equipping volunteers with portable payment devices, myPOS has made it easier for people to contribute. This convenience has translated into greater participation and higher donation totals.

“myPOS’s support has been crucial for our recent K-key sales project. Managing a fundraiser of this scale wouldn’t have been possible without their assistance. We managed to raise more than 340 000 euros, which is a great achievement. The entire process was made smoother thanks to the help from the team in Iceland, who have been some of the most flexible I have ever interacted with”, explains Tómas Sveinsson, district director of Kiwanis.

As Kiwanis Iceland continues to grow and support more children in need, its partnerships will be crucial in ensuring sustainability and success. Working with myPOS has helped Kiwanis solve some of the challenges of the modern world and make it a better place, one child at a time.