Benevolent.net Founder Named One of Top 100 Local Innovators at 2012 Techweek

CHICAGO, June 21, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Announced this week as 2012's "Most Innovative Names in Chicago Tech," the Techweek 100 lead rapidly-growing tech companies, invent new programming languages and enhance the technology ecosystem. The Techweek Conference and Expo runs June 22 – 26 at The Merchandise Mart in Chicago.

Megan Kashner, founder and CEO of the new crowd-funding nonprofit start-up, Benevolent.net, has been named to the Techweek 100, recognized for reinventing personal giving by creating www.Benevolent.net - a social media philanthropy site that connects people on the edge of sustainability with those who want to help.

Megan has spent her career leading organizations and programs dedicated to bringing innovation to the nonprofit sector and to improving social service support for women and families living in poverty and at risk.

About Benevolent

Benevolent.net is a groundbreaking nonprofit that utilizes technology to connect people who face hurdles along their paths to stability with people who want to help. Unlike traditional charity websites, Benevolent provides a platform for choice and direct personal giving coupled with the security of a trusted validation process, possible only through Benevolent's model of partnerships with local nonprofits.

This startup was conceived of and launched by Chicago-area leader Megan Kashner. The mission of Benevolent is to bring dignity and self-determination to both sides of the giving equation, illuminating the realities of life on the edge of sustainability.

Success Story – Emily

Emily was in an abusive relationship and needed to move as quickly as possible with her four children to a safe and secret location. As the date for the security deposit drew nearer, word went out via Benevolent's website and social media channels, and within 24 hours Emily's need went from less than half-funded to fully-funded. Benevolent sent the funds contributed by 17 supporters from around the US to the nonprofit that had validated Emily's need. Read Emily's full story and watch her video here.

Benevolent's stats since December 1, 2011 launch:

Over 30 needs fully funded by 279 contributors, with $14,600 donated.

For more information about Benevolent.net, or to schedule an interview with founder and CEO Megan Kashner, please contact Paul J. Crossey:  872.216.3401 / [email protected]. 

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SOURCE Benevolent