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Faith Leaders 4min read

What the Success of Pokemon Go Means for Your Church

Have you heard of the mobile app game Pokemon Go? The craze is quite literally taking over the world, becoming popular with gamers and non-gamers alike in countries from the United States to Australia. The app is the most popular U.S. mobile game in history, with nearly 21 million daily active users in the U.S.

You may not think that a simple phone game has any relevance to your church, but you can actually learn a lot from the success of this app. Discover how this type of technology impacts your members, and why you would benefit greatly from using a donation app in your place of worship.

Mobile Apps Matter

Consider the game crazes of the past. When the Atari first stepped on the scene, people stayed up into the wee morning hours to play Space Invaders and Asteroids. Then, in the 1980s-90s, Nintendo brought the Super Mario Bros into our lives. While console games are still popular, think about the recent games that get the most attention. Angry Birds. Pokemon Go. What do they have in common? Mobile.

Mobile is a big deal in today’s society. According to Mobile Business Insights:

1.4 billion smartphones were sold in 2015

80% of people access the internet from smartphones

Over 50% of people immediately start using their smartphones when they wake up in the morning

The reason Pokemon Go has been such a success is due to its mobility. The game is played by moving around to different locations, not staying in one place. That is why it is the perfect fit for mobile devices. Since people already carry their smartphones everywhere they go, now they can play a fun interactive game as they travel.

If so many people are willing to download the Pokemon Go app to their phones, what would stop them from downloading a free donation app in order to give to your church? If the app creates a uniquely beautiful and effortless giving experience, they will be even more inclined to make use of the technology.

How wonderful would it be if your members could give to your church from anywhere at any time, the same way they are able to play Pokemon Go? How much more money would your place of worship receive? What kind of impact could your organization have in the community with that increase in donations?

Technology Brings Generations Together

This game is not just for kids. People young, old, and everywhere in-between are getting on board with the Pokemon Go craze. In fact, over 40% of the adults who have downloaded the app are over age 25.

If you are acquainted with a parent of young children, you have likely seen how Pokemon Go has enhanced their relationship. Suddenly letting your child use technology is not a burden, but a blessing. It gives parents a new reason to actively play with their children in a way they are enthusiastic about. Instead of sitting at home, they can take a walk to the park to catch some new Pokemon together.

How often do your older members interact with the young people in your church? As seen with Pokemon Go, technology brings generations together. Wouldn’t seniors jump at the opportunity to learn about new technology from your younger members? Fostering a connection between the young and elderly people in your place of worship will go a long way in strengthening your community.

Build Excitement with a Donation App

When consumers find an app that is beautifully made and makes life easier or more fun, it’s bound to be a hit. People will get excited about downloading and using the app. Pokemon Go is exactly that — a fun, easy to use app that brings hours of entertainment to the masses. When you look for a donation app for your church, keep in mind the excitement you want to build among your members. Choose an option that is beautiful, convenient, and effortless to use.

Adding donation app technology to your church is a win-win scenario. Your members, young and old, are already connected to their phones almost 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so this will enable them to give on the go. Plus, seniors who aren’t accustomed to the technology would love an opportunity to spend quality time with your younger members and learn the ropes.

By accepting mobile offerings using a donation app, you can not only boost giving to your church, but you can also make your members excited about giving and help them feel more involved in the community. If Pokemon Go can bring so many people together and create so much excitement, imagine what your church can do with a similarly beautiful donation app.

About the Author

Allison has a passion for charitable giving and believes that small acts of kindness can make the world a better place. She uses her web content and social media expertise to guide churches and nonprofits through the mobile fundraising process.

Allison Weaver