Many individuals use their mobile phones to complete a variety of tasks, from making simple phone calls to paying bills and watching television. Smartphone technology has advanced so much in the past few years that consumers can do innumerable actions with just the swipe of the finger.

Philanthropists have discovered that nonprofit fundraising commitments are also on this list. Nonprofit organizations and their patrons have taken to the smaller screens to fundraise and make donations alike. According to The Chronicle of Philanthropy, 18 percent of all year-end donations in 2012 made to Mercy House were paid from mobile phones, so many industry insiders believe that it would behoove these types of groups to adopt a mobile strategy. 

The news source said to keep up with growing trends, many charities are turning to mobile initiatives. The outlet explained that even if these groups haven't yet optimized ecommerce gateways with which patrons can make donations, they're likely losing out, because private individuals are probably trying to do so.

This trend is spreading throughout many different industries and nonprofits with different interests. For instance, Reuters reported that during the last election cycle, the Obama fundraising campaign became the first in history to accept donations via text message.