The author began charging $100 for 30-minute chats and donating the proceeds to educational nonprofits.
This paid model immediately attracted a wide range of people and raised nearly $6,000.
Charging reduced awkwardness around scheduling time with a stranger and justified social media promotion of the fundraiser.
Free calls are still offered as schedule allows, but non-donors are less likely to get time.
The program offers a simple, sustainable way to meet interesting people and support education without formal volunteering.
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