Mid-Ohio Valley-based online magazine Clutch MOV is looking to help workers in the service industry who've recently lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic by launching a virtual tip jar that allows community members to donate to them.
As most servers and bartenders in the US make a low hourly income and rely heavily on tips, losing out on them can take a huge toll, and initiatives like Clutch MOV's virtual tip jar allows for a greater connection between community members and servers. Those in the service industry who are interested in being added to the virtual tip jar can do so through the Clutch MOV website. Here, users can also submit a donation to the virtual tip jar by selecting the worker they'd like to donate to, and then sending the amount of their choice to their Venmo or Paypal account.
Sarah Arnold, Clutch MOV's owner and founder, spoke to her decision to include the virtual tip jar by saying "A lot of my friends in the service industry felt uncomfortable asking for help but [the virtual tip jar provides] a little bit of structure and allows them to be apart of a system [that benefits them]."
Virtual Tip Jars
Clutch MOV is Helping to Support Service Workers Impacted by COVID-19
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Tip Jars - The use of virtual tip jars provides a new way for community members to support workers in the service industry who have lost their jobs.
2. Community Connection - Initiatives like Clutch MOV's virtual tip jar foster a greater sense of connection between community members and servers in the service industry.
3. Alternative Payment Methods - The adoption of Venmo and Paypal as donation platforms for virtual tip jars offers an alternative payment method for community members who want to contribute.
Industry Implications
1. Service Industry - The service industry can benefit from the implementation of virtual tip jars as a means of financial support during challenging times.
2. Digital Payments - Digital payment platforms like Venmo and Paypal can capitalize on the increased usage for tipping and donations through virtual tip jars.
3. Online Community Platforms - Online community platforms, such as Clutch MOV's website, can leverage the virtual tip jar model to support and connect workers in the service industry with community members.