Social Media Connects People With Their Passions
https://www.tiktok.com/@debrahillsings
Social Media Connects People With Their Passions
Social media has improved many efforts, making giving more accessible and far less expensive.
Happy Social Media Giving Day! Social media is a powerful tool for organizations in need and people seeking ways to contribute financially or voluntarily. This technology has made giving faster, more efficient, and more accessible.
For many years Development Officers relied on a variety of methods to raise much-needed
funds. Fundraising efforts included postal mailing newsletters, annual giving publications, direct telemarketing calls, private receptions, and programs for potential donors. These practices were often time-consuming and sometimes expensive in and of themselves. Social media has improved many of these efforts, making giving more accessible and far less expensive.
Now, social media has expanded the ways how we all can get the word out.
Word of Mouth
Nothing beats personal communication, especially from someone you feel is a reliable
source, such as a friend or family member. When searching for a new physician, the best Italian restaurant, or a great barber, often we first consult our friends and family. The same is true when researching where best to give our time and money. Word of mouth is important, fundraisers use the idea that people rely on the opinions of others to make giving decisions. In the past, agencies relied on word of mouth to share stories about their good works, generally done by phone or in person. Now, social media has expanded the ways how we all can get the word out.
Organizations still rely on word of mouth, however, social media has expanded their reach to thousands of people worldwide in an instant every day. Companies can post directly to interested givers through outlets such as websites, blogs, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Some organizations use audio, visual, and video technology through podcasts, YouTube channels, TikTok, and Lives. All of these exciting interactive experiences serve to further unite organizations with givers in meaningful ways.
Individuals
Social media has even provided a space for individuals, like organizations, to share their giving campaigns reaching thousands of people. People can now post their own GoFundMe, or a cause they are passionate about, or how agencies have had a personal impact on their lives. For instance, if you follow my blog, Love is Accessible, you will know I am a Board Member of the American Council of the Blind of Virginia and love to share our programs, services, encourage membership enrollment and giving. Also, I regularly shout out Virginia Voice for the ways “It brings the world to me” which is my tagline in a volunteer public service announcement.
Volunteers
Although organizations can always use more funding support, they also rely heavily on the support of volunteers. If you have time to volunteer, even as little as an hour a week; your time, talents, and commitment are always appreciated. Most agencies post contact information on their website and can be reached either by phone, email, or at a direct location. Don’t hesitate to reach out for more information and to connect. As I said in the beginning, nothing beats personal, one-to-one conversations.
However, just because it is now so quick and easy to give doesn’t mean this should be a quick or impulsive decision.
Due Diligence
Social media has created quick, efficient ways to give at the click of a mouse and a button. Methods of payment online vary from credit and debit cards to systems like PayPal, Cash App, and Venmo. However, just because it is now so easy to give, doesn’t mean this should be an impulsive decision.
Take the time to do your due diligence to ensure you are giving to legitimate organizations
and people. Consult others and make sure you find both positive and negative references online. Check with the Better Business Bureau for institutional ratings and consumer reviews. Do an internet search for news stories that may have appeared about agencies as well. Organizations should have online copies of their reports, news articles, and profiles about their efforts.
I hope that you continue to use social media and benefit from all the positive ways it
can unite you with organizations that bring meaning and hope to your lives and our
communities. Get involved, if you can, not only financially but also by volunteering to use
your talents and interests on committees and projects. Social media connections often
lead to real-world connections. Thrive in both worlds.
American Council of the Blind of Virginia
(ACBVA)
I encourage you to review the many ways ACBVA fulfills its values and mission daily to serve the community.
Don’t forget, we also seek volunteers who can give as little as an hour or more to serve and support the blind and low vision people.
Connect with us today!
