Resources for Non-Profits Interested in Leveraging Social Media

There is no question that the digital age is changing the opportunity for non-profits. Consider the following: According to University of Massachusetts and Dartmouth Center for Marketing Research:

• 89% of charitable organizations are using some form of social media
• 57% of these are blogging
• 45% reported social media is very important to their fundraising strategy

In fact, non-profits are well-positioned to leverage these cost effective set of tools to build enthusiasm to spread viral awareness. Measurable fundraising results are less clear now, but using the principle that you need 4-5 touch points with a stakeholder to change their behavior, social media can be an effective part of an overall strategy.

Working with non-profits, I have assembled some resources for those looking to incorporate social media into their awareness and development efforts. Thanks to http://www.Techsoup.org for some of the leads:

Engaging “inactive” supporters online: http://blog.givezooks.com/?p=82
Case study by Beth Kanter: http://widgetfundraising.wikispaces.com//
Facebook Groups and Pages – Features, Benefits And Killer Tips: http://johnhaydon.com/2009/04/facebook-groups-pages-tips/
15 tips for fundraising on Twitter: http://www.diaryofareluctantblogger.com/2009/06/small-pebbles-make-big-waves-15-tips.html
Nonprofit Technology Resource: http://www.nonprofittech.com/event/question/
10 Tips for Asking Bloggers to Write About Your Cause: http://havefundogood.blogspot.com/2007/12/10-tips-for-asking-bloggers-to-write.html
Social by Social: Handbook launched!: http://www.socialbrite.org/2009/07/08/social-by-social-handbook-launched/
12for12k raised $14,500 in 12 hours: http://12for12k.org/2009/03/19/thank-you/

We've recently launched a new on-site training geared to non-profits who want to understand basic social media tools, create a simple communications plan and get started. Contact us if you are interested.