<img class="alignnone" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/H/E/G/-/-/olderamericansmonth2.jpg" alt="Older American's Month photo and slogan for 2013." />
<p>May is <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.olderamericansmonth.acl.gov/">Older Americans Month</a> (its 50th anniversary!), a great time to thank your older donors and volunteers, and to simply appreciate the rich diversity that older people bring to our organizations.

<p>This year's slogan for the month-long celebration of older people is "Unleash the Power of Age." How will you do that? Check out the official website (sponsored by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Administration for Community Living) for lots of ideas that you can jump into immediately.

<p>Volunteerism is one of the hallmarks of aging. People simply do more of it as they age. Plus, volunteering is steadily becoming more popular for this age group as we learn about its benefits to our physical and mental health.

<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.aarp.org/">AARP</a>, the premiere advocacy organization for older Americans, has become an ardent promoter of volunteeism among older people. AARP, which does significant surveying, found that volunteering is becoming steadily <a href-"http://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/info-01-2013/older-adults-are-big-on-volunteering.html">more popular</a>, In 2003 62% of older adults volunteered. That number rose to 69% in 2009, and in 2012 stood at 76%.

<p>Why? One reason is that volunteering just keeps older people in the pink. A recent <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://volunteer.ca/content/volunteering-and-older-adults-final-report">study by Volunteer Canada</a> incorporated much of the research on this topic from recent years and found that volunteering does these things for older people:
<ul>
<li>improves physical functioning
<li>enhances emotional health
<li>provides social advantages, and
<li>is good for brain health.
</ul>

<p>All of those factors are turning out to be key to longevity, and not just existing but living an energetic and engaged life well into old age.

<p>So what are you doing to recruit, engage, and grow your nonprofit or charity with the help of older people?

<p>Here are some resources about older adults and volunteering:

<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/b/2012/05/09/older-people-rule-in-may.htm">Last year's info about Older American's Month</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/fundraising/a/6-Tips-For-Reaching-Baby-Boomers-As-They-Turn-65.htm">6 Tips for How Nonprofits Can Reach Baby Boomers as They Turn 65</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.encore.org/">How Encore.org Encourages Older Americans to Give Back</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.aarp.org/giving-back/volunteering/experience-corps.html?cmp=RDRCT-EXPE_SEPT09_011&?intcmp=DSO-SEARCH-AARPSUGG">Experience Corps, AARP, and How Older People Help With Literacy</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb13-ff07.html">Facts about Older Americans from the Census Bureau</a>
</ul>
<p><i>Image: Courtesy of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services</i>

<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
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<img class="alignnone" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/H/B/G/-/-/How-Benevolent-Works---Imgur.jpg" alt="Diagram showing how Benevolent works." />

<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.benevolent.net/index.html">Benevolent's</a> mission is simple. Help people who just need a modest helping hand to dig out of a tough spot. And do it through online crowdfunding.

<p>There are so many crowdfunding sites that have sprung up in recent years that it is truly daunting to keep up, but this one caught my attention almost instantly.

<p>So what's so special about it?
<p><!--more-->
<p><b>Its Relevancy.</b> Everyday now we hear about the long-term unemployed, about families in need, and ordinary people who have fallen on hard times through no fault of their own. Benevolent offers a simple way to help individuals, not an organization, for a reasonable cost.

<p><b>Its Backstory.</b> Benevolent was launched in 2011 by <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.linkedin.com/pub/megan-kashner/6/956/30b">Megan Kashner</a>, a social worker and experienced nonprofit professional in Chicago, who grasped the power of crowdfunding and of focusing on one individual and one specific need. Kashner's pilot program raised more than $35,000 for more than 70 people in just 15 months.

<p><b>Its Safety.</b> People like to give to people, but they want to make sure that their donations are safe. That's why Benevolent works with nonprofits who have to "vouch" for an individual and verify that their need is legitimate and reasonable. The money goes to the nonprofit and then to the person. Benevolent says that the average donation at the site is $50 and the average need is $470.

<p><b>Its Backers.</b> Kashner was invited to present her idea at last year's <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.whitehouse.gov/webform/white-house-forum-philanthropic-innovation-september-20th">White House Forum on Philanthropy Innovation</a>. The keynote speaker was Jean Case of the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://casefoundation.org/">Case Foundation</a> and she liked Benevolent, calling it one of the best programs presented.

<p>Now, Benevolent has received $285,000 in grants from two major foundations, the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.knightfoundation.org/">John S. and James L Knight Foundation</a> and the Marjorie S. Fisher Fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. The new money will help fund the expansion of Benevolent into three new cities, Detroit, Charlotte, North Carolina, and San Jose/Silicon Valley.

<p><b>Its Simplicity.</b> Online, potential donors see profiles of people in need with a very specific request. For instance one man needs to get his car repaired so he can go to his new job; a woman needs a computer so she can work from home even though she is disabled; and a mother with a two-year old needs some furniture for their apartment.

<p>Needs tend to be just a few hundred dollars at most, and donors can make small contributions. The website is simple, almost austere, but it works well. One person's story at a time, one simple need, amount needed, progress toward completion. Click, fill out simple form, done.


<p>Having proved its worth in Chicago, now the organization is set to expand. The three new cities were chosen because their low income residents face some unique challenges.

<p>For instance in Detroit, the median houshold income decreased more than a third in recent years and half of the city's household have to manage with less than $25,000 annual incomes.

<p>In San Jose, the properous tech industry has brought in a tide of transient workers who often work for low wages while living in an area with one of the highest cost of living rates in the country.

<p>In Charlotte, census figures show that the percentage of families in poverty has nearly doubled between 2000 and 2010.

<p>I like this crowdfunding site very much. As one of its new funders, Mrs Fisher of the Marjorie S. Fisher Fund, said, "This is not charity, it is neighbors helping neighbors."

<p>Benevolent feels that way to me too. That's why I gave.

<p><i>Photo: Courtesy of Benevolent</i>.

<img class="alignnone" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/H/4/G/-/-/matchinggiftonwebsite.JPG" alt="Matching gift instructions at the website of the Diaper Bank of Southern Arizona" />

<p>Most of us would never think of passing up our employer's matching contribution to our 401(k) or other retirement account.

<p>Yet, many people never apply that reasoning to their charitable gifts, even though many employers offer a match for our donations to our cherished causes.

<p>There are many reasons why this happens, and we may all wish that companies did a better job of publicizing their matching gift programs in house. But the fact remains that sometimes charities themselves must take an active part by identifying companies in their areas that do match and then reminding donors to take advantage of that opportunity.

<p>The <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.diaperbank.org/donate/other-ways-to-donate/matching-gift-program/">Diaper Bank of Southern Arizona</a> knows how important it is to promote matching gift opportunities. See its instructions above and at its site.

<p>Adam Weinger of <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.doublethedonation.com/">Double the Donation</a>, has resolved to help educate both donors and nonprofits about the money (one <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://greatnonprofits.org/nonprofitnews/corporate-matching-gift-programs-money-unused/"> estimate is that $10 billion in matching funds</a> go to waste each year) we all, donors and charities, leave on the table, untouched.

<p>Weinger's latest guest article for About.com explains just what your charity can do to remind your donors of matching gift programs. Don't miss <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/fundraising/a/How-To-Promote-Employee-Matching-Gifts-To-Your-Donors.htm">How to Promote Employee Matching Gifts to Your Donors - 5 Strategies That Work</a>.

<p><b>Read more about matching gifts:</b>
<br /><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/fundraising/ss/7-Types-Of-Corporate-Giving-Programs.htm">7 Types of Corporate Giving Programs</a>
<br /><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/fundraising/a/Employee-Matching-Gift-Programs-What-They-Are-And-How-They-Work.htm">Employee Matching Gifts - What They Are and How They Work</a>

<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
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<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/3/G/-/-/sophie2.jpg" alt="SOFII Cartoon" />

<p>That awkward set of letters actually stands for "The Showcase of Fundraising Innovation and Inspiration." It's a British thing I think. Kinda awkward, a little bit frumpy, but James Bond sharp.

<p>If you've been into recent British dramas such as Mr. Selfridge, Call the Midwife, and The Bletchley Circle, then you'll love <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.sofii.org/">SOFII</a>.

<p>SOFII is the swipe file of all swipe files, where people who work in fundraising spill their secrets like foreign spies shot up with truth serum by MI-5.

<p>And the content isn't all British. SOFII is really global, with only one idea -- to make fundraising better, smarter and, I'll say it, more fun.

<p>What I love the most is the history. Ever wonder where the adopt-a-pet idea started, or what the great fundraising campaigns of yore looked like? SOFII is the place.

<p>Using SOFII and not promoting it enough has been nagging me forever. So here is my make up. Go check out <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.sofii.org/">SOFII</a>, sign up for the emails, and start swiping.

<p><i>Image: The cartoon above is actually part of a downloadable <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.sofii.org/promote-SOFII">bookmark</a> that SOFII uses for promotion.</i>

<p><b>Other Resources I Like:</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/resources/tp/toppubs.htm">Best Publications for Nonprofits</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/nonprofitwork/tp/jobwebsites.htm">Best Nonprofit Job Search Websites</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/volunteers/a/volulinks.htm">Guide to Volunteer Opportunities Online</a>
</ul>

<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
<br />Sign up for my <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm#rs">free email newsletter</a> and keep up to date with the latest nonprofit news, trends and tips.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/U/F/-/-/socialmediabutton.jpg" alt="Social Media Button" />
<p>I don't even think we're waiting for the verdict on this question. It's been in for a while. Facebook and other types of social media do work well for nonprofits.

<p>But smaller organizations that are pressed for time, money and know how still resist setting up a Facebook Page for their organizations. Are you being left behind?

<p>I won't say that Facebook is easy for nonprofits or for anyone setting up a brand page. But I do think that we are at the same point we were some years ago when there was still considerable doubt about setting up websites.

<p>The fact is that social media is not going away, and it's likely that the major players we see today are going to be around for a while. Plus, in a multichannel world, where people get their information from a variety of sources, playing the social media game is just as important as setting up a website, sending out press releases, and mailing out fundraising appeals.

<p>But Facebook should be your first stop if you have to choose where to start your social media journey. That's because your supporters are probably already there.

<p>If you're not already convinced, maybe <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/socialmedia/a/Why-Your-Nonprofit-Should-Be-On-Facebook.htm">7 Reasons Your Nonprofit Should Be on Facebook</a>, by guest author Julie Welles, will help tip the balance.

<p>If you do take the plunge, be prepared for a long road of hard work, learning, and experimentation. But it will be worth it and maybe even pretty exciting.

<p><i>Photo: Getty Images</i>

<p>Please join me on <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.facebook.com/AboutNonprofit">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://twitter.com/joannefritz">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.linkedin.com/in/joannef">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://plus.google.com/103089805226950587884/posts">Google+</a>.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/1/G/-/-/employeehappy.jpg" alt="A happy employee. Woman employee throwing arms in the air and smile on her face." />
<p>Every year "The NonProfitTimes" comes up with a list of the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.thenonprofittimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/BestPlacesToWork_20132.pdf"> Best Nonprofit Employers to Work For</a>. The list is not only a wonderful benchmark for other nonprofits, but it also provides excellent guidelines for anyone who desires a long-term career in the sector.

<p>The annual list of best nonprofits is the result of a competition by "The NonProfit Times." After being nominated for Best Nonprofit Employer, NPT gathers information about that organization's benefits and employment practices.

<p>Then a confidential survey is provided to the nominated organization's employees. That survey covers eight categories ranging from leadership and planning, to work environment, to employee engagement.

<p>Each organization is assigned a score based on the data gathered. The top 50 nonprofits are ranked, irrespective of size; and then sublists are compiled for small, medium and large employers.

<p>Check out the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.thenonprofittimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/BestPlacesToWork_20132.pdf">cover story about the 2013 list</a> that appeared in "The NonProfitTimes" in April. It provides a quick glance at who placed where and includes intriguing specifics about some of the top-ranked organizations.

<p>So what are the characteristics of great nonprofits? Here are three that pop out from this year's report:
<p><!--more-->
<ul>
<li><b>Caring about employees.</b> The number one nonprofit for two years running, the<a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/"> Wounded Warrior Project</a>, listened to its employees about burnout. They call it "compassion fatigue," and developed a workshop to address it. People who work in nonprofits often work long hours and on heart-breaking causes. They need to be nurtured. Nonprofits are in a perfect position to both understand and do something to bolster the spirits of their employees.

<p><li><b>Offering flexible benefits.</b> The <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.alz.org/">Alzheimer's Association</a> in Chicago, which ranked in the top 10 of this year's best nonprofits, was a leader in including elder care in its benefits package. More sensitive than most to this emerging need, the Association made it a hallmark of its approach to making it easier for employees to work and also care for loved ones.

<p><li><b>Living the mission.</b> People who work in nonprofit organizations usually have a vested interest in that particular cause. If they don't initially, they do eventually. That leads to longer tenures, as workers find fulfillment by combining passion and work. Great nonprofits live their missions. A good example is the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nrdc.org/">Natural Resource Defense Council</a>. It inhabits "green" buildings, employees drive "green" cars for work, and the organization's offices recycle ardently. NRDC is among the top 20 best nonprofits to work for.

</ul>

<p><b>Read more about nonprofit jobs:</b>

<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/nonprofitwork/a/Why-People-Want-To-Work-For-Nonprofits.htm">Why People Want to Work for Nonprofits</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/nonprofitwork/tp/gettingjob.htm">How to Find Your Dream Nonprofit Job</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/nonprofitwork/tp/jobwebsites.htm">Best Nonprofit Job Search Websites</a>
</ul>

<p><i>Photo: Getty Images</i>

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/A/F/-/-/bestlinks4.jpg" alt="Paper links." />

<p><b>Fundraising</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2013-04-24/bombing-victims-get-millions-as-social-media-redefine-charity">Bombing Victims Get Millions as Internet Redefines Giving</a> - Bloomberg Businessweek. Crises -- from Hurricane Sandy, to Sandy Hook, to the Boston Marathon attack -- continue to reshape fundraising. This article sums up the trends.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.frogloop.com/care2blog/2013/4/26/creating-a-virtuous-cycle-of-engagement-for-millennials.html">Creating a Virtuous Cycle of Engagement For Millennials</a> - Frogloop. What may be driving the changes in how people give is the influence of Millennials. They just engage with causes differently. Authors of a new book on Millennials suggest a ladder of engagement that is specific to them.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://pndblog.typepad.com/pndblog/2013/04/ten-ways-to-make-your-grantwriters-time-count-.html">Ten Ways to Make Your Grantwriter's Time Count</a> - Philantopic. Do you outsource your grant writing? Are you doing it right?
</ul>


<p><b>Social Media</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.johnhaydon.com/2013/04/five-creative-ways-thank-your-facebook-fans/">Five Creative Ways To Thank Your Facebook Fans</a> - John Haydon. Thanking isn't just for donations any more. People who engage with your organization on social media deserve a thank you too. Here are five ways to do that with your FB fans.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://gigaom.com/2013/04/24/pew-all-politics-isnt-social-just-yet-but-its-getting-there/">Pew: All politics isn't social just yet, but it's getting there</a> - GIGAOM. Causes are becoming more and more political. And getting more social. There's a merger going on here, and everyone's getting involved. This survey from Pew about civic engagement, politics, and social media is fascinating.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.bethkanter.org/spreadsheet-sm_re/">Now That's A Spreadsheet!</a> - Beth's Blog. From Crocodile Dundee to measuring your social media. Beth Kanter makes the leap with ease. If you want to know what a social media spreadsheet should look like, check out this post.

</ul>

<p><b>Marketing, Communications</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nonprofitmarketingguide.com/blog/2013/04/23/your-broccoli-their-cheese-deciding-on-your-core-topics/">Your Broccoli, Their Cheese: Deciding on Your Core Topics</a> - Kivi's Nonprofit Communications Blog. I love this take on a perennial problem for content creators. How do you get people to read what they need to when it's, well, a little boring? With cheese, and Kivi has all kinds of ideas about how to serve it up.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://smbirdbrain.blogspot.com/2013/04/creating-visual-quotes-for-your-small.html">Creating Visual Quotes for Your Small Nonprofit</a> - Social Media BirdBrain. Images with quotes superimposed on them are becoming popular on social media such as Facebook, but they are also useful on your website and in presentations. Here are some tips about how to create them.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.mpdailyfix.com/you-know-youre-a-marketer-if-slide-show/">You Know You're a Marketer If...</a> - MarketingProfs. A fun slideshow with cartoons. Do you recognize yourself? Nonprofiteers are in here too. My favorite is "You know you're a marketer if everything is a potential blog post."
</ul>
<p><i>Photo: Getty Images</i>
<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
<br />Sign up for my <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm#rs">free email newsletter</a> and keep up to date with the latest nonprofit news, trends and tips.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/z/F/-/-/talkingpoints.jpg" alt="Illustration of talking points." />

<p>Talking points aren't just for press conferences.

<p>When I attended my very first workshop to learn how to talk to the press, I thought that the tips were very interesting, but that I was unlikely to ever have to use them.

<p>I was so wrong about that, since my career carried me into several situations where I was indeed talking to reporters.

<p>What I didn't realize at the time either was just how useful the whole idea of talking points would be, and not just when working with the media.

<p>Of all the advice I've been given over the years, certainly "talking points" have turned out to be super valuable. You know how some things just become positive habits that you don't really have to think about but that stave off problems? Well, I have a talking points habit.

<p>Talking points are often derided, especially in the media, as robotic adherence to the "company line." And certainly they should never be that. Talking points should be your own, even if they begin with your lawyer or the PR department. When they just create "mouth pieces," they don't work.

<p>But, really. What is wrong with being prepared? And that is what talking points are really about. They are just a way to organize our thoughts and to get across the information that we want to convey even when our nerves are raw and distractions are mighty.

<p>And they shouldn't be elaborate either. A few one-word reminders written on a napkin will suffice in a pinch. The more detailed they are, the harder they are to manage. Extended talking points could have you flipping pages, looking for that wee piece of information, and generally ruining the look of cool and composed that you're after.

<p>I've used talking points in these situations:
<p><!--more-->
<ul>
<li><b>Job interviews.</b> Is there anything quite as nerve challenging as a job interview? Thinking ahead and jotting down the three or four things you want to leave with your prospective employer is a way of achieving some measure of control in an otherwise uncontrollable situation. Even if you're in an informational interview or enjoying a casual "coffee shop" meeting with a potential employer, talking points can keep you out of trouble. They work well too when you are the interviewer, and the same set can do across interviews with many candidates. You know those group interviews that are so prevalent in nonprofits? Talking points will help, whether you're on the hiring committee or the one being grilled.

<br /><br /><li><b>Media interviews.</b> You don't have to be in a crisis to find yourself at one end of an interview. It could be with your own in house editor/writer of your newsletter, the events reporter at your local newspaper inquiring about your spring auction, or a blogger asking for your best tips for volunteers. Writing down the top handful of ideas you want to say will put you at ease in a situation that, because it does seem casual, might lead you into wasting everyone's time with irrelevant or disjointed information. Use them whether you're interviewed in person, on the phone, or by video chat.

<br /><br /><li><b>Board meetings.</b> Whether you are on a nonprofit board or a staff member giving a report at a board meeting, jotting down what you want to say before you get there is invaluable. Whether you're giving a presentation with a jillion power point slides, or just anticipate being asked your opinion about the latest board policy, talking points will help put you at ease. Just the process of thinking about them and jotting them down can clarify your thinking.
</ul>

<p>Talking points. I never leave home (or office) without them. The best advice I ever got.

<p>Do you use some version of talking points? When and how? What are your tips?

<p>Never heard of talking points? Here is a good explanation: <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://marketing.about.com/od/publicrelation1/a/talkingpoints.htm">What Are Talking Points and How Do You Write Them?</a>

<p><b>Related:</b> <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/nonprofitpromotion/tp/crisistips.htm">Crisis Management for Nonprofits</a> - <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/mediarelations/tp/issuesmanagement.htm">10 Steps to a Nonprofit Issues Management Program</a>

<p><i>Photo: Getty Images</i>

<img class="alignnone" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/x/F/-/-/responsibility.jpg" alt="Road sign with the word "Responsibility."" />

<p>For board members, it's simple. The buck stops here.

That's the message from David Lansdowne, author of <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.emersonandchurch.com/books/fundraisingrealities.html">Fundraising Realities Every Board Member Must Face</a>.

<p>The second edition of this popular book is now available, and it's just as wonderful as the first one. Here's my <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/fundraising/fr/boardfundraise.htm"> review of it</a>.

<p>If your board, like many out there, is shirking its fundraising duties, this is the book you should buy for each member. Then organize a board meeting or retreat based on it.

<p>What will your board learn?
<ul>
<li>Well, for starters, they are in good company as board members. Lansdowne estimates that out of any random group of 100 adults, seven are likely to be serving on a nonprofit board.

<p><li>They are not alone either in disliking, if not actually fearing, asking people for money. Although fear of the ask doesn't appear on the Anxiety Disorders Association of America's list of the most common phobias (remember snakes, spiders, public speaking?), Lansdowne figures the ADAA simply had a momentary lapse when they did their research, overlooking this common anxiety.

<p><li>That boards have an obligation to give and to get. Sorry, folks, but when you sign on to a nonprofit board, that's where the buck stops. The financial well being of the organization is in your hands. And people won't have much inclination to give (and that means large donors and those people holding the purse strings of foundations) if you are not the first ones writing a check.
</ul>

<p>There's a whole lot in this tiny book. And its advice is clear, straight forward, hard hitting, and helpful. Your board members will learn what asking entails, how to do it well, and how to control fear of the ask.

<p>For nonprofit leaders, just know that training your board about their fundraising obligations and exactly how to approach and convert donors will result in more and bigger donations. You'll also learn exactly how to train your board, motivate them, and how to make their asking easier and more successful.

<p>The subtitle of "Fundraising Realities" is "A 1-Hour Crash Course on Raising Major Gifts for Nonprofit Organizations." The 1-hour is reality. The book is a quick read, and you'll be grateful to Lansdowne for distilling the basics down into such easy-to-grasp concepts.

<p><b>Read more about boards and fundraising:</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/b/2013/01/21/getting-sane-about-your-board-and-fundraising.htm">Getting Sane About Your Board and Fundraising</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/b/2012/11/28/research-turns-up-best-practices-for-board-fundraising.htm">Research Turns Up Best Practices for Board Fundraising</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/boardquestions/a/6-Questions-And-Answers-About-Your-Nonprofits-First-Board-Of-Directors.htm">Your Nonprofit's First Board of Directors</a>
</ul>

<p><i>Photo: iStockPhotos.</i>

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/v/F/-/-/cloudcomputing.jpg" alt="Laptop computers connected to the cloud." />

<p>Once you're over the hump of receiving your first grant award, you may find yourself in a flurry of paper. Now there are more proposals to do plus the task of managing the ones you already have.

<p>Many grants professionals still handle it all with Excel spreadsheets, online documents and calendars. But every year, it gets more time consuming, more confusing, and riskier. A mistake could jeopardize a chunk of support.

<p>Fortunately, now there are much more sophisticated tools, often residing "in the cloud" and integrated with multi-tasking fundraising software.

<p>Grants expert, Heather Stombaugh, explains why your organization need to get beyond Excel and gets specific about how to do it. Check out <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/writingagrantproposal/a/On-A-Cloud-New-Grants-Management-Options-For-The-21st-Century.htm">On a Cloud: New Grants Management Options for the 21st Century</a> for tips and three grants management systems you may want to investigate.

<p><b>Read more about grants:</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/Grantsfromfoundations/a/How-To-Use-Social-Media-To-Win-More-Grants-9-Tips-For-Success.htm">How to Use Social Media to Win More Grants</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/writingagrantproposal/a/8-Tips-For-More-Successful-Online-Grant-Applications.htm">More Successful Online Grant Applications</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/foundationfundinggrants/tp/grantproposalhub.htm">How to Write a Grant Proposal - Summary to Budget</a>
</ul>

<p><i>Photo: Getty Images</i>
<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
<br />Sign up for my <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm#rs">free email newsletter</a> and keep up to date with the latest nonprofit news, trends and tips.

<img class="alignnone" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/H/w/F/-/-/earthday2013.jpg" alt="Photo montage for Earth Day 2013" />

<p>I'm not sure only one Earth Day a year is going to cut it anymore.

<p>Climate change has gotten so scary that perhaps we should be doing one small thing for the earth every day and organizing volunteer events quarterly.

<p>This year Earth Day has overlapped with <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.pointsoflight.org/signature-events/national-volunteer-week">National Volunteer Week</a>...a happy event! So millions of people have merged the two and focused on environmental projects.

<p>Whatever you are doing for Earth Day this year, do go to <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.earthday.org/2013/">The Face of Climate Change</a> and share your photo about how climate change has affected your life.

<p>The <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.earthday.org/2013/"> Earth Day Network</a> wants to bring climate change to life by building a wall of photos that shows vividly that climate change is real, it's here, and it's affecting our lives right now.

<p>Photos can be of people, animals, places, or of actions taken. Take one of your family doing something good for the earth, of the event you are involved in, or of environmental damage that you can see. Add a caption that expresses your story.

<p>On Earth Day (April 22), all of these photos will become a mosaic that will be shown at Earth Day events across the planet.

<p>Photos can be uploaded on the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.earthday.org/2013/">Earth Day website</a>, or on Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #FaceOfClimate. Here is a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.earthday.org/2013/Resources/Sample%20Social%20Media%20-%20Face%20of%20Climate%20Change.pdf">page full of social media messages</a> you can send as well to raise awareness of Earth Day.

<p><b>Read more about Earth Day:</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://greenliving.about.com/od/greenprograms/a/earth_day_history.htm">The Story of the First Earth Day</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://animals.about.com/od/wildlifeconservation/tp/wildlifeconserv.htm">Top 10 Wildlife Conservation Organizations</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://childparenting.about.com/od/spring/a/earthdaykids.htm">Earth Day Activities for Kids and Families</a>
</ul>

<p><i>Photo: Earth Day Network</i>

<p>Please join me on <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.facebook.com/AboutNonprofit">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://twitter.com/joannefritz">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.linkedin.com/in/joannef">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://plus.google.com/103089805226950587884/posts">Google+</a>.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/u/F/-/-/boston.jpg" alt="Boston" />
<p>Monday was such a sad day. To see an iconic event such as the Boston Marathon turned into a scene of terror was gut and heart wrenching.

<p>Those of us connected to the nonprofit world feel particularly upset, because so many participants were running to raise money for a cause. Athletic events have become a staple of nonprofit fundraising, and these events have been a boon to the sector. But most of all, "thons" bring people together in a community effort. It's just such an American thing to do.

<p>Most of us have run, walked, or biked for a cause at some point. The events are usually joyous, fun, and social events that we remember forever.

<p>Now...will we be forever looking over our shoulders? Let's hope not.

<p>All event organizers will now reconsider their security measures, of course. But, after we take those precautions, let's return to one of our favorite things and keep running, walking, and biking together for the social good.

<p>Here are some blog posts about the Boston tragedy that informed and inspired me:

<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://social.razoo.com/2013/04/how-to-help-the-victims-of-the-boston-explosion/">How to Help the Victims of the Boston Explosion</a> - Joe Waters, Inspiring Generosity.
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/04/15/177378241/online-tools-help-people-connect-after-boston-marathon-bombing?ft=1&f=1001&sc=tw">Online Tools Help People Connect After Boston Marathon Bombing</a> - Bill Chappell, NPR
<li><a a href="http://gettingattention.org/2013/04/tragedy-nonprofit-marketing/">How to Communicate In The Midst Of Tragedy: 9-Step Checklist</a> - Nancy Schwartz, Getting Attention.
</ul>

<p>I also updated my article about <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/nonprofitpromotion/tp/crisistips.htm">how to prepare your nonprofit for a crisis</a>. The key is to not put off planning for a bad situation. Now is a good time to think about your plans.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/p/F/-/-/donorretentioninfographic4.JPG" alt="Infographic showing why donors leave." />

<p><b>Fundraising</b>
<ul>

<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://fundraisingcoach.com/2013/04/15/guest-post-why-donors-stop-giving/">Improve Donor Retention by Knowing Why Donors Leave</a> - Jay Love guest posting at Fundraising Coach. An infographic and post that sums up all you need to know about why your donors ditch you, plus some ideas about how to stop the pain.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://101fundraising.org/2013/04/return-on-fundraising-talent/?utm_source=feedly">Return on (fundraising) Talent</a> - 101Fundraising. The field of fundraising has terrible churn. Are we paying enough attention to developing our development staff?


<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.futurefundraisingnow.com/future-fundraising/2013/04/easy-social-proof-for-your-donors.html">Easy social proof for your donors</a> - Future Fundraising Now. Jeff Brooks reveals the psychology of social proof and demonstrates it with a real world example.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.adminbandit.com.au/are-your-board-members-involved-in-fundraising/">Are your board members involved in fundaising?</a> - Admin Bandit. A sneak peek at an upcoming report reveals that boards don't seem to want to talk about fundraising, pretty much leaving it all up to the CEO.
</ul>
<p><!--more-->
<p><b>Social Media</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.socialfish.org/2013/04/cool-infographic-friday-facebook-page-growth-rates.html">Facebook Page Growth Rates</a> - SocialFish. Ever despair over how slowly your "fans" grow on your Facebook page? Well, at least you're not alone. Here is a rather striking infographic that shows the stats. It's not a pretty picture.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nonprofitfacebookguy.com/five-ways-to-dominate-the-news-feed/">Five Ways to Dominate The News Feed</a> - The Facebook Guy (John Haydon). Facebook has changed the newsfeed...again. John explains how your nonprofit can thrive.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://socialnicole.com/social-media-spring-cleaning/">Social Media Spring Cleaning!</a> - Social Nicole. This is a great reminder and how-to about properly maintaining your social media. You have to admit, it becomes a bit of a mess if you don't keep organizing.
</ul>
<p><b>Marketing, PR, Communications</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.thewakemanagency.com/blog/five-simple-ways-make-reporter-your-bff">Five Simple Ways to Make a Reporter your BFF</a> - The Wakeman Agency. Many folks in nonprofits fear reporters way more than making an ask. No need, says this post, if you follow these tips.

<p><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofitorgs.wordpress.com/2013/04/14/nonprofitenewsletters/">Three Nonprofit e-Newsletters to Subscribe To and Learn From</a> - Nonprofit Tech 2.0. Marketers know that their email lists are their bread and butter. Even though some recent research suggests that people may not be responding as well as they used to, it's not time to pass on those email newsletters. Here are some examples of good ones.

<p><li><a a href="http://www.jeffbullas.com/2013/04/15/how-to-unleash-the-power-of-content/">How to Unleash the Power of Content</a> - Jeff Bullas. I love this mini-tutorial from Jeff. Suitable for any kind of marketer, business or nonprofit, Jeff pinpoints why content is so important, how to make yours zing, and the types of content you should be writing.

</ul>


<p><i>Image: <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://bloomerang.co/resources/">Bloomerang</a> Infographic</i>
<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
<br />Sign up for my <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm#rs">free email newsletter</a> and keep up to date with the latest nonprofit news, trends and tips.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/n/F/-/-/dogoodervideo2013.png" alt="Logo for YouTube's DoGooder Video Competition" />
<p>There was a time when cause-related public service announcements were at the mercy of the TV networks. They were shown free of charge, but only when there was free time...often at odd hours that made one wonder if they really had any impact.

<p>Now there is YouTube, with billions of viewers and the ability for nonprofits to even have their own "channels" stocked with their videos. It's a new world, and good causes have discovered the power a video can pack.

<p>To its credit, for the past four years, YouTube has recognized the best of cause-related videos with a special crowd-sourced and crowd-approved contest - the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.youtube.com/user/nonprofitvideoawards">DoGooder Video Awards</a>.

<p>This year nearly 1,000 videos were submitted for the competition. A panel of experts chose four finalists in four categories, and then the public voted for their favorites. The winners were announced at the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nten.org/ntc">NTEN 2013 Conference</a> in Minneapolis, April 11-14.
<p><!--more-->
<p><img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/o/F/-/-/frogvideo.JPG" alt="Video from Rainforest Alliance - Winner of DoGooder Video Award" />

<p><p>Here are the four winners of the 2013 annual DoGooder Video Awards:

<ul>
<li>In the "Best Non-Profit Video" category, the Rainforest Alliance won for "Follow the Frog." <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=3iIkOi3srLo#!">View here</a>.
<p><li>For "Change Agent Award" (given to an individual for best storytelling for a cause) the winner was Raf Bauer for "350km Message for Women with Ovarian Cancer." <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=V5E2L-1X9Gs">View here</a>.
<p><li>The "Funny for Good Award" went to Pathfinder International for "No Joke. Choice. Matters. Everywhere." <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=K1ehTv2pR4Q">View here</a>.
<p><li>The "Impact Award," went to the Sabin Vaccine Institute's "END7: How to Shock a Celebrity." <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=sYimJKg9QiE">View here</a>.
</ul>

<p>The DoGooder Video Awards are presented by <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.youtube.com/user/nonprofitvideoawards/nonprofitvideoawards">YouTube</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.see3.com/video-resources">See3 Communications</a>, and the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nten.org/ntc">Nonprofit Technology Network (NTEN)</a>. The awards are sponsored by <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.cisco.com/">Cisco Systems</a>.

<p>The winners receive $3500 in prizes from Cisco, a featured spot on YouTube and free registration to NTEN's 2014 Nonprofit Technology Conference.

<p>Read more about <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/socialmedia/a/How-To-Market-Your-Nonprofit-On-Youtube.htm">how nonprofits can market their causes on YouTube</a>.

<p>Please join me on <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.facebook.com/AboutNonprofit">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://twitter.com/joannefritz">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.linkedin.com/in/joannef">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://plus.google.com/103089805226950587884/posts">Google+</a>.

<img class="alignnone" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/H/m/F/-/-/bankofamerica2.JPG" alt="Facebook update by Bank of America promoting nonprofits on corporate Times Square billboard" />

<p>Love the bank or hate it, you gotta enjoy the parade of noprofits on Bank of America's billboard in Time's Square last weekend.

<p>The bank featured its charity partners, including the Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries, Vital Voices, Feeding America, Just Food, United Way Worldwide, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Year Up, Wounded Warrior Project, CURE Epilepsy, Citizen's Committee for New York City, Police Athletic League.

<p>Osocio did a nice write up of it all in this <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://osocio.org/message/nonprofits_in_the_full_glare_on_times_square/">blog post</a>. That's how I found out about it. Oscio follows the advertising and marketing trends in nonprofit.

<p>One really nice aspect of this promotion was the inclusion of social media info right on the ads, but also the way Bank of America promoted it on their <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://www.facebook.com/BankofAmerica">Facebook page</a>.

<p>There, they encouraged readers to go to the Facebook pages of the various organizations and like them. Nice touch! I snipped a shot of one of the Bank's updates featuring the Special Olympics. The name of the organization is a hotlink to its Facebook page.

<p>There is also a terrific montage featuring the bank's nonprofit partners on its <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://about.bankofamerica.com/en-us/index.html#fbid=o6gdGN2-NbK">corporate website here</a>. Notice the insets featuring Vital Voices and Year Up.

<p>The whole promotion is a nice piece of <a href=""http://nonprofit.about.com/od/c/g/csr.htm">corporate social responsibility</a>, brings visibility to some excellent nonprofit organizations, and maybe helps Bank of America with its own reputation. A win-win.

<p>Read more about CSR, cause related marketing and sponsorships here:

<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/c/g/csr.htm">What Is Corporate Social Responsibility?</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/causerelatedmarketing/ss/How-To-Find-A-Cause-Marketing-Business-Partner.htm">How to Find a Cause Marketing Business Partner</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/causerelatedmarketing/qt/sponsormotivation.htm">Why Do Companies Like to Sponsor Charitable Events?</a>
</ul>
<p>Please join me on <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.facebook.com/AboutNonprofit">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://twitter.com/joannefritz">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.linkedin.com/in/joannef">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://plus.google.com/103089805226950587884/posts">Google+</a>.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/l/F/-/-/robinhoodhurricanvols2.jpg" alt="Robin Hood Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund volunteers helping clean to up." />

<p>The <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.robinhood.org/rhsandy"> Robin Hood Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund</a> (part of the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.robinhood.org/">Robin Hood Foundation</a>) has been one of the most successful fundraisers in the aftermath of last fall's massive storm.

<p>The <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://brooklyn.about.com/b/2012/12/18/12-12-12-sandy-concert-raised-50-million-for-relief-recovery-largest-ever-concert-at-madison-square-garden.htm">Concert for Sandy Relief</a> on December 12, 2012 raised $50 million to address the after effects of the storm in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut areas.

<p>But Robin Hood raised even more money, bringing the total to $70.5 million.

<p>Now, the fund has finished paying out 100% of the money raised, making 494 grants to 391 organizations involved in helping communities and individuals recover from the devastating storm. The Robin Hood Relief Fund's board of directors pays all overhead costs of raising the money they grant. That's why all of the money raised actually goes to the grantees.


<p>Here are some stats from the organization's press release:
<ul>
<li>44% of the funds went to organizations in New Jersey, 38% to New York City, 16% to Long Island/NY state, and 2% to Connecticut.
<li>57% of the funds went to housing-related programs
<li>the Concert for Sandy Relief brought in contributions from 260,000 individuals from 90 countries. The concert was the most successful relief concert in history.
</ul>

<p>A complete list of all grants made, their geographic distribution, and additional information can be found at the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.robinhood.org/rhsandy">Robin Hood Foundation site</a>.

<p>Read more about disaster relief at <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/safecharitablegiving/qt/Dos-And-Do-Not-Of-Helping-During-A-Disaster.htm">The Dos and Don'ts of Helping in a Disaster</a>.

<p><i>Photo: Volunteers cleaning up after the storm. Courtesy of the Robin Hood Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund</i>

<p>Please join me on <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.facebook.com/AboutNonprofit">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://twitter.com/joannefritz">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.linkedin.com/in/joannef">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=https://plus.google.com/103089805226950587884/posts">Google+</a>.

<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/k/F/-/-/imagesreportcover.jpg" alt="Cover of Seeing Is Believing" />

<p>The latest guide to using imagery to promote your cause is one of the best I've seen. It is <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.resource-media.org/visual-story-lab/report/#prettyPhoto">Seeing Is Believing</a> from VisualStoryLab by Resource Media. You can download it free of charge.

<p>I like this guide especially because it not only showcases some wonderful images but lays out its tips clearly and effectively. Here are some that I thought were particularly helpful:

<ul>
<li><b>Don't just trust your own emotional reaction</b> to a particular image. It might well mean something very different to someone else. It could in fact contradict the message you hope to convey. So test it before you send it out to everyone.
<li><b>Combine images with words</b> for a bigger impact and more stickiness.
<li><b>Be specific, not generic</b>. Stock images are generic. Your own images are much more likely to be authentic.
<li><b>Record images constantly</b>. Your organization must get set up to capture images of all the people and activities that matter in your work. Once recorded, store them in an organized way so you can retrieve them easily
<li><b>Go first for people and emotions</b>. We're wired to respond to faces, especially eyes.
</ul>

<p>The Visual Storytelling Guide also explains how to craft your visual goals, develop your cause's visual story, and shares a checklist for you to follow.

<p>Check out <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.resource-media.org/visual-story-lab/report/#prettyPhoto">this guide</a> before you take or use another image.

<p>Thanks to <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nonprofitmarketingblog.com/comments/must_see_fabulous_guide_to_visual_storytelling">Katya Andresen</a> for pointing me to this resource.

<p>Read more about images at <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/b/2013/03/06/emmas-5-tips-for-better-email-images.htm">Emma's 5 Tips for Better Email Images</a>

<p><i>Image: Cover of Seeing Is Believing</i>
<p><b>About.com Nonprofit Charitable Orgs Newsletter</b>
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<img class="alignright" src="http://0.tqn.com/h/nonprofit/1/3/i/F/-/-/socialmediareciprocity.jpg" alt="Signs with various hand signals signifying reciprocity on social media." />

<p>When it comes to social media, we all talk a lot about growing our follower lists, expanding our reach, setting goals, and ROI.

<p>But social media should also build a sense of gratitude in us. When I find new friends, professsional resources, or wonderful examples of organizations and people doing good work, that always makes me happy and grateful. I want to help those folks achieve their goals. So I try to engage in reciprocity.

<p>Practicing reciprocal actions on our social networks is just the right thing to do. It also results in those favors being returned which does help us reach our social media goals. But, really, it can and maybe should also be something we just do because it's right and is part of being a responsible member of the social media universe.

<p>Maybe I'm thinking about this because I recently read a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/31/magazine/is-giving-the-secret-to-getting-ahead.html?smid=pl-share">New York Times article</a> about Adam Grant. Grant is a professor of organizational psychology, and is an "extreme giver" like some people are extreme athletes.

<p>Grant's new book is " <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://www.amazon.com/Give-Take-Revolutionary-Approach-Success/dp/0670026557">Give and Take</a>." I'm pretty sure I could never match Grant's energy and will to help people, but the idea of that kind of giving resonated for me. It's not just about giving to get. It's also about doing nice stuff for and with others. Interestingly, that giving sets off a spiral of goodness. Reciprocity begets reciprocity. A lesson that great fundraisers know and practice very well.

<p>Anyway, here's what I've been doing lately to reciprocate for the interactions I experience on social media.
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<p>I've always thanked people who retweet my content, but lately I've gone beyond that. Now, when I send a thanking tweet, I also check out the Twitter page of that person or organization. I follow if I don't already. I also use the list of new followers that I receive from Twitter every day or so.

<p> I check out the person's website and go to their Facebook page if they have one and "like" it. I may subscribe to the organization's blog or newsletter if it looks interesting and helpful.

<p>And I do this irregardless of the number of followers that person or org has or their Klout score, or whether the name is a recognizable brand. After all, these actions should be not only reciprocal but fairly selfless. Otherwise their happiness and gratitude quotient, I'm guessing, won't be that great.

<p>I don't do this every time or even every day, but I try to pick out several retweeters or new followers for this gesture of reciprocity a few times a week. I do this during slow times, such as in the evenings or maybe on the weekends.

<p>I start with Twitter simply because that is where I'm most active. But you could start anywhere. On Google+, for instance, you could check out the people who have left a comment or given you a +1. On Facebook, pick out a couple of updates in your news feed and go check out those people on other social media or at their blogs.

<p>The idea is to go beyond just the usual reciprocal gesture to something that is deeper and more lasting. If you're following someone on one social network, why not do so on the others you frequent? It also helps spread the love around. Someone might have a pretty solid Twitter following but a dismal one on Facebook, or their Pinterest boards might open up another fabulous source for you.

<p>Just since I've been practicing this deeper engagement, I've found some really nice resources and people. For instance, thanking and then checking led me to <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://bikestylespokane.com/about-the-quest/about-barb-chamberlain/">Barb Chamberlain's blog</a> who works in the biking movement. Her personal website led me to the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://bicyclealliance.org/"> Bicycle Alliance of Washington</a>. I hadn't really thought about the entire nonprofit biking sector at all. It opened up a whole new territory for me.

<p>Really, reciprocating can lead you down some interesting paths. That's why you may need to limit it to a handful of people or organizations per week.

<p>Will this pay off professionally? Frankly, I don't really care. I'm doing it because it makes me feel good. And it's just really interesting!

<p>What do you do to reciprocate on social media? Do you have any system? How does it apply to your supporters, such as volunteers and donors, on social media? Let me know in the comments.

<p><b>Read more:</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/od/socialmedia/a/The-Lazy-Persons-Guide-To-More-Social-Media-Action.htm">The Lazy Person's Guide to Social Media Management</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://womeninbusiness.about.com/od/marketingpsychology/a/prineciprocity.htm">The Principle of Reciprocity and How it Applies to Business</a>
<li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&zu=http://nonprofit.about.com/b/2012/02/20/a-receipt-is-not-a-thank-you-online-donors-vs-online-buyers.htm">A Receipt Is Not a Thank You: Online Donors vs Online Buyers</a>
</ul>

<p><i>Photo: Hiroshi Watanabe/Getty Images</i>

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