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Social Media Really Makes a Difference - Moms for a Cure!
Congratulations are most definitely in order for the "Moms For a Cure" Team, headed by Ari Jones, named Saturday as the 2009 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Woman of the Year for the National Capitol Area! Ari and her team managed to raise more contributions ($139,000) over the past few months than all other local competitors in this very highly visible and important annual event. Beyond Ari's incredible energy and leadership, her team's countless volunteer hours, and of course the direct generosity of donors large and small - what may have made the difference was the synergy of online and offline activities, communication and marketing.
The Moms For A Cure online presence not only made ample use of their website, but also many social media tools and forums; from Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter, to Blogs, Discussions, Emails, Online News and Magazine Outlets and Internet Marketing techniques. It's fast becoming standard and required practice for nonprofit organizations and charities, for maximum online fundraising outcomes, to orchestrate and coordinate offline efforts with smart, extensive social-media driven online campaigns.
Very unique and creative fundraising tactics are easier and cheaper to implement with Web 2.0 technology and social media forums, from online raffles (like those run by our local Paws4People Foundation) to online pledging campaigns. Additionally, it's far less expensive and time-consuming to manage donors and contacts using such tools. Corporate sponsors and donors also find it easier to promote their involvement and harness their own online marketing machines to supplement the direct cash value of donations, attracting even more donors. What's most important for success with social media fundraising campaigns appears to be the motivation and energy of the promoters, and the consistent, orchestrated strategy of smart social media use.
Upcoming interesting events to consider - (yes, promoted via social media!)
Northern Virginia Summer BrewFest - a Celebration of American Beer! - June 27-28, Morven Park, Leesburg VA (Loudoun County) - sponsored by Vintage 50 Restaurant and Brew Lounge.
Maryland's 375th Birthday Celebration Weekend - June 19-21, St. Mary's College and Historic St. Mary's city - celebrate Maryland's birthday with all kinds of celebration activities, music, food, exhibits - sponsored in part by Cherry Cove Land Development and Southern Maryland Hotels.
-Kelly
@loudoun
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