A Little Social Good

Over the last decade, I’ve worked with dozens of clients, from large companies to small non-profits. A few months back, I began to wonder if I couldn’t do more for for the local organizations in my community and beyond.

After seeing the success of a local fundraising initiative here in Rochester, I saw the amazing potential of what everyday folks can do if you just simply ask. Even more amazing is that sharing good deeds can actual inspire others to do the same.
So I started working on a concept. Something that would let organizations large and small, take advantage of all the tools the internet has to offer. Not just to extend their reach, but to engage those who are already engaging.

While researching the nonprofit industry, I’ve come across a wealth of information. Different fundraising campaigns, volunteer recruitment strategies and donor statistics. It’s often difficult to make sense of it all, however one thing is clear: People are beginning to think outside the box and it’s resulting in some pretty awesome stuff. People are coming up with new ideas and ways of engaging both potential donors as well as entire communities.

FirstGiving is a fantastic resource for regular folks to do some pretty amazing things. It’s a site that allows individuals to raise money for their favorite nonprofits securely, connecting family and friends to help you reach your goals. Beyond that, they maintain a blog that is loaded with ideas for fundraisers. From Community Cook-Offs to Dance Marathons, these events will surely kick things up a notch! Once people are engaged and having fun, they’re much more likely to share that positive experience with friends and family.

Speaking of positive experiences, has someone made you smile lately? Sometimes something as simple as a smile can brighten your entire day. That’s the idea behind The Smile Exchange, a website started by a gentleman here in Upstate NY.

“It’s simple. You or someone you know performs an act of kindness. You post it for the world to see. You make people smile. You feel good too. It’s contagious…in a good way.”
- The Smile Exchange

When you start to see the impact of something as simple as a smile, it helps you understand that individuals have the power to inspire. Inspire goodness, conversation and most importantly, action from their fellow peers and beyond.

I am continuing to work on my project (during all of that spare time I have) and will keep you posted on what I’m up to from time to time.

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