Spread the Word
On one hand I am saddened to read the many stories published with BlackbaudNow. The are very personal and occasionally tragic events that have transpired. On the other hand, I am thrilled that Blackbaud is able to provide individuals a voice to their personal causes and help in some very small way. It is this delicate balance that each of us walk every day as we delve into our passions of the nonprofit world.
In fact, I recently had the opportunity to review a list of users for BlackbaudNow (800+ and growing) and was surprised to read that many of the them (north of 50%) are personal fundraisers. Basically, you and me who are raising money on behalf of a charity or personal cause. To that end, I wanted to spend a moment sharing a story from a BlackbaudNow user that helped them raise more money for their personal cause.
As mentioned above, some of these stories are very tragic. Here someone was killed after a Phillies game inPhiladelphia, PA. The family members while stricken with grief needed a way to raise money quickly and used BlackbaudNow to simplify the giving process. This sad story ultimately reached the local news and an article was published online. That simple placement in the local newspaper (print or online) provided a kick to their fundraising well beyond the creation of the BlackbaudNow site alone. That article was simply a communication to the public about a personal tragedy that helped spread the word!
In BlackbaudNow, we have provided email tools so that you can spread the word to your friends, family, colleagues, donors, etc in email and have that communication saved you know who you have already touched. However, do not stop there find other ways to share your story --- flyers, speak with your local newspaper, etc
In closing, I challenge everyone to spend 5 minutes to expand your voice for your cause right now --- it will make a difference! As always, if you have any product suggestions or simply want to share a great story about online fundraising please do not hesitate to email me at kirk.sadler@blackbaud.com.
Happy Fundraising!