Blogging to Success

With the internet age firmly in place, more and more charities are jumping into the realm of blogging to stay in touch with the world. There are several reasons listed below why blogging is a great opportunity for your group to reach out, while keeping these few tips in mind to make sure your message is put in the best format.
What is a ‘blog’ anyway?
A ‘blog’ is an online journal, or a weblog, that allows the author to write snippets of ideas, full journal entries, or comment and discuss any given subject that matters to them.

Reasons to blog

• Connect in real time with the public and your supporters (no need to wait for the next mailing of your newsletter)
• Share behind the scenes stories about your group
• Reach out to a younger generation who thrives on blogs and constant contact
• Give regular updates on fundraising events, emergent needs, and successes
• Other charities and nonprofits are already blogging, and connecting with YOUR donors, YOUR volunteers, YOUR public! Don’t be left behind!

Things to consider when starting your blog

• Decide who will do the writing, whether it’s the Board President, the Director, or the Volunteer Coordinator.
• Determine if the author will write in their own voice, in the voice of a rescued animal or office mascot, or from the charity in general.
• Be sure to use positive voice when writing. Express needs in a manner that denotes success is imminent.
• Stay away from being critical of another group, of politicians, or of local citizens. Once items have been written and posted to the web, they’re out there for everyone to see forever, even after they have been deleted.
• Use the connection with your public responsibly. Don’t invade their inboxes daily, or scream for more money at every turn.
• Blogging should not replace your regular newsletters, direct mail pieces, or face to face interactions with donors and volunteers. Your blog should be considered another tool in your media toolbox.

Use the internet as a means to stay in touch with your community members, giving them the most updated info on your group’s successes and current needs. Your fundraising can be intricately linked to your blog. Donors give to groups they feel connected to, and blogging is one method to keep your friends up to date.