Technology can be a powerful tool for New Jersey-based nonprofits, but only if it is used correctly. This is because technology can be quite costly, and spending on the wrong tools can seriously hurt any nonprofit’s cause.
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Fortunately, there are many low-cost, and even free, tech tools these days for a variety of uses. Just make sure to research which tools will work best for your organization, and don't be afraid to ask for help from others in the nonprofit community. With the right tools, such as the following, you can successfully increase the growth and positive impact of your nonprofit.
With the right tools, you can successfully increase the growth and positive impact of your nonprofit
Social media
Many nonprofit organizations love the idea of using social media to spread the word about their cause and engage with those they're trying to help. But just like other companies, nonprofits often struggle with focusing their limited resources on what they should be doing rather than what they'd love to do.
This is where low-cost or free tools can come in handy and make a big impact for your nonprofit.
How can my nonprofit use social media?
Here's how to get your nonprofit's message out using social media and make every effort count:
Start online movements
Nonprofits can use social media to start online movements and petitions to help support their cause. They can also use social media to spread the word about their programs and events, while also engaging with current supporters on a more personal level.
Crowdsource and crowd share information
Nonprofits can ask their supporters to send photos, videos, and testimonials that capture how their work is making a difference. These media can then be shared on platforms like Facebook to help drive support and build awareness. Nonprofits can also use social media to gather fundraising ideas and solicit feedback from their supporters.
Request assistance and ask for donations
Nonprofits can use social media to request assistance and ask for donations, especially during specific fundraising drives or events such as fun runs and galas. These channels can also be used to provide updates on how donations are being used.
Livecast events and locations
Nonprofits can use Facebook Live, Periscope, or Instagram Live to livecast events such as concerts, telethons, and demonstrations, allowing people to experience these events in real time. It’s also a great way to show supporters exactly where their efforts are being spent.
What social media platforms can my nonprofit use?
TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are the big three social media networks that have the most potential for nonprofits. These platforms offer key differences in how you can reach your target audience.
TikTok
TikTok is a social media app that lets users create and share short videos with each other. Nonprofits can use TikTok to share short videos about their work, post teasers for upcoming events, and create call-to-action videos.
Nonprofits can use Instagram to post photos and videos of their cause with a link back to their website. This platform can also be used to post behind-the-scenes pictures and videos of events and staff. What's more, features such as Instagram Live lets nonprofits broadcast events in real time, while the Poll feature enables nonprofits to create Polls and collect data.
Nonprofits can use Facebook to create a Page where they can post updates about their work, share photos and videos, and run ads. Facebook also allows nonprofits to create Events for their supporters to attend or Groups for their supporters to join. And to communicate with their supporters, nonprofits can utilize Facebook's instant messaging app, Messenger.
Short messaging services
Short messaging services (SMS) can be used for text-blasting important messages such as disaster alerts, weather occurrences, rescue meetup locations, fundraiser announcements, and more. SMS is a great way to reach people on every kind of mobile device, including cell phones that are unable to access social media sites.
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Remote tools
Nonprofits can use tools that enable remote collaboration to allow supporters to take part in the cause without even leaving their home. With apps like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams, supporters can volunteer, make donations, and share content from their computer or mobile device, wherever they may be. Nonprofits can also use these tools to connect with more people and help drive more support for their cause.
Set your nonprofit organization up for success with an IT backbone that can maximize the potentials of low-cost technology. Contact Online Computers today to learn more about our services.
