I have picked up a new website to follow – trendwatching.com - they have had some very interesting perspectives lately.  Specifically the idea of Generation G – not so much a specific cohort but a movement that “Captures the growing importance of ‘generosity’ as a leading societal and business mindset. As consumers are disgusted with greed and its current dire consequences for the economy—and while that same upheaval has them longing more than ever for institutions that care—the need for more generosity beautifully coincides with the ongoing (and pre-recession) emergence of an online-fueled culture of individuals who share, give, engage, create and collaborate in large numbers”  – the online world provides the tools that makes all that easier than ever to do. 

As I read through the article I came  away with a few conclusions -

1) as nonprofits create online presences we need to remember that it isn’t only about us but about them – our constituents; how many different ways can we help them be “generous” in support of our cause?  donations? volunteer? call congress? attend an event? don’t attend an event?  fill out a survey?

and

2) face it, it is part of the human condition (except for the Dalai Lama) to want to be seen being generous – we all want acknowledgement.  So how does our website/facebook page/linked in account provide recognition for those who do give us money or time or whatever action we have asked for?

so go back to your online worlds and ask yourself “how many ways do I ask for help?” and “how do I provide public recognition for those who do pony up?”.

to read the whole article go here –

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Blog by Joyce