How to Use Social Media to Make a Difference

Social media has a multitude of uses and benefits. Make friends, promote a product, update family on your life, stay in touch with college roommates…the list can go on and on. There are practically endless possibilities to what you can do with social media. In fact, did you know you can even use social media to make a difference in the world?

It’s true. As technology has developed, social media has gradually begun to earn its place in the nonprofit sector. Volunteers, donors and community members alike have all used social media to share about a cause close to their hearts, and make an impact for an organization they love. So, do you want to embrace social networking to have a positive influence on the world? Here are some ideas for how to use social media to make a difference.

1. Raise awareness.
Social media has an incredible ability to raise awareness about causes you care about. Oftentimes, people simply don’t know about various problems or issues around the U.S. or the world. Social networking platforms are a great outlet to share information and knowledge you have about these matters. Post statistics, videos, infographics and other material to inform people about the cause you care about, so they can learn more and get involved.

2. Use your birthday.
Some social media sites will let you create a fundraising campaign for your birthday through their platform. For example, Facebook lets users create a donation campaign and send out messages to friends for their birthday, asking them to give. Facebook will even cover the credit card processing fees when you create the campaign through their platform. So if you have a birthday coming up, consider how you can leverage it for good.

3. Ask for donations.
Even if your birthday isn’t coming up, social media is still a great source to ask for donations from friends or family. Chances are, you’ve done some fundraising throughout your life. Whether it was in elementary school or just last year, you have a bit of experience asking for donations. Take advantage of your social media account by sharing donation pages, nonprofit information and asking others to give to the causes you care about.

4. Share about volunteering.
Of course, some people in your life might not be able to donate at the moment. But that doesn’t mean they can’t still get involved! If you’re connected with a specific nonprofit, share about upcoming volunteering opportunities or positions available. Even if it’s a short-term volunteering stint, people in your life can still join in and learn about important causes within their community.

5. Tell stories.
People respond well to stories. Fortunately, social media is all about storytelling. As you ask for donations, volunteers or share information, be sure to tell a story. Explain the mission behind the nonprofit, tell about a client they helped (respecting confidentiality of course) or talk about what the cause means to you. Why do you care about the cause? The more you share your own experiences, the more other friends can envision themselves in your shoes.

6. Promote the organization.
Social networking sites are also excellent platforms to use for promoting. Similar to raising awareness for a cause, you can advocate for a nonprofit organization in your community. Like a charity’s Facebook page, follow them on social networking sites, share their posts, advertise upcoming events and encourage others to learn more. As you promote the organization, more people will want to get involved and join your efforts.

Social media has a multitude of benefits and uses, including the ability to make a difference. If you want to have a positive impact on the world around you, consider how you can use social media. Keep these ideas in mind the next time you’re scrolling through your newsfeed and want to get involved for good.