Could MySpace and Facebook could help you raise money for your nonprofit’s mission? Maybe- but probably only if you are trying to reach a younger demographic- and as I posted in a previous article, you might want to start reaching out to the younger generations for two reasons. First, a recent study by Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University suggests that young people might be more philanthropic than most nonprofits think, and second, because cultivating relationships with young donors may pay off in the long term.

An article in today's Philanthropy Journal makes a case for social networks and reaching out to young donors.

The article notes, "Targeting such movements by engaging youth on their own territory can be lucrative, say groups like the Bridge to Turkiye Fund, which raised $17,000 in a matter of weeks through Facebook donations of only $10 and $20."

Though social networks may work to engage young donors, it seems that when targeting donors in their 30s or older (those, who the article states, are the majority of online donors), it isn’t the most effective strategy.

Check out the whole article on Philanthropy Journal’s Web site, which is one of a two-part series. To read part one, click here.

Have a great weekend!

Jacqui Higgins
NOZA