In the past when a natural disaster occurred either a massive benefit was held or it remained that countries problem. However, since the emergence of social media and advancements in technology, it is becoming easier to make a difference. Between text message donations, celebrities tweeting about which organization they just donated to, and Facebook offering a place for causes and charities the opportunities were endless. There were some creative endeavors that deserve some mention and will hopefully inspire further involvement.
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This visual bogging site did a completely personal campaign for their members. They encouraged members to donate to the cause, and in return would receive a mini Japanese flag on their profile picture. Therefore, whenever this member popped up on someone’s feed, they would see that a contribution had been made.
- American Red Cross:
- The American Red Cross has really stepped up its game. In the wake of this disaster, Red Cross has been a name we would trust with any donation amount. Their Facebook page allows fans to donate right there, to text a donation, and invite friends to the cause. Once you have donated your name and donation amount will show on their running tally, and you will receive a Badge for your profile.
- Celebs all a Twitter
- It didn’t take long for celebrities to start donating and raising awareness. In the past, huge benefit concerts were held, or telethons with various celebrities using their puppy eyes and pleading you to donate. It was all rather lavish and pathetic. Twitter has been a great way to get celebrities back down to earth and actually speak to their fans. There was a more genuine delivery most of the time, and fans were given a reliable source to donate to.
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- Specific Japan Earthquake rescue pages were given a chance to shine with the help of creative landing pages and daily posts. It’s been a great way of keeping fans up to date and interested in the work being done in Japan. A successful favorite is the Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support page. Daily posts show animals that have been saved from the rubble and how people are helping from around the world. It’s inspirational and exciting to see on a newsfeed among typical ramblings of your friends.
- Other countries still in need
- Haiti may have experienced a horrific earthquake over a year ago, however the damage is still catastrophic and shouldn’t be ignored. Recently, on an episode of No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain, a trip to Haiti was made and a visit to the J/P HRO organization and its steadfast efforts to restore this damaged community. While the episode aired, viewers were not only given information from its co-founder Sean Penn, but Anthony Bourdain also continued the conversation on Twitter. He raised awareness while making it easy for followers to donate. Mission accomplished.
What creative campaigns have you seen to encourage donations? What made you donate?
