...A very small virtual event, yet so crucial. I am talking about the Ustream hosted launch of The Networked Nonprofits written by Beth Kanter and Allison Fine. There is a gap in literature on this topic, and I am really happy that Kanter and Fine decided to fill it with collection of their insights and experiences on fundraising with the help of new media.
We very often see great stories of Aid and support to developing countries - even here, on TH!NK platform. We must remember however that the mechanics of this support is based on year of experience in the 3rd sector. Sector, which sadly tends to be a bit traditional and not always ready for quick adjustments, very sceptical to change. Social media and the real time nature of communication does not match the profile of this sector whatsoever. The huge paradox becomes apparent if you think of the power of non for profit stories and achievements. There is nothing more positive, transparent and obviously worth talking about then the fact we help each other, the fact we work in the 3rd sector, the fact we spend our lives on bringing change for better. So why is the 3rd sector so slow in picking it up?
Once again, I am too new to it to be able to respond. I know though, that as with other industries it’s a question of acceptance, good practice and strong voices who take the lead. Kanter and Fine are exactly the women the sector will listen too, hence why I am happy to see the book being published.
I also like the fact they are aiming to coin few new terms. The most important to me personally is the social media volunteering. With increasingly complicated social media landscapes or brands, a lot of information noise and overwhelming amount of tools there is need for people who are able to find their way through all this ‘mes’. In many cases instead of actually adapting to the new media in the first place, it becomes often more realistic to employ volunteers to start working with organizations and gradually transfer the skills.
I would like to hear what you think of the idea, as I know some of you do work in the 3rd sector;)