As I’ve worked on defining my brand this year, I’ve reviewed my accomplishments since joining the nonprofit sector in 2000. The achievements I am most proud of have to do with helping organizations to effectively use the Internet to do fundraising and to engage constituents. A good description of the term can be found at Network for Good
and through resources available at the ePhilanthropy Foundation
Having done considerable training in recent years, I’ve recently applied to become an ePMT, which will allow me to further help nonprofits develop and implement their online strategies. ePhilanthropy involves bridging multiple areas which have traditionally run separately: technology, communications / marketing and development. While the web site is important, but so are other forms of online communications.
The book Nonprofit Internet Strategies describes ePhilanthropy as “an ongoing process of communicating, educating, cultivating and soliciting nonprofit supporters to build and enhance stronger relationships.” Many nonprofits have succeeded in this area by focusing on:
- the relationship: integrate all messages to supporters
- give supporters a reason to visit you online
- interact with supporters; don’t just send messages
- communicate using multiple methods (offline and online methods should be managed as an integrated strategy) .
- access and improve performance
While technology is my core strength, I use many other skills to help nonprofits use the Internet effectively to achieve their mission. Focusing on ePhilanthropy seems to describe it best.
