Photo courtesy of Case Foundation.
As loyal Social Citizens readers know, we were all abuzz at the Case Foundation as we brought together more than 100 organizations across the country for a virtual summit on Millennial engagement, earlier this summer. Check out the exclusive behind-the-scenes video the Case Foundation interns created featuring insights from Geoff Livingston of Zoetica, Barbara Bush of Global Health Corps and Erica Williams of the Citizen Engagement Lab!
While Millennials are known for being a tech-savvy and entrepreneurial generation, they are less well known for being one of the most active generations when it comes to volunteering and donating. For many organizations that strive to reach this skilled and passionate generation, figuring out how to tap into this passion for service and philanthropy remains a mystery.
In addition to the video we wanted to share some key highlights and takeaways we heard during MDS11:
- Social Media: Non-profits should use social media to interact with Millennials—don’t just make “announcement” posts, but ask questions, respond to comments and tweets, and keep people informed about your organization’s work. It might be a “virtual” relationship, but it’s still a relationship.
- Volunteers and Donors: Advanced technology and increased internet access have empowered the Millennial generation. Satisfy their desire to be influential—give your volunteers and donors legitimate decision making power about how their time is spent and where their money is going.
- Cross-generational Communication: It’s simple—embrace dialogue between generations! Be open to teaching and learning.
- Non-profit Leadership: The entrepreneurial spirit of the Millennial generation should be harnessed in the non-profit sector—don’t be afraid to try a new method or idea just because it isn’t a standard operating procedure.
If you attended MDS11, what did you find interesting or exciting? If you missed out and want to learn more, register for post-Summit access to the videos at www.mdsummit11.com.
Special thanks to Kate Newman and Kathryn Beard, interns at the Case Foundation, who created this video piece and blog post.