(Charleston, W.Va.) – The YWCA is ushering in a new era of fundraising.
During these lean economic times when charitable giving is dwindling, the YWCA has taken a proactive approach by utilizing new technologies to implement non-traditional fundraising methods. From social media initiatives like Twitter and Facebook to a unique text messaging component, the YWCA’s 24 for 24 Pledge campaign leads the virtual way for non-profits across the greater Kanawha Valley.
The YWCA is asking individuals to “make a small commitment; make a big difference” by pledging 24 dollars a month for 24 months to the YWCA $2 Million Challenge – a campaign that will ultimately result in a $4 million fund to endow the YWCA’s social service programs, thanks to a matching gift from Mr. Lyell B. Clay.
People have the option to sign up for the pledge by means of text messaging or the web. A PSA video (courtesy of Dan Shreve of The Media Center) featuring real-life YWCA supporters expressing why they give to the YWCA 24 for 24 Pledge is posted on YouTube and is being shared through cyberspace via email and Facebook. The word is also spreading on Twitter, where the YWCA is asking its 266 followers to “retweet” the information they post and spread the word about the campaign.
According to YWCA Development Director Jamie Cooper, these non-traditional fundraising methods are becoming more and more valuable for nonprofits like the YWCA of Charleston because of the ailing economy.
“With cutbacks in charitable giving from individuals, businesses and foundations across the board, it is all the more critical that we involve our community at a grassroots level,” Cooper stated. “The 24 for 24 Pledge is a manageable way for people to truly make a difference in our community, as their gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar to benefit women and children in need in our community.”
YWCA Marketing Director Laura Jordan stated that the “24 for 24” theme came about by observing how during the presidential campaign, Barack Obama raised millions of dollars through $20 donations on Facebook.
“We want this campaign to engage a younger demographic,” stated Jordan, “not only as a fundraiser, but also as means to raise awareness about the services we provide, which are even more critical in today’s economy.”
The YWCA of Charleston’s five social service programs empower individuals to become self-sufficient by providing education, job readiness, affordable childcare, counseling and financial planning, combined basic needs like food, shelter, clothing and safety. During the past year, the YWCA provided 22,333 shelter nights to homeless individuals, victims of domestic violence and their children; 6,660 hours of free counseling and case management, and 142,264 nutritious meals.
“To many of us, $24 a month may mean buying a few less lattes or packing a lunch rather than eating out,” Jordan stated. “However, to the people we serve, it can change lives.”
How to sign up for the YWCA 24 for 24 Pledge:
- Text 2424 and your email address to 77007
- Visit ywcacharleston.org and click the 24 for 24 logo
Where to find the YWCA on the web:
- Website: ywcacharleston.org
- Blog: ywcacharleston.blogspot.com
- Facebook: YWCA of Charleston (fan page)
- Twitter: ywcacharleston
- YouTube channel: ywcacharleston