Post by evanflynn on Oct 7, 2014 17:56:33 GMT -5
The American Cancer Society is a prolific non-profit organization devoted to eliminating cancer. They began in 1913 when 15 doctors came together in New York City as The American Society for the Control of Cancer. However in 1944 the organization assumed the name we recognize today and has become one of the oldest and largest health organizations in existence.
Most americans have likely heard of this great organization, and I believe that is by no mistake. In our Google Hangout, Sarah Milston discussed what she thought were three consistent components of a successful non-profit. They were a broad reach, a defined purpose, and a timely execution of such. I believe the American Cancer Society exhibits all of these.
First I would like to mention “Relays For Life”. These events and the ACS are practically synonymous, and many of us are probably familiar with them. Much of the ACS’s national presence was created by relays held throughout communities across the country over the last 30 years. In May of 1985 a doctor in Tacoma, Washington raised 27,000 dollars by running around a track. Ever since people from all walks of life have assumed the creation of their own relays. Subsequently nearly 5 billion dollars has been raised. “Relays For Life” were essential in establishing the ACS’s status in the health sector, and it also displays the ACS’s broad reach across the globe.
Next, the ACS has a very straightforward mission; end cancer. I assume most could rally behind such a cause considering that cancer effects millions of people’s lives. This being said, I find it astounding and inspiring to think that millions of people have decided to follow this initiative and walk, run, and witness human kinds resistance to cancer. Sarah Milston mentioned that people like to join things that are successful. I think relays are a perfect example of this. Participants can take a stand and make a change by simply attending. The cost of admission is a donation itself, yet people can sponsor those circling the track and multiply donation numbers by the laps completed. This is a great instance of a non-profit encouraging people to join a victory and catapult proceeds into thousands of dollars.
Lastly, the ACS operates very efficiently. Being that they are well established and very recognizable it is appropriate for them to fundraise on social media. Not only can volunteers and fans create and attend relays, but ACS collects proceeds on social media platforms. The American Cancer Society maintains a website and Facebook page that allows users to donate with a click of a button. More importantly, in addition to this standard practice, the ACS offers users the unique opportunity to create and design their own fundraisers. If Relay For Life is not an option or a desire, people can design their own personal fundraiser. This enhances the experience for people looking to get involved. People can work on their own time under their own terms any where they want. They can function as an extension of the American Cancer Society and contribute in ways that are specific to them. I believe this makes people more likely to get involved, and I also believe it makes sharing the experience more exciting. People can tweet and blog about their involvement, which spreads the ACS’ message as it garnishes them fans. As Mrs. Milston mentioned, fans and ambassadors of an organization are as valuable as money. This special approach allows for a larger splash, and a greater ripple effect throughout the United States. Every time somebody posts a photo on Instagram, the ACS succeeds. Every time time people come across information of their Pinterest, the ACS succeeds. The fact is, if people are engaged online and in reality, odds are the purpose and message are exposed.
“Relays For Life” and their personal fundraiser feature highlight just two effective social media strategies that the American Cancer Society practice. This organization is a fine example of a good purpose and good management prospering.
Sources:
Dr. Gordon Klatt, 1942-2014. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014, from www.relayforlife.org/
Personal Fundraising. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014, from www.cancer.org/involved/donate/personalfundraising/
'Remember when?' fundraiser planned in Luling, Relay for Life meeting set in LaPlace and other community events. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014, from blog.nola.com/river/2014/10/remember_when_fundraiser_plann.html
Most americans have likely heard of this great organization, and I believe that is by no mistake. In our Google Hangout, Sarah Milston discussed what she thought were three consistent components of a successful non-profit. They were a broad reach, a defined purpose, and a timely execution of such. I believe the American Cancer Society exhibits all of these.
First I would like to mention “Relays For Life”. These events and the ACS are practically synonymous, and many of us are probably familiar with them. Much of the ACS’s national presence was created by relays held throughout communities across the country over the last 30 years. In May of 1985 a doctor in Tacoma, Washington raised 27,000 dollars by running around a track. Ever since people from all walks of life have assumed the creation of their own relays. Subsequently nearly 5 billion dollars has been raised. “Relays For Life” were essential in establishing the ACS’s status in the health sector, and it also displays the ACS’s broad reach across the globe.
Next, the ACS has a very straightforward mission; end cancer. I assume most could rally behind such a cause considering that cancer effects millions of people’s lives. This being said, I find it astounding and inspiring to think that millions of people have decided to follow this initiative and walk, run, and witness human kinds resistance to cancer. Sarah Milston mentioned that people like to join things that are successful. I think relays are a perfect example of this. Participants can take a stand and make a change by simply attending. The cost of admission is a donation itself, yet people can sponsor those circling the track and multiply donation numbers by the laps completed. This is a great instance of a non-profit encouraging people to join a victory and catapult proceeds into thousands of dollars.
Lastly, the ACS operates very efficiently. Being that they are well established and very recognizable it is appropriate for them to fundraise on social media. Not only can volunteers and fans create and attend relays, but ACS collects proceeds on social media platforms. The American Cancer Society maintains a website and Facebook page that allows users to donate with a click of a button. More importantly, in addition to this standard practice, the ACS offers users the unique opportunity to create and design their own fundraisers. If Relay For Life is not an option or a desire, people can design their own personal fundraiser. This enhances the experience for people looking to get involved. People can work on their own time under their own terms any where they want. They can function as an extension of the American Cancer Society and contribute in ways that are specific to them. I believe this makes people more likely to get involved, and I also believe it makes sharing the experience more exciting. People can tweet and blog about their involvement, which spreads the ACS’ message as it garnishes them fans. As Mrs. Milston mentioned, fans and ambassadors of an organization are as valuable as money. This special approach allows for a larger splash, and a greater ripple effect throughout the United States. Every time somebody posts a photo on Instagram, the ACS succeeds. Every time time people come across information of their Pinterest, the ACS succeeds. The fact is, if people are engaged online and in reality, odds are the purpose and message are exposed.
“Relays For Life” and their personal fundraiser feature highlight just two effective social media strategies that the American Cancer Society practice. This organization is a fine example of a good purpose and good management prospering.
Sources:
Dr. Gordon Klatt, 1942-2014. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014, from www.relayforlife.org/
Personal Fundraising. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014, from www.cancer.org/involved/donate/personalfundraising/
'Remember when?' fundraiser planned in Luling, Relay for Life meeting set in LaPlace and other community events. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2014, from blog.nola.com/river/2014/10/remember_when_fundraiser_plann.html
