Could you agree more with your argument.

Using social media — as a supplement, but not necessarily a replacement for conventional outreach strategies — is perhaps the only viable way to assemble, activate and maintain a community of potential donors and volunteers. Engagement is key, and this medium is likely the most effective in reinforcing the relevancy and importance of a non-profit’s unique mission.

Tradional solicitations via direct mail, I would agree, aggravate and most likely alienate most recipients during these times of wide spread belt-tightening and attention to matters concerning conservation of energy and natural resources. Like you, I too, receive more unwanted direct mail solicitations a week than I wish for — most of it ends up in the recycling bin. I blame “old school” non-profits senior management for relying too heavily on this anachronistic approach.

Michael Payton
Branding & Communications Professional
Barrington, Rhode Island