content development (&) management

I’m a little frustrated this morning. I signed up a while ago to have Slate Magazine send me news excerpts in email so that I don’t sound like I’ve been living under a rock when people start debating the economy, or Lithuania, or the economy in Lithuania. Sometimes the debate happens on Facebook, which gives me a chance to look it up before jumping into the fray, but I like to be prepared for those times when I’m not near my computer… okay, or when my iPhone is too far away to snap out a quick Google search or Tweet my network!

This morning the news excerpts included a link to a column by Patty and Sandy Stonesifer. They were responding to Ashleigh’s question, “Are ‘click to give’ sites legitimate? If so, why don’t you hear stories about people they have benefited?” Since I LOVE talking about nonprofits and giving, I skipped the stories about Baghdad and Dear Prudence, and went right to it.

Sandy responded with a very comprehensive discussion about the Hunger Site and Free Rice and other click-and-our-sponsor-gives-your-favorite-charity-money. As a side note, I LOVE Free Rice because the game works my vocabulary muscles!

But what frustrated me is that while they acknowledged the general ineffectiveness of these sites, and commented on the danger that  those of us that use them might think we’re “off the hook” as far as giving goes (and if you are reading this blog, you know how I feel about that), they failed to mention the REAL click-to-give sites, like GuideStar.org or here in Middle Tennessee, GivingMatters.com. These sites are where nonprofits can go to setup a public profile, in exchange for which they get a button they can add to their website – which allows users to “click” to donate. No games, no dependence on sponsors. Real dollars. Real folks, really getting help. And these sites are also searchable, so if you are looking, say, for a transitional housing organization, in Nashville, that helps veterans and others who are battling homelessness, you might come across the profile for my friends at Matthew 25. And you can review their financials, see who’s on the board of directors (and read their resumes), and find out if their mission is something that matches your passion and gift. And give. Right there.

If you know a little about SEO, you know that Patty and Sandy missed great opportunity this morning to help a lot of people with a few words and a couple of links! Ashleigh should have been told about GivingMatters.com – that’s where she can read all about the people that are benefiting from her generosity.

Be (frustration) free,

Jeff

I had a great opportunity to visit The Salvation Army, thanks to my friend Tony and his Kiwanis connection. Mike Servais gave a short presentation, served us lunch, and we got to tour the facility. A couple of their facilities, actually, and we also received a driving tour of the East Nashville neighborhood they serve. Their scope and their calling are enormous, but so is their passion.

And now I’m wide awake… but it’s not morning!*

I can’t sleep because I’ve been thinking about how much NEED there is. One reason I got into grant writing was because “helping people” seemed a noble career… but it’s easy to become overwhelmed.

If you find yourself in similar straits, my advice is to focus. Accomplishing any goal is made easier if you have a clear mission. The Salvation Army could use your help, but if you have a passion for education, focus your resources at your local schools. If you serve meals to the elderly in your rural neighborhood, and that feeds YOU, keep it up. Don’t let the Need distract you from serving where you can serve best.

They are depending on your passion. We all are. Don’t burn out from spreading yourself too thin. And don’t lay awake nights!

Be free,
Jeff

*With apologies to Connor Oberst, and thanks to Alissa W. for introducing me to Bright Eyes!