As we all know, food drives are a common charitable event for non-profit organizations and for businesses looking to give back. Many organizations use traditional tools such as flyers and the ever-so-popular word-of-mouth method to spread the word. Although these tactics seem to work for close followers of small businesses, they are somewhat lacking in reaching beyond that particular group.
As social media platforms and other online tools forge ahead as charitable information hubs, small businesses can take advantage of the virtual grapevine by following these tips:
1). Create An Event Hashtag
Creating a hashtag that is specific to your organization’s food drive can not only help you promote your food drive, but it can also help to further engage with your followers. If you are using Twitter, you want to tweet this hashtag as often as possible in your updates. Be sure to also add that specific hashtag to all your online platforms (e.g. blogs, social media and websites) and encourage your followers to use it, too.
2). Do A Countdown
One call to action that usually spurs enthusiasm is a good ol’ fashioned countdown. By posting updates such as, “5 Days Left to Make a Difference,” you are keeping your food drive fresh on the minds of your social media followers. You can also use this as an opportunity to update your followers on the amount given.
Instagram even has a special “countdown sticker” you can use specifically for letting your audience know the urgency of your event.
3). Host A Biggest Donor Contest
Online contests are a great way to spark interest in your social media followers. Invite individuals and other businesses to join in on the fun by hosting a “biggest donor contest”. Encourage all participants to post pictures, videos and posts of their donations. This engagement works well for you and other businesses as they can show their charitable side and help you achieve your goal.
4). Create A Facebook Event
Creating an Event on Facebook is another great way to advertise your food drive efforts. Events on Facebook offer a place marker on the calendars of all your followers.
Here are a few tips to get the most out of your event:
- Include all important details such as key dates on the top of the page
- Don’t limit your posts to only admins. Invite all to post!
- Add a creative cover photo for your event
- Encourage local event blogs such as Patch to share your event
Get Started On Your Promoting Your Food Drive
Social media is a simple tool to promote your charitable efforts in an easy yet cost effective way. Are you planning to host a local food drive? If so, please feel free to post your event and location with our readers! Three Girls supports and appreciates the generosity of businesses who give back to the communities they serve.
Contact the Three Girls Media team today for advice on promoting your food drive or other events on social media.
Special Offer:
Sign up for a complimentary consultation during December and receive an Annual Marketing Planning Guide valued at $475! We offer a 30-minute phone consultation with our CEO, and can answer your questions and discuss your specific marketing needs - no strings attached. Call 408-218-2391 or contact us today to arrange your consultation!