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by Naomi Kinsman

 

Which nonprofit has captured your heart this year? Chances are, you have a list! Supporting those meaningful causes may be more simple than you think.

What I’ve learned, as founder and Executive Director of Society of Young Inklings, is that people are an organization’s greatest asset. You may not realize it, but even tiny actions can yield enormous impact for organizations.

Wondering where to start? Here’s a list of ten possibilities.

1. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or Pinterest.

Your vote of confidence isn’t only social proof that the organization’s cause is meaningful. By following the organization, you influence the hidden strings behind the curtain and boost their reach. In other words, your simple click helps your favorite organization touch more lives.

Or, for extra oomph, like, share and comment on their posts, or post a picture and note on social media about your experience with the organization.

Want to follow SYI? Here are our links: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest

2. Forward one of their emails to a friend to help build a new connection.

In nearly every conversation about SYI, an aha! moment occurs. “You know who you should meet …” someone will say. Amazing! These connections unlock new possibilities. Next time you receive an email from your favorite organization, consider: Who in your circle needs to know about these resources or initiatives?

At SYI, we’re looking to make connections with authors, educators, librarians, and of course, potential Inklings and their parents.

 

3. Email them a story about your experience with their offerings.

Nonprofit staff and volunteers pour hours and passion into their work. You’d be surprised how meaningful and heartening your story will be. Your experience might even become a powerful testimony that helps them spread the word about not only what they do, but why they do it.

4. Give one of their products as a gift this holiday season.

Many nonprofits have swag, products, or gift cards for services. In many cases, these gifts are the ones that last long after the wrapping and bows are cleared away.

Looking for an SYI gift? Check out these possibilities: SYI Published Books or Online Courses

 

5. Volunteer a few hours of your time and expertise.

Sure, there may be posted volunteer opportunities, but do you have a special skill or interest area that doesn’t quite fit?  Let that organization know! Send a quick email to explain your idea and area of expertise.

At SYI, we’re specifically looking for experts in online education, marketing, Facebook ads, and fundraising.

 

6. Review the organization or its products on Yelp, Amazon, indie sites, etc.

Well-placed reviews influence people at decision-making moments. Your review counts. If you write one, multiply your impact by cross posting it on a couple sites.

To help SYI in this way, consider reviewing one of our Your Name in Ink or Inklings Books.

 

7. If you’re making purchases on Amazon, use Amazon Smile.

At no cost to you, a portion of the revenue from your purchases goes directly to the nonprofit.

To support SYI with your Amazon purchases, go to smile.amazon.com and select Society of Young Inklings as your non-profit of choice. Bookmark and use your smile.amazon.com link to shop on Amazon!

 

8. Make an introduction between people you know at two similarly minded nonprofits or companies.

Partnerships are powerful. Help your favorite nonprofits connect with others who are doing similar work. A personal introduction removes barriers and makes collaboration more efficient and thus, cost-effective.

SYI is looking to partner with online educators, literacy organizations, and organizations who serve youth. We would also love to collaborate with companies whose products and apps focus on writers, books, and creativity.

9. Think of an influencer in your sphere who should know about the organization and make an introduction.

Do you know a blogger, podcaster, or other influencer whose topic relates to the organization’s cause? Your personal introduction could result in a guest post or other opportunity to multiply the organization’s efforts.

If you’d like to help Society of Young Inklings in this way, we’re specifically looking to make connections around the topic of books, literacy, writing, and creativity.

10. Support the organization financially.

Remember, even small donations help. It’s easy to get into the mindset that only large dollar amounts make a difference. However, keep in mind that $10,000 is only 400 gifts of $25, or 100 gifts of $100. Together, we can do much more than any of us can do on our own. We’d love your support this season. You can donate to SYI using the form below. Many thanks to you for all the ways you support us – whether with time, talent, or treasure.

 

 

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