The 2016 Millennial Impact Report found that over 50% of millennials give to charitable organizations. Although this generation makes less than the generation before them, they are still willing to open their minds, hearts, and wallets for good causes.
Millennials want to see change in the world, and being involved with nonprofit organizations — whether that means donating, volunteering, or sharing information on social media — is a step for them in the right direction. Here are four things that will attract millennial members to your organization.
A Clear Mission and Personal Stories
Millennials are most likely to get involved when they can relate to an organization’s cause. When a nonprofit has a similar value system to theirs, millennials will feel more of a draw to align themselves with that organization. Be clear with your mission statements, what you represent, and where donations go, and share personal stories and photos via your website or social media channels to connect on a deeper level with potential members.
[Related: How to Ensure High Membership Renewal Rates]
Volunteer Opportunities
The 2016 Millennial Impact Report also showed that 46% of millennials consistently volunteer, so the more opportunities your organization provides to make a difference, the more millennials will show up. Creating volunteer opportunities gives your organization a chance to meet its members and connect through work that matters to everyone.
Fun Off-Site Events
In addition to volunteer events, taking the time to organize fun, off-site events such as galas and fundraisers is a great way to gain millennials’ attention. These events are considered shareable content, and as silly as it sounds, the more interesting your event, the more likely people are to share it with others on social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, and particularly the photo-focused Instagram.
Around 90% of millennials ages 18 to 29 use social media, with the average adult clocking in at approximately five hours of phone use per day. These statistics are in your organization’s favor, since once these events are shared, tags, hashtags, and links will more than likely garner positive attention from potential millennial members.
Mobile Fundraising Campaigns and Giving Opportunities
With more people than ever using their mobile phones for internet use rather than home computers, mobile online fundraising campaigns and giving opportunities are more important than ever. These days, millennials send messages, watch movies, check their bank accounts, and even pay their bills all from their mobile devices. The easier it is to donate to your organization from a mobile-friendly site or app, the more likely millennials, who are already on their phones, will show their monetary support.
Millennials love to align themselves with companies that work to better the world, and through a clear mission statement, volunteer opportunities, fun events, and easy mobile giving campaigns, your organization will be more likely to appeal to a younger generation and attract new members committed to your cause.
Contact Dennison & Associates today for a consultation regarding any of your organization’s needs, including how to appeal to the millennial generation and ensure high membership rates.
