Social media has the power to entertain, engage, and connect both people and ideas. It is in that power that social media is also able to help businesses become more socially responsible.
The Home Depot Foundation for example, just launched a campaign on Facebook that allows users to vote where the company should spend its grant dollars and volunteer hours. It’s a program through Team Depot and Aprons in Action, and it will tap into Home Depot’s 250,000+ Facebook fans to give thousands of dollars to deserving organizations.
The reason I find this so ingenious is that it combines two things I support: social media and giving back. Not only is it a great way to give exposure to nonprofit organizations, it also spreads the responsibility of helping out to 250,000+ people.
What if more companies embraced the connection between social media and philanthropy? I find them to be a natural fit together. After all, the ethos of social media sites is predisposed to support humanitarianism. It’s a spirit of community, networking, individuality and impact. Combine that with the convenient, quick, easy and accessible platform of social media sites, and you have an audience willing to make a difference.