MN: What outlets does Capital Cause use to market/advertise itself, and how does it sustain itself in social media and keep aspiring young philanthropists engaged?
KW: Capital Cause relies heavily on Facebook and Twitter to inform, inspire, engage and challenge young people to consider philanthropy right now. We make sure to hit on three core concepts to make sure our messaging remains consistent:
1. We call our supporters #YoungPhilanthropists and define the term continuously by sharing the Capital Cause definition, quotes and stories related to philanthropy.
2. We share opportunities for our Young Philanthropists get involved. Activities included Capital Cause sponsored events and sharing programs being planned by our nonprofit partners.
3. We highlight the work of our members and demonstrate how they give back daily; this way our supporters can learn about philanthropy through the example that our members and supporters set.
Millennials are a tech-savvy generation, so we make sure to use social media and other online mechanisms to engage them where they are.
MN: What honorable mentions, awards, recognitions, etc. has Capital Cause received for its work in the Washington D.C. community?
KW: Recently, Capital Cause was awarded the Kiwanis Club – Excellence in Community Service award. This award recognized the 3,000 Capital Cause Young Philanthropists who have donated to support microgrants benefiting nonprofits working to eradicate educational inequity and end poverty in the DC Metropolitan area. We were humbled and honored to have a 97 year-old nonprofit recognize our nascent philanthropic efforts; and, it’s our goal to follow in their footsteps and continue to make a difference in under-served communities.
MN: Are you looking to expand the reach of Capital Cause?
KW: The long-term goal of Capital Cause includes founding chapters nationwide. We believe the message of young philanthropy isn’t just applicable to people located in the DC Metropolitan area. We’re making it our mission to revolutionize philanthropy in order to build a new generation of young donors committed to giving back throughout their lifetime.
MN: What would like others to know about your organization, Capital Cause and engaging millennials in philanthropy?
I work with a stellar team of changemakers who are serious about achieving the Capital Cause mission. Though each person has their specific roles and responsibilities, Board members choose not to work in silos. Together we brainstorm solutions to challenges, and create opportunities from roadblocks and we do it for the benefit of young philanthropists. In the past, I have joined Boards where having the title usurps doing the work. Capital Cause is a refreshing change from this, and I am honored to be a part of this group of servant leaders. I see the value of philanthropy daily, when I see them work selflessly for a cause.
More information about the work of Capital Cause and how to get involved can be found at www.capitalcause.com.
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