Modest Needs is participating in something really interesting and fun today, and we want you to be in on it. There is a conference going on in New York called BrandsConf, a conference exploring the “'Humanization of Brands' and the underlying effects this is having on business." Except in our case, we'll be exploring the how the humanization of brands affect charities.
What does the "humanization of brands" mean? Good question.
The "humanization of brands" sounds like jargon. I mean, really it sounds like it means nothing at all, at least at first blush. But is basically just means that companies and other institutions, like this one, realize that they have to get personal with people in order to remain relevant. The advent of social networking and its huge influence in modern life has changed the game for many businesses who, frankly, used to ignore customers because they weren't easily heard. Now that everyone has Facebook, a blog or a Twitter account, suddenly customers have megaphones. And companies are trying to figure out how best to listen.
And really, as the person in charge of outreach for Modest Needs (updating this blog, Facebook, Twitter and other web spots), listening is what I do. I want to hear from you, the donors, the applicants and those of you who are both. Modest Needs wants you to be involved at a cellular level with this charity, because we know that is the best way to create social change for the good of the community.
I'll be sitting on a panel with three other women who work in the non-profit field to talk about how our charities use social networking and branding to reach audiences. I will specifically be talking about the effectiveness of our Facebook page (join us?), where people rally to see featured applications funded, give each other words of encouragement and share information about how best to help those in need. It really is a powerful place where amazing things happen every day.
The "Changing Face of Non-Profits" panel that Modest Needs is participating in begins at 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Tickets to this event are pricey, and may have even sold out, but with an internet connection you can watch the Modest Needs panel for free right on your computer.
Just use this link to tap into a discussion about the Modest Needs community--your community--and then let us know what you think in the comments below.
