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How Nonprofits Use Group Texting to Engage Donors and Volunteers

a group of nonprofit supporters

For nonprofits, building strong connections and engaging the amazing donors who support their mission and the incredible volunteers who bring it to life is key to making a real difference. But, in today's busy world, finding the most effective ways to reach them can be a challenge.


We've seen how quickly things move in the digital space, and while email and social media play their part, there's a communication tool that often gets right to the heart of the matter: group text messaging.


For people, it might be just for casual chats, but for nonprofits, it's proving to be a powerful way to rally support and keep everyone in the loop. In this blog, we will explore how nonprofits can use group texting to engage donors and volunteers.



The Direct Line Advantage


Think about your own phone. When a text comes through, you likely take a peek pretty quickly. That's the inherent advantage of SMS. It's direct, it's timely, and it cuts through the noise. For nonprofits, this means you can get important updates like a last-minute call for volunteers, or a crucial fundraising push directly to your supporters, fast.


The open rates for text messages speak for themselves! SMS has an open rate of around 98% which is far greater than emails, which has an open rate of only around 20-30%. (It really makes a difference when you can get urgent information to the people who care, right when they need to know).



Engage Donors Effectively Through Text Messages


Your donors are the fuel for your mission. Group texting can help you build those relationships and inspire their continued support in meaningful ways:


  • Timely Fundraising Appeals: When you have an important fundraising campaign or need to respond quickly to a community crisis, a thoughtful text message can deliver your message with urgency and make it easy for people to contribute.

  • Sharing Event Details: Got a fundraising event or a community gathering coming up? Use text messages to share the details, build excitement, and send friendly reminders so your supporters don't miss out on how they can get involved.

  • Showing Gratitude and Impact: It's not just about asking; it's about showing appreciation and demonstrating the impact of their generosity. A quick thank-you text or a brief update on how their donations are making a difference can go a long way. (Think about a donor getting a text that says, "Because of your support, we were able to provide shelter for five families tonight." That's a real connection.)

  • Supporting Peer Fundraisers: If you have passionate supporters fundraising on your behalf, group texts can help create a sense of community, offer encouragement, and keep everyone motivated toward their goals.



Keeping Volunteers Connected and Motivated


Your volunteers are the backbone of your work. Group texting can be a fantastic way to keep them informed, organized, and feeling valued:


  • Quickly Announcing Opportunities: Need extra hands for an upcoming initiative? A group text can get the word out efficiently.

  • Streamlining Schedules and Reminders: Managing volunteer schedules can be a juggling act. Text messages can help with reminders, last-minute changes, or filling urgent needs. It's often more immediate than an email.

  • Real-Time Coordination on the Ground: During events or projects, text messaging allows for quick communication and coordination among volunteers. Need someone to bring extra supplies? Have a quick update? Texting makes it simple.

  • Expressing Appreciation Directly: A simple "thank you" can go a long way. A quick text acknowledging their time and effort can make volunteers feel appreciated and more likely to stay involved.


Falkon SMS is one of the best texting services for nonprofits and offers smart texting features that let you group your donors and volunteers, schedule messages, automate replies, and do much more.



Tips for Effective Nonprofit Texting


Want to make sure your group texting efforts are successful? Here are a few SMS tips for nonprofits to keep in mind:


  • Always Get Permission: It's essential to get clear consent before sending text messages. This builds trust and respects your supporters' preferences.

  • Keep it Clear and Concise: Text messages are best when they're short and to the point. Make sure your message is easy to understand and includes a clear call to action.

  • Personalize When Possible: Even a simple personal greeting can make your message feel more engaging.

  • Provide an Easy Way to Opt Out: Always include clear instructions on how people can unsubscribe if they no longer wish to receive your texts.

  • Think About Timing: Consider when your audience is most likely to be receptive to your messages.



Ready to Enhance Your Engagement?


Group text messaging offers a powerful and direct way for nonprofits to connect with their donors and volunteers. It's about getting your message heard, mobilizing support when it's needed most, and showing genuine appreciation for your community.


If you're looking for a reliable and user-friendly platform to help you harness the power of group texting, Falkon SMS has you covered. We provide the tools you need to connect with your supporters effectively and make an even bigger impact.


 
 
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