Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn. Though there are many different mediums to choose among, the message that is conveyed to the masses is concise and clear: If you want to get information out there, use social media! Since the creation of the above outlets, people have really started to become more technologically savvy, especially millennials. But, my question is, can these social media outlets be effective in engaging the millennials of our society within the community?
According to a report by GfK Mediamark Research & Intelligence (MRI), millennials (ages 18-34), such as myself, depend on social networking sites more than any other age group for personal connections and self-expression. Information sharing along this media has been confirmed as more than just a passing fad for my generation, but as an integral part of millennials finding information, seeking help, establishing friendships, and engaging in their communities.
Engagement within the community is something that I feel many millennials want to be a part of, but sometimes have little knowledge about how to get started. United Way of the Greater Triangle has indentified that need and has now integrated social media with the non-profit world. Currently, UWGT’s Young Leaders Society (YLS), which is a group for millenials who wish to develop in the professional arena, have a webpage on Facebook. Not only is this media outlet great for members of the group to share information with each other, but they can share information to engage prospective members.
YLS has over 100 members on Facebook and I know will be attracting more over time. With such a powerful message, their leadership giving, and their active participation in volunteer opportunities that is conveyed through the help of Facebook, the Young Leaders Society is helping the United Way make a lasting, positive impact in people’s lives throughout the Triangle.
Though it is almost unimaginable that only a short few years ago social media was not even in existence, it certainly has become a powerful shift in community engagement that is increasingly being driven by millennials. YLS, along with other millennials, are going to be the same young social activists who eventually become the founders and CEO’s of non-profit organizations and more, transforming the world for the better in the near future.