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Our 2010 Animal Welfare Nonprofits Campaign is wrapping up today and tomorrow, and we are just two organizations short of 100 as the count of those that have gotten new user reviews during the month of July.
Of the 98 that have reviews, around 20 have qualified for our Top-Rated Animal Nonprofits List, which will be published on Monday. These are the nonprofits that have gathered at least ten positive reviews during the campaign.
We'd like to thank our extraordinary list of partners -- the American Humane Association, Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Humane Society of the United States, Wildlife Forever, I Love Rescue Animals, K9 Magazine, DogTipper.com, The Pet Museum, and No Meat Athlete -- for their help during the campaign.
So c'mon, animal lovers. You can do it! Get some reviews of two more nonprofits working on behalf of animals and we'll reach the magic number of 100 organizations with new stakeholder reviews during this campaign!
About the Campaign
The animal campaign ran throughout the month of July and all reviews appear on the GreatNonprofits.org website. Nonprofits with 10 or more positive reviews are listed on the GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Animal Welfare Nonprofits List. Review submissions must have been received from July 1st through July 31st, 2010.
Partners in the Campaign
American Humane Association Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane provides national leadership in developing policies, legislation, curricula and training programs -- and taking actions -- to protect children and animals from cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Animal Legal Defense Fund For more than three decades, the Animal Legal Defense Fund has been fighting to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system.
DogTipper.com features tips for dog lovers, by dog lovers as well as news, product reviews, celebrity canines, and more.
The Humane Society of the United States, which is the nation’s largest animal protection organization, has worked since 1954 to celebrate animals and confront cruelty in all its forms.
I Love Rescue Animals is a site dedicated to celebrating rescued animals, supporting shelters, rescues and animal rights organizations and to animal welfare worldwide. We seek to raise awareness utilizing the vast resources available online through social media and to inspire others to make a difference in their own communities.
K9 Magazine is the leading lifestyle title for modern, forward thinking dog lovers. Featuring a most diverse selection of content, everything from expert dog advice, book reviews and opinion to free pet stuff, pet product reviews and high quality editorial. Get a free trial copy today!
No Meat Athlete shares vegetarian recipes, marathon- and triathlon-training advice, and animal-friendly product reviews to spread the message that you can achieve incredible things without eating animals.
The Pet Museum The lives, times, art and history of our pets.
Wildlife Forever conserves America’s fish and wildlife through education, preservation of habitat and management of all things wild.
Nonprofits Try to Help Mitigate Oil Spill Effects
Some 100 days after the BP explosion and the resulting oil spill, the giant company has yet to rid the Gulf Coast of crude, but it has gotten rid of CEO Tony Hayward.
Hayward will step down on October 1 and be replaced by current managing director Robert Dudley as part of an effort to shake off the negative publicity BP continues to get from the oil spill and Hayward's repeated PR gaffes.
Meanwhile, cleanup crews press on as obstacle after obstacle hampers relief efforts. As we reported in June, Hurricane Alex halted cleanup with its strong winds and 12-foot high waves, and just last weekend, Tropical Storm Bonnie forced the evacuation of the nearly 2,000 people working at the oil spill site.
In what might be the strangest obstacle yet, cleanup crews are now having trouble locating the spilled oil. The formerly Kansas-sized oil slick has now shrunk to the size of New Hampshire, and this is not all due to cleanup efforts. According to experts, the mysteriously disappearing oil is either just hidden beneath the surface of the water or has been broken apart by sun, water and wind.
Unfortunately, this does not mean that the oil spill will clean itself up, and some Bay Area nonprofits are taking their operations to the Gulf Coast in an effort to expedite the cleanup.
One such organization is the International Bird Rescue Research Center, whose volunteers have set up rescue centers and have washed oiled birds -- sometimes up to 14 hours a day. UC Davis's Oiled Wildlife Care Network has set up oil treatments for oil-slicked sea turtles.
Some of our very own GreatNonprofits reviewers have been down the Gulf Coast to lend a helping hand in the relief efforts. bigpelicanfan writes:
"Following the terrible oil spill in the Gulf I felt an obligation to try to mitigate the effects of this ecological disaster with my humble contributions, however tiny in comparison they may be. So I set out to focus my efforts on a local organization and found this small but dedicated group- the Choctawhatachee Coastal Conservancy. Meanwhile, I have experienced first hand the devotion of this group toward saving our coastal treasures. The Coastal Conservancy's invaluable work in wildlife rehabilitation and ecological conservation is an integral part of a long term strategy for preserving our coastal ecosystems in all of their natural beauty and biodiversity."
If you have been to the Gulf Coast to volunteer with a nonprofit in the animal rescue efforts, we encourage you to share your experiences by writing a review.
-- Xenia Shih
Animal Nonprofits Make Final Push for Top-Rated Status
At the start of the final week of our 2010 Animal Welfare Campaign, more than 89 nonprofits working on behalf of animals have received stakeholder reviews at GreatNonprofits.org, and 15 have attained "Top-Rated" status, which requires ten or more positive reviews filed during the month of July.
We have partnered with the American Humane Association, Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Humane Society of the United States, Wildlife Forever, I Love Rescue Animals, K9 Magazine, DogTipper.com, The Pet Museum, and No Meat Athlete for this campaign.
Among the organizations already achieving top-rated status is the Animal Legal Defense Fund, headquartered in Cotati, CA.
"After a tragic incident occurred with my dog Ruby and the negligence of her vet (see http://www.rubydogclark.com for story), I sought guidance for steps to take to ensure this does not happen to anyone else or their animal companion," wrote rubydog7. "The ALDF's website had information that helped me move forward with filing a complaint against the vet board and identifying the lack of legal rights our animals actually have. It is encouraging to see there is an organization such as ALDF to assist consumers with knowledge about animal rights or lack there of and to provide guidance on what steps and actions can be taken by consumers to make the world a better place for our animals."
Another top-rated nonprofit, the International Exotic Feline Sanctuary, in Boyd, TX.
"With a lifelong passion for animals and the environment, and after graduating college with a degree in Environmental Science, I found an internship at IEAS was the perfect next step," wrote.ebyn. "As soon as I arrived, I was blown away with the facility and the dedication of all the employees. The habitats are developed to provide the most enriching and natural environment possible. I personally witnessed the transformation of animals arriving scared and in poor health into healthy and active residents who utilize the environmental stimuli provided them. As I make my yearly return visit, I am able to continue to observe these animals' growth and development. My internship at IEAS provided me with a sound basis for the next step in my career."
The Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, of Arlington, VA, has also qualified for top-rated status.
"When I decided that I wanted to volunteer for an animal rescue organization, I did a lot of research into the different organizations in my area to determine which agreed best with my personal views on animal rescue," wrote jessica26. "LDCRF was a clear winner for me with their large volunteer foster program, well thought out adoption procedures, and the fact that all animals are spayed/neutered before adoption. I have greatly enjoyed working for this wonderful organization and am looking forward to doing even more in the future."
The Animal Welfare Campaign is dedicated to spotlighting the excellent work of nonprofits working on behalf of animals, domestic and wild, here and overseas. The campaign wraps up at midnight, July 31st.
How a Twitter Campaign Helped Animal Nonprofits
We recently embarked on an experiment here at GreatNonprofits to see whether we could use Twitter to generate more buzz as well as more of the stakeholder reviews that form the core content on the our site.
Since social media strategies are of increasing importance to all nonprofits these days, we want to share the results of this experiment here.
We felt that the Animal Welfare Campaign that we are conducting this July had the ability to go viral, because many of the participating nonprofits maintain active Twitter accounts.
Thus, we launched the Animal Twitter Campaign, in the form of a contest.
The contest format was simple. Nonprofits were given points for three actions -- Tweeting about the campaign, having their followers Tweet about GreatNonprofits, or gaining more user reviews while the campaign was going on.
They had three days to try and gain the most points. The contest winner would be featured on the GreatNonprofits home page.
Almost immediately, we saw an influx of Tweets resulting from this initiative.
RockyCoolCat: eye wuz reskewed RT @TheCatNetwork Last chance help homeless #cats in the @GreatNonprofits Twitter challenge.
UAN1987: "UAN is comprised of people who are passionate about what they do and it is contagious" 
review us @Greatnonprofits http://bit.ly/bCfh66”
Peta: Calling all activists & supporters. Got some kind words 2 say about us? Give us a review over on @GreatNonprofits: http://bit.ly/dndBap
The Tweets came from all types of users and organizations; ranging PETA, a national organization with 77,144 followers; to The Lowry Park Zoo, a local organization with only 1,486 followers.
One of the beauties of social media like Twitter is how they can level the playing field between large and small nonprofits, at least when it comes to marketing campaigns.
At the end of three days, The Cat Network, headquartered in Miami, FL, was our winner. They had leveraged their devoted followers and cranked out an impressive 26 Retweets.
The Suncoast Humane Society in Englewood, FL, ran a close second and attracted 14 new reviews in 3 days.
United Animal Nations in Sacramento, CA, was the third-place finisher.
Meanwhile, the increase in buzz about GreatNonprofits and our campaign was substantial – we experienced a 410 percent increase in Twitter mentions during the days of the campaign.
In addition, the increased conversation around GreatNonprofits helped bring in 46 new reviews and helped five nonprofits reach the Top Ranked List for our animal campaign.
Of the twelve organizations that participated in this experiment with us, seven gained new reviews, and others seemed to benefit one way or another.
So this social media campaign was a success from our perspective, and we’ll be running more in the future and reporting on the results here on our blog.
-- Rachel Heredia
Land Berms Off Louisiana May Do “More Harm Than Good”
Day 92 of the BP oil spill: over 92,000,000 gallons of oil leaked and at least 2095 dead birds, 467 dead sea turtles, and 61 dead mammals collected.
The good news is that, for the first time since the Deepwater Horizon rig exploded on April 20, BP has significantly slowed the oil leaking into the Gulf of Mexico. An experimental cap placed over the gushing well last week has offered a temporary solution while BP considers its options for permanently sealing its well.
While BP searches for a solution, one state has taken matters into its own hands. Louisiana has begun work on a man-made arc of islands just off its coast that it hopes will prevent oil from reaching its marshes. The state is using mounds of dirt and sandbags to construct the island, which is less than a mile long but is envisioned to be 128 miles long at completion.
The decision by Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and state officials to build the arc of islands is controversial. Some scientists have voiced concerns that disrupting the natural flow of water is dangerous, while others expressed doubt that the sand berms will be able to stand up to pounding waves.
Scientists aren’t the only ones who have reservations about Louisiana’s island plan. Aaron Viles of the Gulf Restoration Network said the state’s island construction “may be doing more harm than good,” especially since it will be so costly.
Meanwhile, GreatNonprofits is in the process of gathering reviews of nonprofit organizations like the Gulf Restoration Network that work on behalf of animals, both wild and domestic, during July. One review we’ve received of the Gulf Restoration Network was written by vicki9698:
“I worked for the Gulf Restoration Network between 2002 and 2006…The GRN’s effectiveness continues to improve in leaps and bounds and they are bringing national attention to a regional issue that has such wide-reaching implications. I believe that the GRN will continue to be a leader in preserving one of our nation’s greatest natural treasures and I look forward to continuing to play a role in their success.”
-- Xenia Shih
Local Humane Societies Gathering Reviews From Around the U.S.
Our first-ever Animal Welfare Campaign this month has attracted reviews of at least 72 nonprofits working on behalf of animals so far, with ten organizations qualifying for our top-rated list, which will be published at the end of the campaign.
We are conducting the campaign in partnership with the American Humane Association, Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Humane Society of the United States, Wildlife Forever, I Love Rescue Animals, K9 Magazine, DogTipper.com, The Pet Museum, and No Meat Athlete.
Several of the top-rated nonprofits are local-based Humane Societies, which are not to be confused with the national organization that we are working with. These shelters have been praised by numerous reviewers in their communities.
One reviewer, diwfeld, writes about the Suncoast Humane Society, in Englewood, FL:
"Being able to help out at Suncoast is a privilege. Spending time with the dogs is such a gift since, even the scared, newly-placed dogs seem to understand pretty quickly that they are in a safe place. The care there is delicious and it is heart-warming to watch animals get adopted, even after being there a long time. With very little money, the leaders of the organization have worked wonders."
The Houston Humane Society is also receiving positive reviews, such as this one from mariasmagic:
"I am currently disabled and have pets that I have in my care. I felt at a loss when I became disabled and could not get shots etc. for my dogs. I found the Houston Humane Society and they were a big help. I was not the only one there and as I spoke to many of the other clients. I was told over and over that they would not have been able to keep their pets well and current in their vaccinations. All of my dogs are rescue dogs and I am glad that there are places like the Houston Humane Society available for people to find a forever home for an unwanted animal."
Of the Humane Society Silicon Valley in Milipitas, CA, reviewer surbhi1 writes:
"I have never seen such a loving and well organized volunteer organization. I am a dog socializer with HSSV and from the very first day I felt the love and sincerity the team of employees and volunteers feel for the animals. The wonderful conditions the animals are kept in, cared for and how each person involved with this organization feels responsible for the animals. The dogs have individual rooms with music playing to calm them, clean quarters with food and a great deal of TLC. The cats have their own royal rooms with amply space and corners for them to feel comfortable. I am extremely impressed and honored to be a part of such a noble organization."
Note: This post has been corrected to reflect the fact that the Humane Society is a national advocacy organization that is not affiliated with local Humane Societies.
As Birds Migrate South, Massive Oil Spill Lies in Wait
By now, we’ve all seen images of oil-slicked pelicans and read about the endangered sea turtles burned alive in BP’s "controlled burns," but another large population of animals is moving within range of the massive oil spill soon.
Starting this month, millions of birds like gadwalls, scaups and mallards will begin migrating south towards the Gulf of Mexico. Some species use the Gulf as a resting point on their migratory journeys, while others call it home until the following spring.
But this particular winter, the Gulf may not be the most welcoming pit stop for birds on the move. Oiled water and oil-contaminated food are just two of the potential hazards that await migratory birds.
An estimated 1,000 to 4,000 acres of marshland have been directly impacted by the oil spill, and biologists like Tom Moorman are concerned about the devastation that could occur if an entire flock of birds comes into contact with one of these slicks. Globs of oil as small as a dime can kill a bird.
Even if the birds can avoid the oil slicks, they may consume oil-contaminated clams and become ill. Diving species like redhead ducks are among the most vulnerable to food poisoning.
Coastal Louisiana is one of the areas presenting the greatest risk this migration season. Next month, an estimated 15 million ducks and 1.6 million geese will make their way to the area, which means that we may well be seeing many more oil-slicked birds in the months to come.
Luckily, most migrating bird species flock to the marshes located inland rather than the coastal areas affected by the oil spill. However, tropical storms pose a constant threat to areas formerly untouched by the disaster. Recently, for example, Hurricane Alex disrupted cleanup efforts and pushed oil onto Gulf Coast beaches.
Conservation groups like the National Wildlife Federation are concentrating their efforts on surveillance in the hope of locating and saving some of the affected ducks and birds. But with hurricane season in full swing and 60,000 barrels of oil gushing into the ocean daily, this may all prove to be too little, too late.
-- Xenia Shih
How GNP Reviews Fit Into That “Money for Good” Report
While reading the big report on donor behavior in the U.S. called Money for Good: The US Market for Impact Investments and Charitable Gifts from Individuals, I was struck with how many barriers still exist against improving the performance of nonprofit organizations.
The report, which was based on an in-depth survey of 4,000 affluent individuals, contains this startling finding: While 85 percent of donors claim they care about a group's performance, only 3-4 percent conduct any research in order to determine whether it is high-performing or not.
Rather, it appears that most donors simply assume that the recipients of their funds are doing a good job, if indeed that is actually one of their real reasons for giving in the first place. After all, those individuals who through their behavior, not their words, really do care (called "High Impact" donors in the report) account for only 12 percent of all individual donations on an annual basis.
Meanwhile, most donors are extremely loyal, with 85 percent of their donations going to the same groups year after year. That level of loyalty competes with the advantage incumbents enjoy in politics, which is why we see the same faces returning to legislative bodies election after election.
In my experience, which should not be considered authoritative, most people donate money based on personal connections, as well as on the stories told to them by the organizations they support. For example, I remember raising a substantial grant years ago in support of a journalism project investigating the income gap that separates men and women. The donor had been especially moved by my (true) story of a woman in Tennessee who had decided to take up this issue after reading about one of our articles while sitting in a beauty salon.
A year later, when I went back to report about the new articles we had produced, he expressed disappointment that there were no new examples "of women from hair salons" in the heartland. In that case, clearly the power of the original story I had told him had helped us get the first grant, but if I wanted any additional funds from this donor, I somehow needed to keep that compelling narrative going.
Here at GreatNonprofits, we collect many such stories in the form of stakeholder reviews. If you read through these reviews, as we do every day, it is simply remarkable how great an impact many nonprofits are having on people's lives.
In our recent heath campaign, for example, I found dozens of examples of people who expressed profound gratitude to nonprofits that had helped them deal with an uncommon disease, or the loss of a loved one, or the failures of the conventional heath care system.
These individual stories often have a powerful emotional impact on the reader. One young woman, (Jenny93), described the impact the Kristin Brooks Hope Center, in Washington, D.C., had had on her life: “One night I called the hope line hoping for alternative release than hanging myself. I talked to a lady and she told me I was a good person and I needed to believe in myself. Six years later, I’m still here.”
I have to believe that if more donors knew about the types of impacts that nonprofits can have, the entire world of philanthropy would be more effective than it is. Then again, as an old journalist who's spent a career gathering such stories, maybe I belong to that miniscule percentage (3-4 percent) who actually does a bit of research before signing his next check.
-- David Weir
Calling all Animal-loving tweeters: GreatNonprofits Twitter Campaign launches July 14!
Over the past two weeks, we’ve been inspired by all the interesting and creative Tweets that we’ve seen from the amazing nonprofits participating in our Animal Welfare Campaign. The way these organizations are using Twitter to promote their work is so powerful that it’s inspired us to try something new ourselves: a campaign within a campaign!
For three days this week, we’re running a Twitter campaign for animal nonprofits to get reviews, highlight great work, and harness the power of animal-loving followers in 140 characters!
The Basics:
When: July 14-16
How it works: For 3 days only we’re going to watch how nonprofits working on animal welfare issues can use Twitter to get reviews and give you points for different activities. We want to learn from your creativity! Participating organizations will get:
• ONE point each time they Tweet about @GreatNonprofits and the campaign.
• TWO points every time someone reTweets one of their messages about the campaign or mentions @GreatNonprofits and their organization.
(Important note: In order for us to be about to track these, the Twitter user must actually mention GreatNonprofits using the “@GreatNonprofits” method.)
• THREE points for every review posted for their organization on GreatNonprofits during the special three day campaign (these reviews also count for the Animal Welfare Campaign and can qualify the organization as a Top-Rated Nonprofit at the end of July!)
What You’ll Win: At the end of the day on Friday we'll tally up the points and the organization with the most loyal tweeters will be:
• Featured at the top of our homepage as our Twitter Campaign Winner.
• Featured in a blog post about the campaign
• Highlighted on our Facebook page, and in our tweets!
We’re looking forward to seeing how you reach out to your followers and what an impact this can have!
Love animals, on Twitter, but not a nonprofit? You can also participate in the campaign and earn points for your favorite animal nonprofits by letting them know that they can take this opportunity to shine, and by retweeting their messages about the campaign!
Got questions? Need ideas on how to get started? Contact with any questions. Happy tweeting!
Nonprofits All Over U.S. Work On Behalf of Animals, Domestic and Wild
As we approach the midpoint of our first-ever Animal Rights Campaign, over three dozen nonprofits around the country have been reviewed by their stakeholders to date.
We are conducting the campaign in partnership with the American Humane Association, Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Humane Society of the United States, Wildlife Forever, I Love Rescue Animals, K9 Magazine, DogTipper.com, The Pet Museum, and No Meat Athlete.
Among the organizations getting reviews is United Animal Nations (UAN), in Sacramento, CA, which is dedicated to "bringing animals out of crisis and strengthening the bond between people and animals through a variety of programs, including emergency sheltering, disaster relief services, financial assistance and education.”
“I was deployed with the UAN to help with an animal hoarding case," writes fuzzyfriends. "It was a life changing experience for me! The UAN is one of the most awesome animal rescue organizations I have ever worked with! They were very efficient, properly trained, and most importantly, available 24/7 for these neglected animals! I am extremely honored to be a part of such a wonderful organization! I would travel the world over to help the UAN save our animals!"
The Cat Network in Miami, FL is a grass-roots organization with over 2500 volunteer and donor members that ”encourage(s) the public to adopt stray and abandoned cats as indoor-only pets and practice responsible ownership.”
Vincent1 writes: “There is a severe cat over-population problem in Miami. Due to lack of government funding there are very few opportunities for residents to get free roaming cats fixed at low cost. However, The Cat Network, an all volunteer organization, does provide access to low cost spay/neuter through it's certificate program, mobile spay/neuter clinic and partnerships with other local organizations for free spay days.”
Wolf Timbers, in Bolivar, OH, works to "enlighten and educate the public on the true nature of wolves."
Amos1 is one of those who is impressed: “It has been great to see how (the wolves) act towards each other and behave as individual members of the pack. It has been a pleasure to see the enjoyment by both the adults and children when they visit the facility. Everyone remarks how much more they understand about these beautiful animals after their visit.”
No More Homeless Pets in Utah works to "end the euthanasia of homeless dogs and cats statewide and to promote humane alternatives for feral cats" from its base in Sandy, UT.
“Volunteers like me will take the dogs out for walks one at a time to stretch their legs; relieve themselves on a hydrant and play a bit with the dogs," writes rainy. "I personally sing to them since they are the only creatures on the earth who have a taste for my songs. I will clean cages; walk dogs and do anything I'm asked. After a dog I have made friends with gets a home a feeling of huge satisfaction is shared by all.”
People Helping Horses provide "funding to local horse rescues, rehabilitation, education, and therapeutic riding organizations," from its base in Arlington, VA.
"I started volunteering at People Helping Horses in 2007 and have been hooked ever since, writes Melissa36. "PHH is an organization that truly cares for the horses they take in. Every decision that PHH makes (in business, finances, events etc.) is first and foremost based on what is best for the horses."
Writing about the North American Bear Center of Ely, MN, wickilyn calls it "an awesome place learning about bears and how to live with them in peace, I used to be terribly afraid of black bears but have found out they are really gentle creatures who's lives are ruled by fear and hunger, Dr. Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield are truly wonderful educators, and have helped me overcome my fear of these North American treasures, we should cherish them....... thank you."
There still is plenty of time left for nonprofits to get the word out about the campaign to their volunteers, donors, board members, and other stakeholders. Those groups that receive ten or more positive reviews during July will be recognized on the Top-Rated Animal Welfare Nonprofits List, which will be published at the end of the campaign.
The campaign will wrap up on July 31st.
Animal Welfare Campaign Partners:
American Humane Association Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane provides national leadership in developing policies, legislation, curricula and training programs -- and taking actions -- to protect children and animals from cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Animal Legal Defense Fund For more than three decades, the Animal Legal Defense Fund has been fighting to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system.
DogTipper.com features tips for dog lovers, by dog lovers as well as news, product reviews, celebrity canines, and more.
The Humane Society of the United States, which is the nation’s largest animal protection organization, has worked since 1954 to celebrate animals and confront cruelty in all its forms.
I Love Rescue Animals is a site dedicated to celebrating rescued animals, supporting shelters, rescues and animal rights organizations and to animal welfare worldwide. We seek to raise awareness utilizing the vast resources available online through social media and to inspire others to make a difference in their own communities.
K9 Magazine is the leading lifestyle title for modern, forward thinking dog lovers. Featuring a most diverse selection of content, everything from expert dog advice, book reviews and opinion to free pet stuff, pet product reviews and high quality editorial. Get a free trial copy today!
No Meat Athlete shares vegetarian recipes, marathon- and triathlon-training advice, and animal-friendly product reviews to spread the message that you can achieve incredible things without eating animals.
The Pet Museum The lives, times, art and history of our pets.
Wildlife Forever conserves America’s fish and wildlife through education, preservation of habitat and management of all things wild.
-- David Weir
Animal Nonprofits Getting Stakeholder Reviews in First-Ever Campaign
The first-ever GreatNonprofits Animal Welfare Campaign has kicked off for the month of July, and a number of organizations are receiving insightful reviews from people who have benefited from their services.
At the conclusion of the campaign, which is being conducted in partnership with a broad coalition of nonprofits, media partners, and bloggers, we will be publishing our first-ever Top-Rated Animal Nonprofits List of all organizations that receive at least ten positive user reviews during July.
Partner organizations include the American Humane Association, Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Humane Society of the United States, Wildlife Forever, I Love Rescue Animals, K9 Magazine, DogTipper.com, The Pet Museum, and No Meat Athlete,
Among the nonprofits receiving reviews to date is the Spay-Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP), in Houston, TX. SNAP’s mission is to "prevent the suffering and death of cats and dogs due to overpopulation, especially in low-income areas."
One reviewer, love-the-critters, wrote:"What I love most about SNAP in they will fix a feral kitty (in a live trap) with no appointment, complaints, or extra fees. I've taken many I've rescued this way to them and they are the only place I've found that will provide this very difficult service. And they are always willing to help. I took one non-feral kitty in a regular carrier, and the kitty busted out in the parking lot, which is right on the freeway! The staff came out and helped. We had to lay on the ground and surround the car he went under, and one of them had to reach into the engine and pull him out. It was a happy ending and I never used that carrier again! Yay SNAP! "
Another nonprofit getting reviews is Voiceless-MI, in Charlotte, MI.
"I came to Voiceless-MI looking for help and guidance on what to do with a pregnant stray cat," wrote bacalina. "Voiceless-MI called vets and asked questions and helped me make a decision on what to do. The cat went to the Voiceless-MI low-cost spay/neuter clinic. They also helped me find a home for her and another stray cat that I had taken in and was trying to adopt out on my own. When Voiceless-MI heard that there were many more abandoned cats in my neighborhood, they stepped up and wanted to help. With their help the stray cats in my neighborhood are getting the medical attention they need and some are getting homes. I came to them with one cat in need and they have saved the lives of so many other cats in my neighborhood."
The Bill Memorial Foundation in Beverly Hills, CA, received this review from sommerandfiona:
I adopted a dog from the Bill Foundation a year ago and my life hasn't been the same since. This little girl has brought so much joy to my life I did not know was even imaginable. The service the Bill Foundation provided me in the adoption process was wonderful and all the help they have provided me since the adoption has been just as great. If you are thinking about adopting they are great!"
The campaign will wrap up on July 31st.
Animal Welfare Campaign Partners:
American Humane Association Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane provides national leadership in developing policies, legislation, curricula and training programs -- and taking actions -- to protect children and animals from cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Animal Legal Defense Fund For more than three decades, the Animal Legal Defense Fund has been fighting to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system.
DogTipper.com features tips for dog lovers, by dog lovers as well as news, product reviews, celebrity canines, and more.
The Humane Society of the United States, which is the nation’s largest animal protection organization, has worked since 1954 to celebrate animals and confront cruelty in all its forms.
I Love Rescue Animals is a site dedicated to celebrating rescued animals, supporting shelters, rescues and animal rights organizations and to animal welfare worldwide. We seek to raise awareness utilizing the vast resources available online through social media and to inspire others to make a difference in their own communities.
K9 Magazine is the leading lifestyle title for modern, forward thinking dog lovers. Featuring a most diverse selection of content, everything from expert dog advice, book reviews and opinion to free pet stuff, pet product reviews and high quality editorial. Get a free trial copy today!
No Meat Athlete shares vegetarian recipes, marathon- and triathlon-training advice, and animal-friendly product reviews to spread the message that you can achieve incredible things without eating animals.
The Pet Museum The lives, times, art and history of our pets.
Wildlife Forever conserves America’s fish and wildlife through education, preservation of habitat and management of all things wild.
-- David Weir
Nonprofits Fight BP Over Fate of Animals in Spill Cleanup
The Fourth of July weekend marked a milestone in the BP oil spill – though not a good one. On Saturday, the oil finally made its way onto the shores of Texas in the form of golf ball-sized tar balls. Signs of oil are now evident across 500 miles of the Gulf coast.
Meanwhile last week, the Animal Welfare Institute, Center for Biological Diversity, Turtle Island Restoration Network and Animal Legal Defense Fund filed a joint lawsuit against BP for its controlled burns of the oil slicks. The groups contend that the controlled burns are killing endangered sea turtles that are stuck in the oil.
But sea turtles are not the only species threatened by the Gulf oil spill. Surge Desk lists whale sharks, brown pelicans, dolphins, sperm whales and bluefin tuna among “BP’s animal victims to date.”
With the oil spill wreaking havoc on so many species and their ecosystems, it is timely (in a sad way) that GreatNonprofits is focusing on animal welfare nonprofits this month. Until July 31, any nonprofits working on behalf of animals are eligible to qualify for our top-rated animal nonprofits list, which will be published at the conclusion of the campaign. All it takes is ten positive reviews on GreatNonprofits to qualify as a top-rated organization.
Have you had a particularly memorable experience with an animal nonprofit? What is your opinion of the animal and conservation organizations lending a helping hand in the oil spill cleanup efforts? Make your voice heard on GreatNonprofits.org.
-- Xenia Shih
101 Organizations Make 2010 Top-Rated Health Nonprofits List
Congratulations to the 101 organizations working to improve the health of our communities have qualified for the 2010 Top-Rated Health Nonprofits List, on the basis of user reviews submitted during our national campaign in June.
The reviews were posted as part of the 2010 GreatNonprofits Health Campaign, conducted in partnership with the National Association for Health and Fitness, Mental Health America, Diabetes Hands Foundation, Cancer Schmancer, FACE AIDS, HopeLab and Blisstree.
Over the course of the campaign, 50,000 people visited the GreatNonprofits site, and 278 nonprofit organizations working to improve the health of our communities were rated and reviewed by stakeholders.
In the process, a total of 3,458 new user reviews were gathered.
All the organizations on the top-rated list received ten or more positive reviews.
“We are excited to have learned about the many wonderful nonprofit organizations that are working to improve the health of our communities,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. “We hope our campaign helps bring deserved attention to their efforts.”
About the Campaign
The health campaign ran throughout the month of June and all reviews appeared on the GreatNonprofits.org and GuideStar.org websites. Nonprofits with 10 or more positive reviews are listed on the GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Health Nonprofits List. Review submissions must have been received from June 1st through June 30th, 2010.
Partners in the Campaign
Mental Health America is the nation’s largest and oldest community-based network dedicated to helping all Americans live mentally healthier lives.
National Association for Health and Fitness— The network of State Governors’ Councils and Coalitions. Mission: To improve quality of life through participation in physical activity and sports.
FaceAIDS fights HIV/AIDS by building a movement of young leaders dedicated to global health equity and social justice.
The Diabetes Hands Foundation (DHF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that connects people touched by diabetes and raises diabetes awareness.
Cancer Schmancer is dedicated to saving women's lives through early detection of cancer.
HopeLab “We combine rigorous research with innovative solutions to improve the health and quality of life of young people with chronic illness.”
Blisstree is a new health and wellness site for discerning women in their 30s and 40s who appreciate smart information delivered with a sharp sense of humor.
GuideStar is the leading source of philanthropic research on the web.
GreatNonprofits is the leading provider of user-generated ratings and reviews of nonprofits.
First-Ever Animal Welfare Campaign Launches to Identify Leading Nonprofits
GreatNonprofits today is launching the 2010 GreatNonprofits Animal Welfare Campaign to identify top-rated organizations working on behalf of animals, both wild and domestic, here and overseas.
Our partners in the campaign, which will run for the month of July, include the The Humane Society, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, I Love Rescue Animals, Wildlife Forever, and the American Humane Association; and media partners DogTipper and K9 Magazine.
Any nonprofit working on behalf of animals that has at least 10 positive reviews by July 31st will be recognized on the GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Animal Nonprofits List, which will be published at the conclusion of the campaign.
“There are so many wonderful nonprofit organizations working on behalf of animals, including conservation groups, rescue organizations, service groups, and many more,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. “Through this campaign, we hope to shine a spotlight on all of these different types of important work.”
Participants in the campaign often receive increased exposure to donors and volunteers and increased visibility in their communities and the media.
The user reviews gathered by GreatNonprofits are written by anyone with personal experience with a nonprofit, i.e., a donor, volunteer, board member, client, or member of the public.
Over the past year more than 450,000 people visited GreatNonprofits to read and write these reviews.
About the Campaign
The animal welfare campaign will run throughout the month of July and all reviews will appear on both the GreatNonprofits.org and GuideStar.org websites. Nonprofits with 10 or more positive reviews will be included on the GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Animal Nonprofits List. Review submissions must take place from July 1st through 31st, 2010.
Partners in the Campaign
American Humane Association Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane provides national leadership in developing policies, legislation, curricula and training programs -- and taking actions -- to protect children and animals from cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Animal Legal Defense Fund For more than three decades, the Animal Legal Defense Fund has been fighting to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system.
DogTipper.com features tips for dog lovers, by dog lovers as well as news, product reviews, celebrity canines, and more.
The Humane Society of the United States, which is the nation’s largest animal protection organization, has worked since 1954 to celebrate animals and confront cruelty in all its forms.
I Love Rescue Animals is a site dedicated to celebrating rescued animals, supporting shelters, rescues and animal rights organizations and to animal welfare worldwide. We seek to raise awareness utilizing the vast resources available online through social media and to inspire others to make a difference in their own communities.
K9 Magazine is the leading lifestyle title for modern, forward thinking dog lovers. Featuring a most diverse selection of content, everything from expert dog advice, book reviews and opinion to free pet stuff, pet product reviews and high quality editorial. Get a free trial copy today!
Wildlife Forever conserves America’s fish and wildlife through education, preservation of habitat and management of all things wild.
Oil Spill Cleanup Languishes as Hurricane Passes Nearby
As Hurricane Alex churns through the Gulf of Mexico and pushes ever more tar balls onto the Gulf Coast shores, BP's oil spill cleanup efforts are grinding to a halt. Though the hurricane should not hit the oil spill area directly, the Category 1 storm has brought strong winds and 12-foot high waves to the disaster area.
Cleanup workers have not had to evacuate the area yet, but an evacuation plan is ready all alongthe Louisiana coast for the entire hurricane season. In the event of an emergency, BP will have to evacuate its thousands of workers and either take or nail down cleanup equipment at least 16 hours before area residents are evacuated.
Meanwhile, in the wake of the spill, people all over the world have been demonstrating against offshore oil drilling. As Hurricane Alex was gathering wind this past weekend, thousands of people around the world were gathering on their local beaches in a symbolic protest against offshore oil drilling. “Hands Across the Sand” united beach-going strangers on Saturday, June 26, and some of our readers were among those who made it out to their local events.
Stephanie from Wallingford, CT, was participating in a Project Limulus crab census on some small beaches in Guilford when she and her fellow volunteers decided to hold their own “Hands Across the Sand” event – not once, but twice:
“There were 7 of us Project Limulus volunteers, and we paused in our work to hold our own, impromptu demonstration. Then, at the second each, a short distance away, we performed our census, watched by about 20 beachgoers. After we finished, we held a second Hands Across the Sand, on that beach, explaining to the people on the beach what we were doing…most of the people joined us!”
Dave from Clearwater, FL wrote:
“I just went today and participated in this wonderful event! There were people as far as the eye could see! ‘Hands Across the Sand’ was a success in Clearwater Florida!”
There were approximately 200 “Hands Across the Sand” events in Florida, and 500 in the rest of the world. If you attended one of these, be sure to let us know!
-- Xenia Shih
Three Innovative Health Nonprofits Working Here and Overseas
With a little under a week left in our 2010 Health Nonprofits Campaign, we've passed the 225 mark in the number of nonprofit organizations that have received stakeholder reviews here at GNP.
Any group that receives ten or more positive reviews during June will be recognized on the Top-Rated Health Nonprofits List, which will be published at the conclusion of the campaign.
GNP is conducting this campaign in partnership with GuideStar, the National Association for Health and Fitness, Mental Health America, the Diabetes Hands Foundation, Cancer Schmancer, FACE AIDS, HopeLab and Blisstree.
Among the hundreds of nonprofits receiving reviews is weSPARK, in Sherman Oaks, CA, which is "dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients, their family, and friends."
"After losing my father to leukemia a year ago, I was referred to WeSpark," writes rs1984. "The people there are wonderful, and it's incredible that they offer so much support and so many services - and they don't charge a dime! I went to a group for grief counseling and it was really helpful."
Another nonprofit attracting reviews is the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, in Santa Cruz, CA.
As an Iraq war veteran, I find Their research astounding," writes willbuh. "Instead of prolonging the constant day-to-day dealings of PTSD with SSRI's , they're looking for a way to deal with it quickly and effectively. After reading about MAPS I quickly learned that there are options in life, and as a medical professional, I have put my educational goals toward doing all I can to not only become a part of MAPS but to also spread the knowledge about Psychedelic studies. I fully support MAPS and all of the incredible work they are doing."
In addition to the many organizations working domestically, there are those involved overseas as well.
One of these is Cents of Relief, in New Haven, CT, which provides "education, healthcare and rehabilitative programs to women and children who have been trafficked or are at risk of human trafficking" in South Asia.
"Through Cents of Relief, I have been working in Kalighat, Kolkata (Calcutta) at a center that provides health, education and vocational training for women and children in Kalighat (the oldest red light district in Kolkata)," writes madisonatyale. "Cents of Relief provides funds and support that provide a tremendous amount of support and compassion for women in prostitution. Despite the large number of women and children in need in the area, there are very few resources to assist them or help them find a path out of sex work and extreme poverty. Cents of Relief's staff and volunteers (and the programs they run) truly provide necessary services where there are few or none."
The campaign will wrap up as of June 30th.
-- David Weir
BP Oil Spill: Ordinary Folks and Celebrities Join the Cause
With an estimated 1.5 million gallons of oil now leaking into the Gulf of Mexico every day, many nonprofit groups and individuals are volunteering time, money and labor to the clean-up effort.
These include celebrities like Jimmy Buffett, who has donated the $43,000 necessary to build a boat that could contribute to the animal rescue effort; and Kevin Costner, who, as previously mentioned here, has committed 15 years and $20 million towards developing a centrifuge that separates oil from water.
But celebrities aren't the only ones getting involved.
Florida boat builder Mark Castlow and a friend devised a vessel called the Shallow Water Attention Terminal (S.W.A.T.) that is capable of navigating through shallow water estuaries to help rescue trapped animals. The first boat is expected to arrive on the Gulf Coast this week, with three additional boats in the works.
Meanwhile, a global demonstration of public concern over the spill is scheduled to take place this Saturday, June 26, with people gathering on beaches, parks and cities around the world to oppose offshore oil drilling and show support for the clean energy movement. The aptly-named "Hands Across The Sand" movement was founded by surfer and restaurateur Dave Rauschkolb in October of 2009.
Saturday's event is sponsored by organizations like the Sierra Club, Surfrider Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, Rainforest Action Network and the Center for Biological Diversity.
You can read stakeholder reviews of all of these organizations on GreatNonprofits.
For example, Dherron2005 wrote of the Surfrider Foundation:
“Growing up on the Florida coastline I learned of the importance of a clean and healthy waterway system. Now that I have moved to the west coast, Surfrider is still here to make sure that we have a balance between industry, lifestyle and clean water…let me assure you [S]urfrider has the ability to reach every person of all backgrounds and beliefs because clean beaches, coastlines, and water is important to everyone on the planet.”
Another reviewer on our site praised the Center for Biological Diversity for its willingness to support every effort, big or small, in the race to clean up the Coast:
"The Center treated [my 12 year old son] with respect and kindness as he organized a benefit concert to raise money to aid in the Gulf disaster. They highlighted his efforts on their "Activist "page and were always responsive and courteous in their communications with him...His concert was a success, he raised well over $1,000 for the Center and, to use a bit of a worn phase -- he feels empowered."
We'll continue to monitor efforts by nonprofits to help clean up the oil spill here at GNP. As part of this effort, watch for our Animal Welfare Campaign that will launch on July 1st.
-- Xenia Shih
Nonprofits Try Creative Approaches to Support Those Struggling With Illness
With about ten days left in our 2010 Health Nonprofits Campaign, 186 organizations working to improve the health of our communities have gathered new user reviews.
Any nonprofit that gathers at least ten positive reviews during the month of June will qualify for the Top-Rated Health Nonprofits List, to be published at the conclusion of the campaign.
These reviews, which come from stakeholders such as donors, volunteers, clients, board members or others, appear both on the GreatNonprofits site and also on GuideStar, the premier donor research site on the web.
Among the groups attracting new reviews (24 so far) is the Michigan Lyme Disease Association, located in Wayne, MI.
The MLDA is an all-volunteer organization that works to prevent Lyme Disease and other tick-borne conditions, and to provide support to those already afflicted.
"I don't know where I'd be today if it wasn't for the MLDA," writes thepearl in a review. "I was going through the loop of doctors to find out what was happening to me, because I felt, literally, like every system in my body was going crazy all at the same time. I was getting test after test, but nobody could find anything wrong... (The MLDA staff) were so very helpful in helping me find a doctor to see if Lyme disease was the cause of my problems, and so very kind in just listening to me."
One striking aspect of this review and many of the others we are receiving at GNP this month is how many people turn to nonprofits to help them deal with relatively uncommon health conditions that often seem to go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed by the conventional health-care system.
Another theme running through the reviews in this campaign is the creative support role many nonprofits are playing for people facing extremely difficult circumstances due to the sickness of family members.
"My husband was diagnosed with widely metasticized cancer when our little boys were 2 and 6, " writes appreciating in her review of the Ceres Community Project, based in Sebastopol, CA. "To suddenly have all the physical, emotional and financial demands of trying to research and heal his cancer at the same time as all the demands of a young family, was overwhelming...I don't have words to express what a difference the Ceres Community Project made in our lives, on all levels. In addition to amazingly, literally feeding us, the Ceres folks helped us feel cared for and held so beautifully. The meals sustained us during a devastating time."
Ceres' mission statement illustrates how it pursues a set of inter-related objectives to advance the social good: "The Ceres Community Project works to restore locally-grown, organic whole food to its place as the foundation of health for people, communities and the planet through an integrated model that provides those facing cancer and other life-threatening illnesses with nourishing meals, gives teens experiences of growing and preparing healthy food, and educates the larger community about the connection between food, healing and wellness."
Another nonprofit that utilizes a creative approach to supporting those struggling with illness is Therapet in Troup, TX, which utilizes specially trained and certified animals to promote health, hope and healing.
"I have been a volunteer with Therapet for about 5 years, " writes jmalone. "I have a Therapet dog and volunteer with him at various hospitals and psychiatric prison...I am always inspired by how all of our Therapet animals affect and touch the lives of our patients and families. They calm fears, help relieve pain and take patients and families minds off their tragedies and worries for a while. We constantly hear stories from individuals who tell how at their lowest moments, a Therapet has come and lifted their spirits. I love working with this organization and it's wonderful volunteers, both two and four legged."
Check out the many other nonprofits that are also gathering reviews during the campaign, which GNP is conducting in partnership with the following prominent health-oriented organizations: the National Association for Health and Fitness, Mental Health America , the Diabetes Hands Foundation, Cancer Schmancer, FACE AIDS, HopeLab and Blisstree.
-- David Weir
Six Top Health Nonprofits and What Their Stakeholders Say About Them
One thing that's become apparent during our 2010 Health Nonprofits Campaign is the wide diversity of services nonprofit organizations are providing our communities.
Among the leading organizations that have received stakeholders reviews this month is the NEW ORLEANS FAITH HEALTH ALLIANCE, in New Orleans, LA, which already had 22 reviews as of earlier today.
"I manage a hospital outpatient diabetes center in New Orleans and appreciate the medical home NOFHA will provide uninsured workers who have diabetes," wrote pam-butler. "Diabetes care is largely self care, and a lack of health insurance should not prevent someone from achieving and maintaining tight blood sugar control. I am impressed with the passion of everyone I have met associated with NOFHA and look forward to working with them."
Another nonprofit, MEDICAL STUDENTS FOR CHOICE, in Philadelphia, PA, has 24 user reviews.
"MSFC is one of the most efficiently and effectively run nonprofits I have ever come across," writes Miranda1. "Its mission is unique, and critical to the future of women's health. Its influence is far-reaching and money donated to MSFC is well utilized."
A third organization, the LAM FOUNDATION, in Cincinnati, OH, has 28 reviews.
"A trip to the ER back in June 2008 is what led to my learning about the LAM foundation," writes donofjm. I went to the ER thinking I had gall stones only to discover I had a collapsed lung. My family and I wanted to know why - I wasn't in an accident -I had never had any issues with my lungs before. If it wasn't for the LAM foundation and their efforts to ensure doctors and pulmonologists know about this disease I may have been sent home without any real diagnosis or treatment."
The APS FOUNDATION OF AMERICA, INC., of La Crosse, WI, already has 28 reviews as well.
"I was just recently diagnosed with APS and like many people before me, came to the internet looking for and finding the answers to many of my questions at this web site," writes Donna11. " If it wasn't for all the many wonderful people whom were there to chat with, who understood and know the pain and confusion that accompanies this disease,I am not sure what I would have done. So I thank you APS Foundation for being there for me."
The WASHBURN CHILD GUIDANCE CENTER, in Minneapolis, MN, has 30 reviews so far.
"Washburn is one of the only mental health services available to children in Minneapolis," writes a donor, Maureen9. "I worked as a principal in the Minneapolis Public Schools for 20 years and the needs for these services far outweighed the supply. Washburn was the only place to turn for extreme situations."
The VHL FAMILY ALLIANCE, in Boston, MA, has 31 reviews.
"(T)he VHL Family Alliance helped save my brother's life last year," writes kminer. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"
-- David Weir
BP oil spill: Nonprofits under fire along with BP
With BP’s Gulf Coast oil disaster entering its eighth week without resolution, the energy company has turned to an unlikely source – actor Kevin Costner – for help. Costner spent 15 years and $20 million working with his brother and scientists to develop a centrifuge that separates oil from water. BP recently purchased 32 of these centrifuges in its efforts to clean up the oil spill that has wreaked havoc on the Gulf Coast’s ecosystem.
This is not the first time that energy giant BP has reached out to people outside the energy industry. Over the years, BP has made a conscious effort to present an eco-friendly image by forming relationships with numerous environmental organizations, including the Nature Conservancy, Conservation International, Environmental Defense Fund, Sierra Club and Audubon.
Since the spill, the Nature Conservancy has come under fire for its relationship with BP. Over the years, it has received nearly $10 million in both cash and land contributions from BP, which holds a seat on its International Leadership Council.
One commenter on The Nature Conservancy’s blog writes, “I understand the need for non-profit organizations that do good work to find money wherever they can. Bu[t] I do have to say that I wonder whether this incidence isn’t a net loss for the environmental movement.”
Indeed, nonprofit organizations, especially small-scale nonprofits, have to constantly address the issue of funding. And when a nonprofit receives money or gifts from affluent donors such as BP, it has to question whether the acceptance of these funds is consistent with its mission.
But is it fair to judge a nonprofit based on its relationship with a for-profit business that has become embroiled in a scandal after the initial partnering?
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this issue in the comments below. (Note: You must be registered to comment.)
-- Xenia Shih
Top-Rated Health Nonprofits From All Over the U.S.
The 2010 GreatNonprofits Health Campaign has already attracted stakeholder reviews of 134 organizations to date and 29 of them have tentatively qualified for our Top-Rated List, which will be published at the end of the month-long campaign.
In order to view the complete list of all the health nonprofits participating in the campaign so far, you can visit the campaign page.
Any nonprofit working to improve the health of our communities that attracts ten or more positive reviews during June will qualify for the list. Those organizations will then be able to use the various tools we provide here at GNP to promote their status to funders, volunteers and the press as a top-rated group.
Among the organizations that have gathered ten or more reviews in the first half of June are the following nonprofits:
WASHBURN CHILD GUIDANCE CENTER, Minneapolis, MN
VHL FAMILY ALLIANCE, Boston, MA
APS FOUNDATION OF AMERICA, INC., La Crosse, WI
LAM FOUNDATION, Cincinnati, OH
MEDICAL STUDENTS FOR CHOICE, Philadelphia, PA
UNTIL THERE’S A CURE FOUNDATION, Redwood City, CA
-- David Weir
Tweet to Tweet With @HopeLab
One of the most exciting things about experimenting with social media is the opportunity to connect with and learn about new and fascinating nonprofits. We met HopeLab on Twitter a few weeks ago, and after exchanging some tweets, they agreed to join our 2010 Health Campaign, launched in collaboration with Guidestar.
Because we met via tweeting, it seemed appropriate that we should use Twitter to spread the word about the campaign, and to learn more about both of our organizations. To that end, tomorrow morning from 9 AM to 9:30 AM PST, we'll be having a Twitter conversation -- a Twitterview -- with HopeLab and you're invited to join us!
What is a Twitter Interview (Twitterview)?
Glad you asked! A Twitterview is a two-way, real-time tweet dialog (140 character question and answer) between two parties (in this case @HopeLab and @GreatNonprofits). It’s sort of like texting, but the tweets are out there for all of Twitter to see. We’ll be talking about our missions, using social media to promote health, and more.
Got a question?
You can join in! Simply tweet your question and mark it with the #twtrview hashtag! Or simply use the hashtag to follow the conversation and learn more.
More on HopeLab
HopeLab combines rigorous research with innovative solutions to improve the health and quality of life of young people with chronic illness. By working closely with young people effected by Cancer, Obesity, Sickle Cell disease, Autism, and Major Depressive Disorder, HopeLab address diseases in which there is significant unmet need among young people.
We are proud to have partnered with HopeLab for the 2010 Health Campaign. If you have experience working with this inspiring organization and want to tell the world about their work, please write them a review! You can also learn more about their programs on their website.
Mark your calendars!
What: Twitterview with @HopeLab and @GreatNonprofits
When: Wednesday June 16 from 9 AM to 9:30 AM PST
Who: @HopeLab and @GreatNonprofits (and you!)
Hashtag: #twtrview
For more information on how to join in email
Health Nonprofits From Around the Country Getting Great Reviews
As we head into the third week of our month-long Health Nonprofits Campaign, over 120 organizations working to improve the health of our communities have received new stakeholder reviews.
Every nonprofit that gets ten or more positive reviews during June will be listed on our Top-rated Health Nonprofits List, which will be published at the end of the campaign.
Among the organizations attracting user reviews is the Side By Side Clubhouse in Stone Mountainn, GA.
"Side By Side meets people where they are and restores dignity and purpose to people living with the long-term effects of brain injury that continue long after medical treatment has done all it can," writes crb. "(It) gives members a reason to get out of bed in the morning and a place to go to be productive members of community. At the Clubhouse, they are able to contribute their abilities to productive activity, as well as stretch and strengthen those skills toward potential broader participation in community. (It) provides a personal support community in which individuals are valued as they are, rather than seen only for what they have lost."
Another health nonprofit that is receiving reviews is the Cody Unser First Step Foundation, of Albuquerque, NM.
"I first met Cody at the University of Redlands where she was a student of mine," writes mgmtrobin, a board member. "When she was hit with TM at the age of 13, many would have given up. Her determination to make a difference in the lives of other disabled individuals is what most stands out in my mind. Through the dedication of many individuals, the foundation has touched the lives of numerous disabled persons through research, increased awareness, and the scuba program which allows participants to experience the freedom of movement often lacking in their everyday lives. This pushes participants to reach beyond their disabilities and to consider what is possible. To witness this transformation is something everyone should see."
A client, spineywhite adds: "One year ago, CUFSF opened my eyes to many rewarding lessons. First, they introduced me to an exciting sport that does not see limitations. Cody inspired me to push myself beyond my own expectations, by scuba diving. The feelings of being 'free' from the wheelchair were incredible. Now I take this experience of overcoming obstacles into my classroom in hopes that my message will inspire my students to push beyond their limitations."
A third nonprofit getting reveiws during our campaign is the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts in Milford, MA.
One client, jean4 writes: "What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... learning. You don't know what you don't know. The opportunity to interact with others with the same disability is invaluable...(it) (p)rovides education and support services for adults & children with spina bifida. Offers annual benefit to help pay for equipment that is not covered by insurance. Great way to meet people who also have spina bifida. Contacts greatly help assist with medical & education decision making."
The campaign runs until June 30. Our partners in the campaign include the National Association for Health and Fitness, Mental Health America, the Diabetes Hands Foundation, Cancer Schmancer, FACE AIDS, HopeLab and Blisstree.
-- David Weir
Spotlight: Six Health Nonprofits Through the Eyes of Their Clients and Volunteers
One of the main purposes of our monthly campaigns at Great Nonprofits is to bring attention to worthy organizations in the form of stories told by their stakeholders.
Ten days into our 2010 Health Campaign, around 90 nonprofits working to improve the health of our communities have received new reviews. here is a sampling of the groups and what their reviewers say about them:
The Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation (Salt Lake City, UT) "I lost my youngest granddaughter on November 22, 2009. She had been treated for seizures for years. A gene problem that had been passed on from me to my daughter to Abbey. Our pain is so great we can hardly function. But because Abbey was such a giving and loving little girl we had to do something. Laura and all the people a SADS has been great. We have gotten so much love and support for everyone. We are always thinking of ways to raise money to better serve the organization and keep Abbey's memory alive." -- dianne1
Until There’s A Cure (Redwood City, CA) A national organization dedicated to eradicating HIV/AIDS by raising awareness and funds to combat this pandemic. "Through their jewelry UTAC is really raising HIV and AIDS awareness. They keep me up to date with frequent emails about what they are doing in the community and how one can get involved." -- lo1
The Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative (Burton, MI) "I have been involved with AAQI since 2006. My mom died with Alzheimer's mid-2005 after a multi-year descent. It broke my heart when she no longer knew my name ... Now, I stitch in her honor and memory to help AAQI raise desperately needed research funds. No one makes an Alzheimer's journey alone - as Mother Theresa put it: 'We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love.' This is SO true of AAQI - together, one quilt at a time, we ARE making a difference." -- quiltdivajulie
HEALS (Huntsville, AL) HEALS provides free school-based comprehensive medical and dental services, and social services to children in Madison County, AL. "HEALS is a wonderful organization that provides a much needed service to ... students who would otherwise do without. They have become a national model for school based services and have literally impacted thousands of students and their families..." -- tim11
The CJ Foundation for SIDS (Hackensack, NJ) "In June 2009, our 5.5 month old daughter died of SIDS during her afternoon nap. We knew what SIDS was and had followed all the 'ways to reduce the risk' and our baby was still gone. Within two days of contact to the CJ Foundation, they had mailed us a book, "The SIDS & Infant Death Survival Guide" and other grief material. But it did not stop there. I was contacted by a member of the board who had also lost a child to SIDS and instantly had someone who understood what it was like. In the almost year since our daughter has been gone, the staff at the CJ Foundation has reached out to us in countless ways to assist us in our walk with grief. They remembered her birthday and the never cease to send a card or email right when we need it most. They listen to me cry when needed and give me encouragement." -- peacock
Coachart.org (Los Angeles, CA) CoachArt was founded by Zander Lurie in memory of his father, Dr. Arthur “Art” Lurie, who...devoted his life to the healing and wellness of his patients, and loved teaching and mentoring kids. CoachArt lessons are completely free of charge to the children and their families. Due to the physical, emotional and financial burdens that these families endure, CoachArt is providing a service that would otherwise be inaccessible to them...In this creative learning environment, they are able to regain self-esteem, social skills and independence that is lost while battling chronic illness. "Coachart can be described in one word - phenomenal. I am amazed by the talent of the kids that are a part of the organization. When I attended the art show, I was awed by the works that were on display. I couldn't believe that they were the masterpieces of the kids themselves. Great talent, great vision. It was truly inspiring. Moreso, I love the mission of the organization and the passion that the staff and volunteers all share. That passion could be felt by everyone in attendance and I know that the kids themselves feel it too." -- a reviewer
-- David Weir
Stakeholder Stories—A Concept as Old as Time
(Note: Check out our new Facebook page, GreatInspirations, as described later in this post.)
Now and again I've caught myself describing what we do here at GreatNonprofits -- publishing user reviews of nonprofit organizations -- as something "new."
There is a related tendency among many people (myself included) to view the emergence of interactive social media, like Facebook and Twitter, plus review sites like TripAdvisor or Yelp as "new" developments without any real historical precedent.
But, when you think about it, that's not true. All that this online chatter actually entails is a digital version of what human beings have been doing ever since we were sitting around campfires in caves -- telling each other stories.
Among our advisers here at GNP is Andy Goodman, who has persuasively demonstrated the power of good story-telling in all forms of public interest work. There may in fact be no better way to promote a worthy organization than to tell its story well.
But, as is the case with many aspects of work in the socially conscious sector of society, who exactly should be in control of telling that story?
Most organizations pay at least some attention to PR, if only making sure that the "About Us" page on their website does a good job in presenting their work. But that is still a version of the "one to many" communications model that fails to take advantage of the interactive possibilities implicit in social media, which enable both "one to one" and "many to many" communication opportunities.
We think about these things at GNP when encouraging our many nonprofit partners to gather stakeholder reviews, whether they come from clients, volunteers, donors, board members, or anyone else who has had a personal experience with one of these organizations.
That is the basic idea of user reviews -- to help these stories about a nonprofit come to light.
In the private sector, it is widely accepted that companies no longer are in as complete control of their brand images as they were in the recent past -- before digital technology facilitated the ability of the "crowd" to join the party.
Now, the opinion of a dissatisfied customer -- or a fervent supporter -- can be easily amplified and shared with the world in a process that amounts to shared brand management between the company and its public.
When you evaluate the nonprofit world in this context, the critical importance of what your stakeholders think of you suddenly comes into sharp focus. Nonprofits may have been a bit slow to show up in social media, but now that they are doing so more aggressively, the rules of shared brand management are coming into play.
One of the very best ways nonprofits can participate in social media, we believe, is to encourage their stakeholders to write the kinds of reviews that appear here at GreatNonprofits, and on our partner sites around the web.
Toward that end, we have just today launched a new Facebook page called GreatInspirations, where you can encourage your supporters to tell your organization's story.
And as new as all of this may seem to some, really all we are doing is going back to basics -- telling stories about the things we know, which in nonprofit work can often amount to some pretty inspiring tales indeed!
-- David Weir
