The Web and You

Budget cuts and time constraints have pushed many non-profits and small agencies into the web arena. FCASV has recently entered stage left by updating its website, introducing new features such as an online learning center and member resources section, and conducting trainings and meetings by webinar. FCASV redesigned the website to take advantage of new technologies that allow for greater participant interaction and engagement. The goal is to improve access to resources and increase the website’s potential for outreach.

Web 2.0 refers to internet technology that goes beyond a platform for providing information to one that allows for information sharing and user participation. Examples of Web 2.0 activities include social networking, blogs, and media sharing. Rape crisis programs are using these activities to improve client services, community outreach, fundraising and organizing. Facebook, YouTube and Flickr offer programs an opportunity to engage with their communities, increase membership and communicate with others interested in sexual violence issues. Participation is free and easy to use.

Young people, especially, are looking to the internet for more than information; they expect opportunities to interact and provide input. Rape crisis programs can meet this demand through social networking and creating a platform for people to blog, tweet and communicate around the issue of sexual violence. FCASV recently joined Facebook, and its fan base is steadily increasing. Fans can join discussions, add posts, update information, share photos and create links to related topics and programs.

 The California Coalition Against Sexual Assault has an excellent website. In addition to traditional website material covering sexual violence information, a calendar of events, rape crisis center program services and locations, it utilizes many feature of Web 2.0 technology. You can blog on the home page or in the topic links, follow CALCASA on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook. Each content area of the site offers visitors numerous opportunities to interact with other website users or topics.  This format gives users an opportunity to engage with the community of sexual violence advocacy and to increase involvement and commitment to the issue.

Many online resources are available for non-profits to learn how to use web technology to their benefit. The Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society website provides links to numerous resources for nonprofits with topics covering general information, software and hardware and fundraising.  Another good resource is NetAction, a “California-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting use of the Internet for effective grassroots citizen action campaigns, and to educating the public, policy makers, and the media about technology policy issues.” Take a look at NetAction’s online training “Virtual Activist 2.0”. It provides information on how to use the web as a tool for organizing, especially “email activism.”

NetAction developed the following chart to compare traditional and internet communication. It provides examples on how non-profits can use virtual town halls, chat rooms and web forums as new means for communication. Want to know more? Google it!