New White Paper: Social Networks for Nonprofits

In addition to the Nonprofit Social Network Survey, we're also publishing a white paper today: Social Networks for Nonprofits: Why You Should Grow Your Own.

Here's an excerpt:

As you consider how social networking will play a role in your organization, consider what motivates your constituents to join your community. We’ve developed a list of eight reasons people participate in social networks.

1. Social Needs: Participation in the social network fills a basic human need to create relationships and connect with others. Example: A traveling nurse maintains connections with friends back home via Facebook.

2. Emotional Support: The social network provides the space for emotional reinforcement from peers in the network. Example: A mother of an autistic child shares daily parenting challenges with other parents via online discussion groups.

Download the white paper here.