A trio of local nonprofit organizations is hoping to use social networking to expand awareness of their agencies. United Family Services, the Ada Jenkins Center and Davidson Housing Coalition on Friday announced a media campaign called “Tell Two” that will incorporate messages via email, Facebook, Twitter and the Web.

“It’s innovative because we are asking the public to understand that our strength lies in cooperation and not just in the individual work we do as agencies.”

Kathryn Firmin-Sellers
United Family Services/Tell Two co-organizer

Three Lake Norman non-profits launch a ‘viral’ media campaign

SOURCE: United Family Services

United Family Services’ Mooresville/Lake Norman Office, The Ada Jenkins Center and the Davidson Housing Coalition have formed a media campaign called “Tell Two” to help raise awareness of the agencies through social networking.

The purpose of the media campaign is to generate attention and excitement for the agencies’ programs and services by encouraging individuals to spread the word “virally.”

Individuals are encouraged to tell others about the campaign and its Web site through their Facebook, Twitter and e-mail accounts.

“It’s innovative because we are asking the public to understand that our strength lies in cooperation and not just in the individual work we do as agencies,” said UFS Mooresville/Lake Norman Regional Director and Tell Two co-organizer Kathryn Firmin-Sellers. “We are sharing our individual ‘friend networks’ which takes a lot of trust.”

Ada Jenkins Center Executive Director and Tell Two co-organizer Georgia H. Krueger said that the new approach allows the agencies to leverage their resources and cut costs.

“Having a joint campaign would be unheard of in the for-profit world,” Ms. Krueger said. ”We believe this partnership is the best use our resources. It helps us to be better stewards of our dollars in doing these activities together.”

Through the collaborative program, the three non-profits are able to promote their resources and services that help struggling individuals and families obtain housing and basic health services, educational and job training, and personal and financial stability.

For more information, visit: www.TellTwo.org.