Charity embraces social media trends

As well as the colourful mix of businesses and individuals making expert use of Twitter, charities are increasingly turning to social media too.

Community Fundraising Manager Lucy Proctor, who has worked at the Shrewsbury branch of the @SevernHospice for the past seven years, has recently discovered how Twitter can help the charity to raise money, promote events and services, and network with new volunteers.

"We joined Twitter in September as part of a general social media policy, and it's very much a first step for us," explains Lucy.

"There's so much happening online at the moment and I think you've got to react to that and find the best ways to reach people and speak their language."

Lucy is using the site to tweet about local fundraising events, the activities of the Hospice's supporters and daily life within the Hospice.

And there have already been several success stories through Twitter – local tweeters like @JimInTheMorning and @Valdary have volunteered at the Hospice, whilst @Fareground, who featured in last week's column, has been organising a Winter Solstice Ceilidh to raise money for their cause.

Working on behalf of the Severn Hospice branches at Shrewsbury, Apley Castle and Newtown, Lucy organises some of the area's most eagerly-anticipated annual fundraising events, including the Dragon Boat Festival in Shrewsbury and the Midnight Walks in Telford.

"The midnight walks are amazing!" says Lucy. "On our first walk, we expected people to be exhausted after setting off at midnight on a ten-mile route, but they were all buzzing from the wonderful atmosphere!"

The walks started last year in Telford and took place in both Telford and Shrewsbury this year, raising a total of £37,000 so far.

"They're women-only walks but the guys can get involved to by volunteering as marshals and stewards on the walks and helping to keep the women safe."

Lucy is also organising a Spring Walk in Telford, which takes place on 28th April 2010 from the Maxel factory, and on the same day the Hospice will have a team of runners taking part in the London Marathon.

"If you've registered to run the London Marathon and you're looking for a good cause to support, we'd be delighted for you to run for us!"

As well as arranging events, Lucy helps local businesses and individuals with their own fundraising ideas.

"For every £1 we're given, 92p goes straight into local patient care, so we're putting the money straight back into the community.

"Two thirds of our funding comes from fundraising, so whatever people can contribute to help us, every single penny makes a difference."

Their next event, a sponsored Santa suit day, takes place on December 23rd. You can register to take part by emailing appeals@severnhospice.org.uk or calling (01743) 354450.

Find out more about the work of the Hospice on Twitter at @SevernHospice.