Charities are often under scrutiny when it comes to how they use their funding. It’s important for us to be transparent about where the money is going and how it’s being used to benefit the community. Also, grants often come with strict guidelines on how the money should be spent.
When taking pictures of the work volunteers were doing, to later publish to the community through our media outlets, a member of staff heard the remark “marketing, it’s all smoke and mirrors.” This person may have been generalising but, it’s important to clear this up for charities.
For us as a charity, we believe that marketing is a reflection of the work we are doing; and our commitment to making a difference in the lives of those we help.
The funding we receive from grants and donations, enable us to provide services to those who need them, initiate community projects, purchase equipment to implement those services, recruit volunteers and support community groups with governance. It’s all about being accountable for the resources we have and showing you, what we are doing.
Unfortunately, the reality is that many small charities have to rely on funding and resources to continue their work. They are often concerned about the impact of funding cuts on their ability to deliver services and the result of cuts means a reduction of services relied on or even closure.
Today, it is more important than ever for charities to speak up about the work they are doing and the impact they are making. We need to be proactive in showcasing the value of our efforts and the difference we are making in our communities.
So, what is your charity up to? Are you fulfilling your marketing needs and effectively communicating the impact of your work?
To our members, we know you do incredible work and we like to shout about you but are you sharing the positive News of another small charity you are affiliated to, to show unity? Show the world that it’s not just smoke and mirrors when we document what we do, but that charities are highlighting meaningful change.