Social Good

You’ve dreaded it for the last three months. From day one you knew it was going to happen. You’ve tried your best but you just couldn’t do a damn thing about it. It’s going to come up from behind and blindside you like a devastating right hook from 5 division champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. – and it’s going to hurt. Every day is going to be a bit harder, longer and more dreadful…

Winter. It’s coming and it’s here to stay. Well, for a few months at least.

On the plus side with winter comes the Holiday Season. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other celebration, we can all agree it’s a fun time of the year. And if you don’t, well there is always New Years Eve. A time to start the year over, make changes, set new goals…and wake up in strange, random places that you don’t ever remember being at the night before. At least that only happens once a year. Okay, maybe twice.

It’s also a good time to start thinking about giving back. Toronto is an awesome city with endless wealth and great opportunity. But it isn’t without its need. From sick kids to environmental cleanups, whatever your interest, there is an area that needs help.

Yesterday’s presentation on the history of Dashboard is what got me thinking on the topic. Dashboard has been dedicated to helping charities and organizations for years and has had a profound impact on the community, particularly with the Santa Claus Parade. I’m proud to work for an company that values these types of things. But as a new employee and as a Social Media Strategist, how can use my knowledge in contributing back? Here’s what I’ve got:

Social Good is emerging from like-minded people combining the fields of social media and charity. It connects people with organizations of all kinds with the common goal of helping each other out. Some quick examples:

Jumo- Founded by Facebook co-founder, Chris Hughes, Jumo connects people to helpful organizations. Type in your city and Jumo will provide you with a list of organizations that need your help. The site is currently under construction as the company has just merged with GOOHYPERLINK – a media platform for people who want to do good.

Volunteer Toronto – A local organization with the goal of networking Toronto volunteers with areas in need. ‘Like’ their Facebook page and follow them on twitter for current opportunities where you can help.

Feeling a bit more audacious? Here is a great article from Mashable on: How to Implement a Social Good Campaign on Facebook.

I can’t remember the last time I donated some time to someone in need. It was probably back in high school when I was forced to with threats of not graduating.

At this point in my life I am out of excuses. Patio season is a long ways away. This year is going to be a bit different. This season I’m going to take the Dashboard approach and challenge myself to give back.

Wanna help?