I heard recently that the millennial generation is believed to be one of the most self-absorbed, consumer-minded generations in history. Wow, that belief could completely deter a nonprofit from trying to engage us. Organizations with seemingly “unsexy” causes would tend to think they could never make us care. But, what has struck me is that rarely is a cause completely irrelevant to entire group of people, no matter what it is.
So here are a few things that bug me, as an elusive member of the millennial generation:
Don’t assume “people my age” aren’t interested or that “people older than me” are more interested: Our interest level more likely reflects your ability to tailor your message.
Don’t assume we won’t ever care: Compel us! Is your message presented in a way that would stop someone in their tracks? I recently clicked through this slideshow for LOVE146 and could not get it out of my head for days. Days! I then passed it on to a group of high school girls I mentor, and we brainstormed about how to help get the word out about human trafficking online and in their schools. (Btw, I’ll share more on our ideas for LOVE146 soon)
If we’re not giving, volunteering, or promoting your cause, don’t assume we don’t already care about something else: For instance, I’m currently involved with (financially supporting, volunteering, or promoting) 5 different nonprofits. Don’t take my lack of interest personally, and don’t let a rejection from one young person get you down. There are many of us!
More to come with Part 2.
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