DigitalNow: Association Leadership in the Digital Age

Afternoon Keynote: Kathy Bushkin
How can an organization operate online to deliver services?

Key Points

• 70-74% of American responded in some manner to 9/11 by donating time, money or blood.
• Average gift was $134.00.
• Average number of hours donated was 17.
• 73% of givers say they will continue to give.
• 50% say giving will slow or decrease because of economy.
• 5% of all giving now happens online vs. 1% prior to 9/11.
• $100 million online contributions total.
• Amazing tool to pay attention to.
• Internet changing the way we look at everything we do.
• Relevant, transparent - also offers opportunities and challenges.
• Who is potential audience…women. They use it for time management rather than a toy.
• Online donations are real - here to stay.
• Online donations are exploding. AOL thinks that online volunteerism might be next.
• People give online when something spurs them-natural disaster, media coverage, TV specials involving certain subject.
• Internet is a tool - it has become part of our lives. It is all about community. It is very important to engage members. People join online communities in large numbers and move from community to community.
• Associations now are taking new roles. Must fill the void. Government had been providing in monetary assistance.
• Challenge to measure our philanthropy and how to allow our audience to learn about it without sounding crass.
• 21st Century Foundations now are:
  • Thinking globally
  • High tolerance for risk
  • Inclusive Culture
  • Fast/flexible
  • Commitment to communities
  • Responsibility in Policy development
  • "Co-operation" - partners and competitors
  • Transparancy
  • Passion
• Personalization will really be critical to online giving - use passion to keep the audience involved.
• Need to educate donors - let them know how much of the dollars are going to administrative costs. (Many are concerned about this.)
• Young people will really change the adoption of technology. Another 5 years from now they will be demanding technology integration with everyday personal and business life.
• Partnering is key.
• Have fun with internet and interaction with each other.
• Help members, donors and citizens become more educated…don't take a "hands off" approach-get involved!
• What is the nature of giving online? Average donation is higher.
• Younger demographics online then offline.