Episode 47: Millennial Voices: Advocates and Activists Over Donors and Volunteers

We hear this group discussed a lot in the social good community: Millennials. More specifically, the importance of digital technology for understanding how Millennials, the first generation of people who grew up with digital technology, use the internet when it comes to social issues and charitable works and giving and how to properly engage with this group to convert their interests into action. 

Today’s guest, Derrick Feldman, is the founder and producer of MCON, the nation’s premiere conference on Millennials. In this episode, Derrick shares his unique thoughts about Millennials, how they’re really impacting the current and future states of philanthropy and what fundraisers need to start and stop doing going forward to engage Millennials. 

Topics Discussed in This Episode: 

• Why Derrick chose to focus on Millennials
• Various ways that Millennials support issues, beyond just financial giving
• How to communicate to Millennials that their actions are having an impact
• What you can find in The Millennial Impact Report
• The importance of a holistic approach to raising engagement
• How minimal actions, like signing a petition, can lead to larger actions, like donating and volunteering
• Why Millennials act for social change even if they don’t necessarily identify with the label of “activist”
• How Millennials feel about America’s future
• Why Millennials are participating in causes through actions like rallies, marches, and contacting legislators
• What fundraisers need to do going forward to engage Millennials, and what fundraisers should avoid doing 

Resources: 

Derrick Feldman

MCON

The Millennial Impact Report

Blackbaud

Blackbaud - Twitter

Blackbaud - Facebook 

 

“When you see some of the most successful organizations that have raised dollars, they have looked at it through the lens of the supporter constituency model.” 

“The population needs to see the next milestone to reach that bold statement.” 

“At the end of the day we continue to notice that the Millennial individual is focused on ensuring that that person, that human being isn’t challenged, that they have opportunities, and that they have the rights that are afforded to them.”