Have you ever tried to create an online appeal (e.g., email or video) so it goes viral? If yes, the odds are that it didn’t happen.
Rarely can we force or manipulate an appeal to become viral. It’s just something that happens naturally within the market. It’s the right message . . . right time . . . right place . . . and the right tools to help it spread.
In this case the right message was a child’s sincerity. Charlie Simpson lives in London. He used the JustGiving website to announce his fundraising event for UNICEF and the Haiti earthquake victims.
What was his event? Riding his bicycle around and around the park.
I’d say Charlie is also an example of a Super Volunteer, even though he and his parents never dreamed so much money would be raised. He’s an “accidental” but welcome super volunteer.
Here’s Charlie’s original message on JustGiving:
A note from Charlie:
My name is Charlie Simpson, I want to do a Sponsored Bike Ride for Haiti because there was a big earthquake and loads of people have lost their lives. I want to make some money to buy food, water and tents for everyone in Haiti.
I am going to cycle around South Park as many times as possible…. (at least 10 laps, I hope!). Please can you sponsor me and all your money will go to UNICEF who are collecting for Haiti.
THANK YOU VERY, VERY MUCH!
Charlie.
It’s a neat story and I encourage you to read more.
It began by UNICEF successfully sharing its message to the community; how they were helping but needed donations to continue; specific information on what was being done and how donors’ money would be used.
Write compelling copy with information donors want. Do this and you may enjoy the help of a super volunteer – your own Charlie Simpson – and an exciting viral grassroots fundraising campaign for your wonderful charity.
