SocialButterfly
The One Post I Hope You Read
Monday, June 7th, 2010 | SocialButterfly | 4 Comments
Three Generations + the Opportunity of a Lifetime
My Mom and Grandmother
Who inspires you? For me, it’s the heart of service that my family has lived for and stood for that inspires me everyday. This is why, I am so thankful, humbled and hopeful that later this month, my mom, my grandma and I are joining a group of good-hearted and high-spirited individuals on a service trip to Guatemala through the organization the Amistad Foundation.
On our trip, we will visit Guatemala City, La Limonada (see picture below) and some of Guatemala’s villages. We will be working with the Guatemalan people to help them develop skills to grow and develop sustainable businesses and relationships. From helping their crop program to teaching them business skills, basic communication and motor skills, as well as administering eye exams and mainly–sharing love and support.
The Guatemalan Situation
La Limonada--The Largest Slum in Central America
Guatemala has recently been served a triple blow: 1) The Pacaya Volcano erupted spewing lava, rocks and debris just south of Guatemala city; 2) This past Sunday, a sinkhole in the middle of Guatemala City swallowed a whole three-story building; and 3) Tropical storm Agathe hit parts of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras causing 150,000 people to evacuate due to heavy flooding and landslides. Adding to the situation, the United Nations recently reported that:
- An estimated 43% of Guatemalan children below the age of five suffer from chronic malnutrition, one of the worst rates in the world.
- Guatemala has been hit by one of the worst droughts in 30 years, causing their worst famine in 30 years with 2.7 million people requiring urgent aid.
#loveroofs: 7 Roofs, 7 Families, 7 Days
Where do you turn during the rainy seasons in your life? For me, it’s home–it’s family. There are families, in one of the villages (vagueness is for security reasons) we are visiting that don’t have a safe place to go when the torrential rain comes. We want to help provide them a safe home by providing them roofs over their shelter–what I call #loveroofs for they will be funded and built with love to support the growth of love. The cost to do this is about $157 per home. Our goal is to raise $1,100 to provide seven roofs to seven families within seven days!
While there, I will be able to capture photos of the people in the village and help us all connect and enjoy in this journey together. Upon my return, I will share the pictures and insights with you so you know your money went to a good cause.
How You Can Help
Can you help us raise $1,100? I’ve been looking into ways to go about this so that we can all see the progress while being transparent at the same time–and I discovered CrowdRise. I’m a first timer, but I hear good things about the platform and will be able to report to you about how it all goes. All funds donated will be donated to the Amistad Foundation who will work with their contacts on the ground in Guatemala to make this happen (and I’ll provide images and updates as well). THANK YOU
DONATE:
Go to http://www.crowdrise.com/loveroofs, and give what you can. Our goal is to raise $1,100 to provide seven roofs to seven families within seven days!
Trust me when I say that both my family and myself understand the economic times–for us, this is truly a trip based in love and faith, so know that I understand if you can’t give–but we’ll take encouragement too. I plan on sharing this post with all those on the trip–so please leave a note of encouragement below. =)
Defining SocialButterfly–Social Change, Social Marketing and Social Media
Thursday, August 13th, 2009 | Changeblogging: NP, activism, social change +, Social Marketing, SocialButterfly | 3 Comments
At SB, I’ve noticed a spike in new visitors this summer who might be wondering, “What is SocialButterfly all about?” Well, I’ve been evaluating that myself, and encouraged by a few colleagues of mine, I believe it’s time for an update. As we go forward, you’ll see me working to align my work, content and chatter around this working vision: Make SocialButterfly a resource for information and dialogue on social change, social marketing and social media.
In my first post on SB, I explained that:
Defined–a social butterfly is someone who is amazing at socializing, making connections and creating conversation…appearing to ‘fly’ about the room. In the context of this Web site, it is a play on words.
‘Social‘ is taking from the term social marketing, in which marketing efforts are applied to create and influence behavior changes that are beneficial to society. In other words, depending on one’s view, it is learning to examine social issues and look for ways to ignite social change for the better.
‘Butterfly‘ is taken from the butterfly insect, which goes through a metamorphosis, and changes into a beautiful creation. Thus, this site works to promote and increase understanding surrounding the practice of social marketing by inspiring any and all to create change for the better. Then, in a ripple effect, maybe we could all become SocialButterflies in creating social change for the betterment of society.
As the header alludes, social change, social marketing and social media is a metamorphosis and we all play a role in spreading the good. It’s an evolution of an ongoing revolution. We can all be SocialButterflies. Let me elaborate:
Social Change–In the online space, and as our world becomes a smaller place, boundaries continue to become blurred. More public-private partnerships are evolving. Government agencies are reaching out to non-profits. Private sector is getting energized by government. And, this is good. Social change for social good takes a village. I was recently inspired by the discovery of Booz Allen’s “MegaComunities” concept. It mirrors a similiar message that I detailed in my graduate research–emphasizing the collaboration across fields, industries and sectors. Social change umbrellas work of non-profits, journalism, activism, advocacy, health, environmentalism, social justice, human rights, public policy, lobbying, and more–for the improvement in the quality of life.
Social Marketing–Again, social marketing, on SB, does not mean social media. It means influencing behavior change for social good. Founded by marketing guru Philip Kotler and Nancy Lee, it’s the “science” behind behavior change for social good–aka social change. See the connection? Social change is the WHAT or the GOAL, social marketing is the theoretical STRATEGY or FRAMEWORK.
Social Media–Social media encompasses a variety of TACTICS and/or TOOLS. Social media marketing is best when it’s an integrated approach that complements current outreach and communication efforts, when it works to solve a problem, and is about what it enables, empowers and builds–more so than tools or information. SB looks at social media for a few reasons 1) It’s evolving itself as new tools and best practices continue to emerge on almost a daily basis; 2) Because of its fast growth and continual change, it demands savvy practitioners; 3) Because of reason #2, an active commitment to learn and engage is required, not just for me, but for all of us colleagues; and 4) It has the potential to completely change the game for social change and behavior–and in many ways, it already has–making it critical to know, understand and grasp.
But I can’t accomplish this alone. It’s going to take an active-living-breathing-charged-committed-encouraged-motivated-and-dedicated swarm of socialbutterflies to move the needle. What are your thoughts? How do you think we’re doing?
flickr credit: ~flutterby~’s
Do you consider yourself an activist?
Monday, May 25th, 2009 | Changeblogging: NP, activism, social change +, SocialButterfly | 4 Comments
There are certain people you get really excited about meeting. One of those people for me was Geoff Livingston. A couple of weeks ago, I finally got the chance to meet him in person. During our conversation, he referenced me as an activist.
This was another first for me. I know Geoff said it with love, but no one has ever called me that, and I found myself pondering: Do I consider myself an activist? So, I let it marinate. And I came to three conclusions:
1. I do consider myself an activist. But then comes the question, what am I advocating for? I feel the answer to this question will continue to morph, evolve, and develop with time. For the longest time and presently, I am an advocate for a cure to multiple sclerosis. I’m also an advocate for my family, for human rights, for literacy and for social good. It may be cliche, but the quote, “Stand for something, otherwise you stand for nothing.”
Well, when my name is called, I want to feel confident about where I’m standing and why. This blog helps document my approach to activism as it’s deeply rooted in the belief I have in the process of social marketing and behavior change.
2. Being considered an activist is a good thing. I consider it a badge of honor. I know the word “activist” itself carries with it many ideas and immediate connotations from a variety of people, which is all great and dandy. However, what I realized was more important, was what it meant to me. I started thinking of others that I would deem “activists.” Maybe I’m just a little too on the optimistic side, but I first thought of those like Susan B. Anthony, Martin Lurther King Jr., Nelson Mandella, and my family.
You see, I feel like I come from a lineage of activists so to speak. One, my grandfather of about five generations ago was a Cherokee Indian Chief. Another super great uncle was an abolitionist with John Brown and was actually hung with him as documented in the book Man on Fire. Though I know that one is a bit extreme, there was my great-grandpa Russel who was a teacher…A teacher who lost his job because he didn’t believe in the segregation of his classroom. To carry on the torch and encourage others to join, well, to me, that’s a good thing.
3. This, inherently, implies action. The word itself carries the word “act” in it. Are there “activists” that you don’t agree with? Yes. Are there activists with bad intentions? Yes. Are there activites who use approaches you don’t agree with? Yes. But, then, if that’s the case, act on it. =) Being an activist is what you make of it.
Find your voice. Channel your purpose….and I think you’ll find that you will want to ACT on whatever you feel called or led to do more than ever. Are you with me?
(*I hesitated writing this post, because I thought the word “activist” might lend itself to be controversial. But then I thought, hey, SB readers are pretty smart folks. They’ll have some good insights to stretch me even further on this. I’m counting on it. In the meantime, thanks Geoff for the compliment!)
flickr credit: RockChalk Jayhawk, John Rover
The Social Marketing Blogosphere Continues to Expand: Welcome Mike Newton-Ward
Wednesday, September 24th, 2008 | Blog Talk, Blogging and the Blogosphere, Education and Resources, Social Marketing, Social Media, SocialButterfly | 2 Comments
I am excited to announce the addition of a great social marketing voice to the blogosphere, Mike Newton-Ward at Social Marketing Panorama, where he hopes to offer a 360-view of social marketing.
My first encounter with Mike was when he graciously helped me with my graduate project this past Spring. Though we’ve only ‘met’ through phone, email and now blogging, he is a very knowledge, helpful and passionate voice for the social marketing field.
Mike outlines a few reasons why he entered the blogosphere:
- Exchange ideas about social marketing
- Extend the discussions from Georgetown’s social marketing list serv
- Create community
- Share resources, as well as his personal observations in the field
Mike’s addition to the blogosphere is a special treat for all of us as he invites us to:
“to observe the world around you, listen to what people are saying, reflect on your experiences, and share them.”
Social marketing’s presence in the blogosphere continues to expand and gain traction. Join the metamorphosis. Come fly with us in this growing movement called social marketing.
- Spare Change, Nedra Weinreich
- On Social Marketing and Social Change, Craig Lefebvre (**Did you check out Lefebvre’s recent post about medical and health bloggers? I suggest you check it out for a link to the free research report!)
- Subject to Change, Vanessa Mason
- Health Marketing Musings, Jay Bernhardt
- Social Marketing Panorama, Mike Newton-Ward
- SocialButterfly, Yours Truly
For more social marketing-related blogs, my links page offers many more resources and listings!
Liked what you read? Feel free to share with others: 
Britt Bravo and SocialButterfly Unite Changeblogger Community
Wednesday, July 9th, 2008 | General Events and Happenings | 2 Comments
In late May, Britt Bravo at Have Fun * Do Good recruited her readers to create a list of Changebloggers – members of the blogging community who:
“…use their blog, podcast or vlog to raise awareness, build community, and/or facilitate readers, listeners, and viewers taking action to make the world better.”
On her blog, Britt developed a working list of 40+ Changebloggers, events and other online lists. Then a facebook group was created. Now, we are organizing our list further. I have created a Changeblogger Wiki that is being used to gather blogs and their author’s names, Twitter contact names, locations, create a shared list of Changeblogger meetups and events while also being a live idea-swapping forum.
The first idea pitched is develop a changeblogger logo. Thus, we are launching a Changeblogger logo contest! Check out the wiki for more details.
Currently, Britt is planning a Changeblogger meetup to correspond with the BlogHer conference in San Fransisco. At that conference, Britt is facilitating the Birds of a Feather session for Green, Social Change & NPO/NGO bloggers, Friday, July 18th from 10:30-11:45 AM. And, I plan to add a Changeblogger meetup to correspond with BlogHer’s Reach Out Tour in Washington D.C later this year in October.
So join the wiki and stay tuned for more ways to take online communications –> offline.
My 4th of July Surprise
Monday, July 7th, 2008 | Blog Talk, SocialButterfly | 12 Comments
I apologize for being very MIA the past few days…it’s not like me. But, I had one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments happen over the holiday weekend:
I GOT ENGAGED!
Yes, this bog is about social marketing. Yes, it’s also about social media. But, for this small 300-word post, I’m going to share a BIG slice of my life with you. My favorite holiday is the 4th of July, and I just moved to Washington D.C. in January. My parents are my best friends and my boyfriend (now fiance) is the love of my life.
Thus, the rents planned a 4th of July trip to D.C. for their first-ever visit to where I now call home. Little did I know that my now-fiance was plotting the whole time to pop the big question. A dinner cruise, a fancy red dress, the song ‘Lady in Red,’ (played by Dennis the piano player who learned the song just for this occassion), dancing and fireworks later….I was engaged. and it was all a surprise.
Life. Is. Great. =)
An Afternoon Conversation Calls Me Back
Tuesday, July 1st, 2008 | Blog Talk, Case Studies and New Orgs/Campaigns, Social Marketing, SocialButterfly | 3 Comments
I’m starting another series. Apparently, I like series. But I think readers do to, because it helps you know what kind of content to predict. Or, so Seth Godin tells us.
Today, I was fortunate enough to connect with one of SocialButterfly’s consistent readers at the Ad Council. I want to thank him through this blog as the conversation inspired me to start this new series: Social Marketing Classic Campaigns.
A month now into my ‘official’ new full-time role at work, I have slightly gotten a bit side-tracked in my enthusiasm for social media, that the true ‘social marketing’ aspect of my blog has been lacking. Thus, to complement the Social Media Highlight series I have, I’m starting this new one.
This afternoon’s conversation reminded me of what I think would be a DREAM job –> having the ability to brand social marketing, to further the field, to expand its practices and applications, to share its tool belt with those across industries and across nations, and to inspire more SocialButterflies…so to speak. =) But this can’t be accomplished alone, and we all play our part.
Thus, stay tuned as every other week I am going to showcase a classic social marketing campaign, and highlight movements in the field. Through this, I hope to elaborate on social marketing’s theory using real-world examples. As, I also realized this afternoon, that I’ve been focusing a lot on the promotional efforts of social marketing, which is a trend of the field and not just myself. Thus, I hope to highlight some really great campaigns.
It might be a small step towards the dream, but small steps can end up coving a large distance! If you have some ideas on some you’d like to see featured, feel free to post a note. Until then, social marketers unite!
Debate Continues: Does anonymity hurt social media success?
Saturday, May 31st, 2008 | Interesting Articles | No Comments
As mentioned in my previous post, I read an interesting article by Dan Tynan titled: For Change, Use a Wiki. This particular article grabbed my attention not because of its discussion about wikis, but because of two other main points Tynan makes:
- Collaborative web sites are becoming tools for social change…driving collective work into collective action.
- The other reason this article grabbed my attention was because it brought up the issue of anonymity when dealing with collective action and social change by asking the question:
Does anonymity injure a social media initiative’s success?
Tynan not only talks about wikis potential good for social change, but also warns that this collective action can too easily mean collective anonymity.
With collective anonymity, it is harder to identify who is doing what and why. It is like an added shield of protection in someways in that with anonymity, accountability is lacking. This is especially dangerous when it comes to collective think.
Now, you’re probably thinking, “Miss SocialButterfly, you are anonymous.” I am already ahead of you. I am open to disclosing who I am. If someone contacts me or asks me, and there is professional relationship-building occurring, then I will openly share who I am, what I am doing and why. Plus, I am an individual.
Thus, onto this question at hand. The article continues acknowledging that there will always be ill-intentioned individuals and groups out in existence and is optimistic that the good, the changebloggers and agents for good, will outnumber the bad.
Tynan gave two credentials for how to separate the pack for well-intentioned and ill-intentioned motives. The good will not be anonymous because A) They care about their online reputations and B) Want to collaborate for social change.
In conclusion, Tynan quotes quotes Andrew Hopping, Community Liaison for NASA’s CoLab wiki who shared:
“As with any technology, there are benevolent uses and malevolent ones. In any community I’m part of there’s little patience for people who want to stay anonymous. Our goal is to create a vibrant, transparent, and effective federal agency. To cause any form of social change, it starts with and ends with people you trust. Anonymity doesn’t lend itself to that at all.”
Where do you stand? Can social change be accomplished despite anonymity?
Quick FYI
Sunday, May 11th, 2008 | SocialButterfly | No Comments
For those I haven’t responded to as of late, no worries. SocialButterfly is still still alive and fluttering about!
However, for now, I am vacationing and graduating from grad school and will be unable to post until Monday the 18th.
After a busy time this semester…
- Living in Washington DC
- Working Full-Time in Washington DC
- Commuting 2 hours a day
- Conducting my thesis research
- Writing a Thesis
- Job Searching and…
- making the official decision to move permanently to the DC area…
- ALL IN FOUR MONTHS!
I need a much-needed vacation. =) So, I am traveling to California for the first time and exploring the coastline in our rented convertible, taking in the fresh breeze…before I jump back into the full swing of the real world.
Thanks for staying posted and for all your inquiries. Upon my return, I hope to make SocialButterfly even better than ever…hope you stay posted to continue flying with all of us fellow social marketers!
Best,
SocialButterfly
Is Everything Going 2.0?
Wednesday, May 7th, 2008 | Blog Talk, Web 2.0 Wednesdays | 2 Comments
Is everything going 2.0?
Health, Science, Museum, Birding, Philanthropy, Reputation, Enterprise, Food and more! Feel free to add to the list.
**********************
- Museum 2.0 is a blog itself by Nina Simon that talks about how Web 2.0 can be applied in museum design. Nina paints her vision for the revitlization for museums and future possibilities here, and in her video.
- Health 2.0: SocialButterfly’s own post sparked by recently released research studies, regarding the developments in the growing Health 2.0 field, offering numerous examples and resources.
- Science 2.0: SocialButterfly’s own post on Science 2.0, including a mini-case study on the OpenWetWare project, voicing both concerns and future possibilities.
- Birding 2.0: Michelle Riggen-Ransom as Social Media for Social Change wrote a great piece on Birding 2.0, about how Science 2.0 and technological developments are advancing great hobbies such as bird watching in the bird watching community.
- Phianthropy 2.0: New Voices on Philanthropy shares a quick observation while live blogging at a Philanthropy 2.0 event sponsored by the Case Foundation, EPIP and 3rd Wave.
- Reputation 2.0: Jeff McCord looks at the importance of one’s online reputation when entering the trenches of the job search in his post titled, Reputation 2.0.
- Enterprise 2.0: Business Technology Leadership looked at Enterprise 2.0 – What Good is it? the other day by offering a 12-step guide on how to get the most out of web 2.0 tools.
- Food 2.0: The LA Times posted an online book review on Charlie Ayers’ book Food 2.0, Secrets From the Chef Who Fed Google.
***********************
Other topics I Googled with a ’2.0′ added that found results include Love 2.0, Crafts 2.0, Education 2.0, Music 2.0, Church 2.0 …What others can you find?
Alexandra Bornkessel
Email: abornkessel@fly4change.com
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