Charity Talk: 4 Takeaways From Movember
2003: 30 “Mo Bros” ban together to collectively accept a challenge—Bring back the mustache.
2014: 4,74,905 “Mo Bros” raise $649 million dollars in just over a decade, and The Movember foundation ranked 72 out of top 500 world-wide NGOs (non-governmental organizations).
The grassroots beginnings of Movember evolved, nearly overnight, into a global community of individuals seeking to participate in a movement for good.
By growing a mustache for 30 days, men across the globe can help raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and general men’s health issues.
Here are some tidbits you can use to get your own charity more awareness and donations, heard straight from the horse’s…mustache.
Include Everyone
Because Movember is all about growing facial hair for good, most would instantly assume women can’t participate. But behold…the “Mo Sista!” “Mo Sistas” are women who are interested in fundraising for the men in their lives. Get creative in seeking ways to make backing your cause simple and fun for everyone.
Gamify It
By simply creating a series of leaderboards (individual, team, network, etc.) Movember turns raising funds into a good ol’ competition. People like to be recognized for their good deeds—even Flo, The Progressive Girl, apparently. They also incentivize fundraisers with appropriate prizes, like fancy razors, hipster sunglasses and a trip for two to the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. Create a gamified app or website, and offer desirable prizes to keep people interested.
Bring on the Laughs
It’s speculated that Movember never would have taken off like it did without the humor behind it. Let’s face it: Mustaches are hilarious. From handlebars to toothbrushes to Fu Manchus, mustaches are playful and make people laugh (added bonus: they also sometimes get the ladies!). Bring some humor to your cause and never underestimate the power of brightening someone’s day. The support you’ll get in return will be worth it.
Make Your Purpose Clear
Whether or not they know exactly what Movember is, the name has recognition. The people behind Movember know this fact, and that’s why they’ve created a super functional, easy to navigate website. On their website searchers can clearly find their mission, values, funding strategy, cause, leadership, news and events. Outside of their website, Movember uses social networks to further disseminate their message. Whether on your website or social networks, you must clearly define what your charity does, who you are and how people can get involved. Keep transparency high, and you’re sure to succeed. Find social networks that best serve your cause and run with them. For example, GetAssist is a new social platform dedicated to giving you more network from your social network. It is an app especially useful to charities, and other people who want to make purposeful connections online.
To sign up for Movember 2015, click here. To sign up for GetAssist to start making a difference within your own charity, click here.
