How it began?
#GivingTuesday began in 2011 at the 92nd Street Y. It occurs on Tuesday, November 29 of each year. This day is celebrated around the values of giving back and is used to bring people together. It has become an event of global proportions ever since.
Similarly, #GivingZOODy is a unique #GivingTuesday campaign that seeks to align donors with the cause of habitat preservation, safety, and care for animals found in aquariums and zoos across the United States.
#GivingZOODy is used by fundraisers and people who care for animals to come together and create campaigns around the #GivingTuesday giving mood.
How to participate in the #GivingZOOdy campaign if you are part of the zoo and aquarium community?
You should talk to your staff and supporters and then try to find out what are the most important needs for your animals and facility. You need to take a short and long term view and see what the future opportunities are for your zoo or aquarium. Once you are done with the basic calculation of your needs, you need to set goals for yourself. What would you be using to build your campaign. You need to find out if you are trying to raise awareness for a specific cause that your organization is passionate about. It could also be that you are trying to increase your community or fan base.
You then need to make fundraising plans to achieve these goals, and you need to market your campaign accordingly. #GivingZOODy provides the perfect opportunity to build your campaign around your needs and promote yourself. It could act as a push to raise funds and spread your message.
Strategies to consider when creating your #GivingZOOdy campaign
After selecting the goal that your organization is passionate about, you need to select the communication channels that you will use to spread your message or promote your campaign. You need to decide on the medium you plan to build your campaign on. You should check to see if there may be any special events or projects that can be undertaken that can act as a marketing boost for your campaign. You need to form a special connection with your donors by reaching out to people who have a similar passion for animal issues. There just has to be a good marketing strategy to get your message across. As to why donors should select you over others. And then you need to figure out if you can extend the #GivingZOOdy beyond one day.
#GivingZOODay has been a great opportunity for zoos/aquariums and animal lovers in general to use the #GivingTuesday platform for their cause and use a single day of giving for something else: fundraising and community building. It’s that time of year when you need to highlight your efforts throughout the year and remind your communities of the work done thanks to your support. Right around the time of year when fundraisers are trying to get the most out of generous donations from the end-of-year fundraiser, it’s the perfect opportunity for you to gain momentum and raise your voice for your cause.