Can Nonprofit Technology Improve Equity and Access? – Yearly
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Any nonprofit organization’s sole mission is to benefit societal welfare. Usually, nonprofits have specific goals in mind (environmental, social, etc.). But, it’s important that every nonprofit, no matter its mission, engages in other forms of social good. One way to accomplish this is to invest in nonprofit technology.
One important, topical trend that nonprofits should devote time to is equity and access. Internally, organizations should commit to prioritizing these efforts with their staff. But, it’s also equally important to recognize their importance in the communities they serve and the stakeholders they rely on.
What are equity and access?
Equity and access refer to the fair, and equal ability to locate and interact with certain information. For nonprofits, equity and access mean that all supporters and constituents—no matter their geographic location, income, etc.— are able to receive important materials, benefits, and more, from nonprofits. This ensures that no one is barred from participating in the nonprofit’s work. And, it allows everyone to have an equal chance to engage with the organization.
How can nonprofit technology improve equity and access?
Technology isn’t a “cure-all” for issues with equity and access. But when used effectively, it can help nonprofits make significant improvements in their practices.
Nonprofit technology and software that’s geared towards nonprofits can bring in new audiences and help to reach new communities in need. All of which can help nonprofits build a robust network of constituents.
How nonprofit technology improves equity and access for volunteers
When it comes to bolstering volunteerism—both finding new supporters and retaining others—nonprofit technology can be a fundamental key to success.
Technology traverse geography
Many volunteers don’t have the means or ability to travel to in-person events or fundraisers.
Transportation, and the cost of that transportation, varies widely from community to community. Because of this, it’s often hard for nonprofits to reach new potential supporters.
By taking advantage of virtual events and interactive campaigns, volunteers can feel a part of the organization—even if they’re far.
Technology allows for a diversification of volunteer opportunities
Not every volunteer has the ability to carry chairs and tables or even verbally greet donors and stakeholders. With technology, volunteers can give back in ways that work for them.
With technology, volunteers can run Zoom meetings or virtual events. Or, they can even helping create a digital annual reports. Technology provides diverse opportunities for engagement, drawing in diverse audiences.
Technology enhances access to crucial info
One of the most important facets of equity and access is the ability to receive crucial information. Volunteers and supporters should have access to onboarding materials, impact reports, and more. Any pertinent materials surrounding your nonprofit’s work should be accessible.
When it comes to information access, digital report software can help nonprofits distill and disseminate important information. With mobile-friendly reporting, supporters can access data via email, social media, and more. In doing so, nonprofits ensure that each of their volunteers feels “in the loop.”
How nonprofit technology improves equity and access for donors
Nonprofits are often missing out on huge populations of people that are interested in giving back. But, with the right solutions, they can expand their reach.
Technology expands the opportunities to contribute
Mobile-friendly (and donation-friendly) software allows supporters to contribute in more ways than one. Instead of only receiving checks, online forms of donating like Venmo and PayPal allow supporters to contribute from anywhere, at any time.
When nonprofits expand their donation capabilities, they provide both greater equity and access.
Technology engages a younger crowd
One of the fastest growing bases of donors are millennials and Gen-Z. Though it’s probably unsurprising to most, the best way to engage these younger generations is through digital engagement.
By going digital, nonprofits increase the likelihood of attracting young, eager supporters. Supporters who are already on their phones and plugged in online.
How nonprofit technology improves equity and access for beneficiaries
When nonprofits expand their digital footprint, they can reach more people in need. From maximizing online video content to interactive reports, nonprofits can reach a more diverse group of beneficiaries.
Technology allows nonprofits to reach underrepresented communities
For beneficiaries, tech can be invaluable. By embracing tech-first solutions, beneficiaries can more easily access critical information online. From application materials to crucial resources, embracing technology is an effective way to ensure that your communities have equal access to crucial information.
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