Making Time for Reality TV, Work and Giving
It is perhaps inevitable that older generations feel that the younger ones are letting time and talent go to waste. In the age of reality TV and multiple jobs, that criticism might seem valid for the current generation, but, Millennials, those in their 20's and 30's, seem determined to prove they are different.
According to a new study , 75 percent of young people donated money to support causes last year and 63 percent volunteered.
The survey, the 2012 Millennial Impact Report by Achieve and Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates, polled 6, 522 people between the ages of 20 and 35 via online surveys, focus groups, and a nonprofit professionals survey. Of those surveyed, 93 percent had at least a bachelor's degree and only 18 percent had children. The results show that, for Millennials, connecting to an organization means they are likely to get involved and give of their time and resources.
While they can be generous with their time, Millennials are not giving thoughtlessly. Most of them donated less than $100 to individual organizations. And, although some have accused this generation of "slacktivism" (clicking and texting rather than actually engaging), the study found that most Millennials use social media tools and organizations' website to learn about non-profits, seek volunteer opportunities and give .
Most young people look for a range volunteer opportunities that take advantage of their talents and individual strengths. Across the country, the proliferation of hands-on "days of action" has allowed them to become engaged in local and community events. Young people also want to become leaders in how and when volunteer and giving opportunities arise. Once engaged, young people usually enlist the help of friends and relatives and with the use of social media like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and other sites can recruit like-minded individuals. They also fundraise and remain involved.
Another draw for Millennials is the ability to use their expertise and backgrounds to "help lead nonprofits." As the study notes, "Millennials want to make it clear that they should not be taken for granted, and can play an important leadership role, even if they can’t commit a lot financially right now."
Vote to help Toyota give 100 cars over 100 days to nonprofit organizations. Each click is a good deed that can make a big difference.
Image: HandsOn screenshot
Follow Technorati