This week we highlight the social activity backing up Comic Relief's Red Nose Day, Cancer Research UK's Mother's Day campaign and how a partnership between four children's charities is making the case for early intervention with an animated video.
Red Nose Day 2015: ‘Make your face funny for money’
It’s hard not to have noticed that Comic Relief’s biennial fundraising extravaganza is upon us, and in the build-up to tonight’s telethon, the charity has been active across social networks encouraging people to ‘make your face funny for money’.
After dressing up, people are encouraged to take a selfie, share it, and donate by text. Comic Relief is using a Facebook app to highlight some of its favourite selfies in a gallery.
The Red Nose Day Twitter handle is also sharing short videos of highlights of Dermot O’Leary’s attempt to dance for 24 hours. So far today, the comedian John Bishop has joined O’Leary for some hea- banging and Sir Terry Wogan has stopped by to do the Floral Dance.
Why we love it: it’s hard not to be impressed by the range of activity and amount of support that Comic Relief attracts for its Red Nose Day effort, but alongside its high-profile celebrity supporters the charity ensures that members of the public are made to feel valued for taking part.
Cancer Research UK: #MyMumAndMe
CRUK may not have invented the #nomakeupselfie, but it was quick to realise the fundraising benefits for the charity, and ahead of Mother’s Day on Sunday has adapted the technique with #MyMumAndMe.
It is asking people to post a photo of themselves with their mother on social media and send a text to donate £3 and spread the message.
The campaign has been supported by Atomic Kitten singer, Liz McClarnon, who said: “My mum means the world to me, so this March I’m supporting Cancer Research UK’s Mother’s Day campaign and pledging to spend more time with her in the year ahead. When my mum was diagnosed with cancer it was absolutely devastating, nothing can prepare you for that. That’s why I’m asking people to join me and support Cancer Research UK this Mother’s Day.”
Why we love it: what Mum wouldn’t be happy with a donation to charity and a bit of social media love on Mother’s Day? A perfect solution for people who have not sorted out a card.
Action for Children, Barnardo’s, Children’s Society and NSPCC: A stitch in time
Four children’s charities have teamed up to launch a new campaign urging politicians and the public to support early intervention measures.
They argue that supporting children early prevents problems from escalating and leading to more serious, and more costly, issues later on in life.
The Stitch in Time website includes an animated video, and an online form that people can use to tell election candidates about the campaign.
Why we love it: it’s always good to see charities collaborating on common issues and the Stitch in Time website has a slick, fresh feel. We were also impressed with how the video dominates the homepage rather than being tucked away.
