This week, I’ll be presenting to the New York City Bar Association Nonprofit Organizations Committee on engaging Millennials and Gen Z. This opportunity was prompted by my earlier post – Nonprofits: Engaging Millennials and Gen Z.
I have not previously used ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot generating a lot of attention and controversy these days, but have been curious about how it might respond to some of the issues we write about. I found it interesting that soliciting one response provided a list of 5-6 points that might not include some of those you considered most important. But if you request the chatbot to regenerate a response, new points will pop up.
The following are a series of questions with 2 responses for each. Not bad for a quick introduction to a subject area and a doublecheck to see if you may have omitted consideration of a factor that has been identified by others. But you’ll find my favorite use of ChatGPT at the end of this post.
Why should nonprofit engage Millennials and Gen Z?
Response 1:
Engaging millennials and generation Z is crucial for the long-term success of nonprofits. Here are some reasons why nonprofits should engage these younger generations:
- Future leaders: Millennials and generation Z are the future leaders of society. By engaging them now, nonprofits can create a pipeline of future leaders who are passionate about social issues and committed to making a difference.
- Social impact: Millennials and generation Z are passionate about social impact and making a difference in their communities. By engaging them, nonprofits can tap into their energy and enthusiasm and channel it towards their cause.
- Tech-savvy: Millennials and generation Z are digital natives and are comfortable with technology. They can help nonprofits stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends and find new ways to reach a wider audience.
- New perspectives: Millennials and generation Z bring new perspectives and fresh ideas to nonprofits. They can help organizations think outside the box and find innovative solutions to complex problems.
- Increased engagement: By engaging younger generations, nonprofits can increase their reach and engagement. Younger generations are active on social media and are more likely to share information about nonprofits and their causes with their peers.
- Donor potential: Millennials and generation Z are the next wave of donors. By engaging them now, nonprofits can build relationships and cultivate their support for the long term.
Overall, engaging millennials and generation Z is essential for the future of nonprofits. By tapping into their passion for social impact, technology, and innovation, nonprofits can build a strong foundation for the future and create a better world for all.
Response 2:
Nonprofits should engage millennials and generation Z for several reasons:
- Potential for long-term support: Millennials and generation Z are the future of philanthropy. By engaging with these younger generations, nonprofits can build long-term relationships and secure future support.
- Unique perspectives and skills: Millennials and generation Z bring unique perspectives and skills to the table. They have grown up in a digital age and are comfortable with technology, which can help nonprofits leverage digital platforms to engage with supporters and raise awareness.
- Passion for social causes: Millennials and generation Z are passionate about social causes and want to make a difference. By engaging with these younger generations, nonprofits can tap into their enthusiasm and energy to drive their mission forward.
- Diverse backgrounds and experiences: Millennials and generation Z are more diverse than previous generations. By engaging with these younger generations, nonprofits can ensure that their leadership and support reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
- Potential to attract new supporters: Engaging with millennials and generation Z can help nonprofits reach new audiences and attract new supporters. By using social media and other digital platforms to engage with younger generations, nonprofits can expand their reach and raise awareness of their mission.
Overall, engaging with millennials and generation Z is critical for the long-term success of nonprofits. By tapping into their unique perspectives, skills, and passion for social causes, nonprofits can build a more diverse and sustainable support base.
How should nonprofits engage Millennials and Generation Z?
Response 1:
Nonprofits can engage millennials and Generation Z by:
- Leveraging social media: Millennials and Gen Zers are avid users of social media platforms, so nonprofits should utilize social media to reach out to them. They can create engaging content, use influencers to spread their message, and run targeted campaigns on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
- Providing volunteering opportunities: Many millennials and Gen Zers are passionate about causes and want to make a difference. Nonprofits can offer volunteering opportunities that cater to their interests and schedules. They can also create social events to make volunteering a fun and social experience.
- Empowering them to be advocates: Nonprofits can give millennials and Gen Zers the tools and resources to be advocates for their cause. They can provide information, talking points, and training on how to communicate effectively with their peers and communities.
- Using gamification: Gamification can be a great way to engage millennials and Gen Zers. Nonprofits can create interactive challenges, quizzes, and contests that educate and raise awareness about their cause.
- Hosting events and meetups: Nonprofits can create events and meetups that cater to millennials and Gen Zers’ interests. They can organize conferences, concerts, and workshops that combine entertainment and education.
Overall, nonprofits should keep in mind that millennials and Gen Zers want to feel like they are making a difference and that their contributions are valued. By creating meaningful and engaging experiences, nonprofits can attract and retain the support of these younger generations.
Response 2:
Engaging millennials and generation Z requires a different approach than previous generations. Here are some strategies that nonprofits can use to effectively engage these younger generations:
- Use social media: Millennials and generation Z spend a significant amount of time on social media platforms. Nonprofits can use social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to engage with younger audiences and share their stories.
- Tell compelling stories: Millennials and generation Z are passionate about social issues, and they want to make a difference. Nonprofits should tell compelling stories that inspire these younger generations to take action and support their cause.
- Collaborate with influencers: Influencers are popular among millennials and generation Z. Nonprofits can collaborate with influencers to reach a wider audience and gain more support for their cause.
- Provide opportunities for involvement: Younger generations want to be involved in making a difference. Nonprofits can offer opportunities for younger people to volunteer, donate, or support their cause in other ways.
- Emphasize transparency: Millennials and generation Z value transparency and want to know how their support is making a difference. Nonprofits should be transparent about their operations, finances, and impact to build trust with younger audiences.
- Utilize technology: Millennials and generation Z are digital natives and are comfortable with technology. Nonprofits can use technology to create engaging campaigns, host virtual events, and make it easy for younger people to donate or support their cause online.
Overall, nonprofits should focus on building authentic relationships with younger generations and providing meaningful opportunities for involvement to engage them effectively.
How can nonprofits add Millennials and Gen Z as board members?
Response 1:
Adding millennials and generation Z to nonprofit boards can bring new perspectives and fresh ideas to the organization. Here are some strategies nonprofits can use to add younger board members:
- Identify potential candidates: Nonprofits can identify potential candidates through their existing networks or by reaching out to local universities or young professional organizations. It’s important to look for individuals who are passionate about the organization’s mission and have relevant skills and experience.
- Create a leadership pipeline: Nonprofits can create a leadership pipeline that prepares young professionals for board positions. This can include mentorship opportunities, training, and shadowing current board members.
- Be flexible with board roles: Nonprofits should consider offering different types of board roles, such as advisory positions or committee memberships, to attract younger members who may have less availability for regular board meetings.
- Emphasize diversity and inclusion: Nonprofits should prioritize diversity and inclusion when adding new board members. This includes diversity in age, gender, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background.
- Provide clear expectations and support: Nonprofits should provide clear expectations for board members and support them in their role. This can include orientation sessions, training, and ongoing communication.
- Offer meaningful experiences: Nonprofits should provide board members with meaningful experiences that allow them to make a difference and contribute to the organization’s mission. This can include opportunities to lead initiatives or work on strategic planning.
Overall, nonprofits should be intentional about adding millennials and generation Z to their boards and creating an environment that welcomes their contributions. By doing so, they can help ensure the long-term sustainability and success of the organization.
Response 2:
Adding millennials and generation Z as board members can bring new perspectives and fresh ideas to nonprofits. Here are some strategies nonprofits can use to add younger generations to their board of directors:
- Define board member expectations: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of board members, including time commitments, meeting attendance, and fundraising expectations. This can help attract younger generations who are interested in making a difference but may be hesitant about committing to a board position.
- Use social media and online platforms: Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter to advertise board positions to younger audiences. Post job descriptions on online job boards and networking sites to reach a wider audience.
- Partner with local universities: Partner with local universities to identify potential board members. Host information sessions or networking events to connect with students and recent graduates who are interested in making a difference.
- Create a young professionals board: Consider creating a separate board or committee for younger professionals. This can provide a way for younger generations to get involved and gain experience before joining the main board.
- Offer mentorship opportunities: Offer mentorship opportunities to younger professionals who are interested in joining the board. Pair them with current board members who can provide guidance and support.
- Emphasize diversity and inclusion: Millennials and generation Z value diversity and inclusion. Emphasize the importance of diversity on the board and actively recruit candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Overall, nonprofits should be proactive in reaching out to younger generations and creating opportunities for involvement. By emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion and providing mentorship and support, nonprofits can attract and retain younger board members who can help drive the organization forward.
Having Fun with ChatGPT
Why should nonprofit engage Millennials and Gen Z? Answer in the form of a rap.
Yo, yo, yo, listen up, I’ll lay it down,
Why non-profits should have millennials around.
Gen Z too, they’re both a force to reckon,
Don’t sleep on them, they’ll take your org to the next level, ain’t no question.
Millennials and Gen Z, they care about the world,
They want to make a difference, make it a better place to unfurl.
They’re socially conscious, and they’ve got the skills,
They can fundraise, they can market, they can work those social media mills.
They’re tech-savvy, they’re innovative,
They’ll bring new ideas, that’s demonstrative.
They’re diverse, they’re inclusive,
They’ll make your organization more representative, that’s conclusive.
They’re connected, they’re collaborative,
They’ll work with you, make it cooperative.
They’re purpose-driven, they’ll be dedicated,
They’ll volunteer their time, their energy unabated.
So listen up, non-profits, don’t you delay,
Get those millennials and Gen Z involved today.
They’ll bring fresh perspectives, they’ll bring a new zest,
Together, you’ll make a difference, you’ll be the best.
How should nonprofits engage Millennials and Generation Z? Answer in the form of Dr. Suess.
Oh, nonprofits, nonprofits, don’t you see,
The potential of Millennials and Gen Z?
To engage them, it’s simple, let me tell you how,
With Dr. Suess-style advice, I’ll show you now.
First, create a cause they can get behind,
Something they’re passionate about, it’ll be just fine.
Make it meaningful, make it fun,
And they’ll join your mission, one by one.
Next, use social media to reach them there,
With Instagram, TikTok, and all that’s out there.
Make it visual, make it shareable,
And they’ll spread the word, it’s undeniable.
Third, make it easy to get involved,
With clear instructions, they’ll be resolved.
Provide opportunities to volunteer,
And they’ll give their time, without any fear.
Fourth, give them a voice, let them lead,
And you’ll see their impact, indeed.
Empower them to make a difference,
And they’ll show their commitment, without any reluctance.
Lastly, be transparent, be authentic,
And they’ll trust you, that’s no trick.
Share your successes, share your struggles,
And they’ll be loyal, without any troubles.
So nonprofits, nonprofits, don’t you see,
The potential of Millennials and Gen Z?
Engage them with purpose, engage them with fun,
And they’ll join your mission, one by one.
How can nonprofits add Millennials and Gen Z as board members? Answer in the form of Shakespeare.
Oh nonprofits, nonprofits, lend me your ear,
For I shall impart some wisdom clear.
To add Millennials and Gen Z to your board,
Here are some suggestions, take them aboard.
First, seek not their age, but their character true,
For what matters most is what they can do.
Their passion, their drive, their vision bold,
Will help your nonprofit to have a stronghold.
Next, give them not just a seat, but a voice,
For their insights and perspectives, you should rejoice.
Listen to their opinions, hear what they say,
And they’ll bring value to your board each day.
Third, offer them a cause that they can espouse,
For their commitment and dedication, you’ll rouse.
A mission that aligns with their values and goals,
Will help them to champion your nonprofit’s roles.
Fourth, mentor them well, guide them aright,
For their potential is immense, a true sight.
Help them to develop, help them to thrive,
And your board will be blessed to have them arrive.
Lastly, let not their youth be a hindrance,
For their energy and vitality is not a circumstance.
Instead, let it be a source of inspiration,
For their zeal and enthusiasm is a celebration.
So nonprofits, nonprofits, heed my advice,
And you’ll find in Millennials and Gen Z a priceless device.
For with their spirit and wisdom, they’ll help you achieve,
A brighter future for all, and in that you can believe.
