Digital charity and third sector comms – groups and communities you should know about

The shift towards digital communication has not only transformed how organisations connect with their supporters but also how they operate internally, collaborate with other groups, and rally for causes. 

From online fundraising campaigns to social media advocacy, the digital landscape offers a plethora of opportunities for charities to create meaningful change. 

In this blog post, we explore the crucial role that digital communication plays in the third sector, focusing on how various groups and communities are using these tools to foster connections, raise awareness, and drive collective action. 

Whether you’re part of a charity looking to enhance your digital presence or simply interested in how the third sector is evolving in the digital era, this guide will provide valuable insights into the power of digital charity and community-driven communications. 

Let’s delve into how these groups are navigating the digital world and harnessing its potential to make a difference.

1. Third Sector PR & Comms Network

Third Sector PR & Comms network is a Facebook group dedicated to professionals working in public relations and communications within the third sector. This community serves as a valuable platform for networking, sharing insights, and discussing industry trends. One of its notable features is a monthly jobs thread, making it a useful resource for those seeking employment opportunities in the field. The group likely facilitates discussions on best practices, emerging technologies, and challenges specific to nonprofit communications.

2. eCampaigning Forum (ECF)

The eCampaigning forum, hosted by FairSay, is an email list that focuses on digital campaigning strategies and techniques. It provides a weekly compilation of job opportunities, making it a valuable resource for professionals looking to advance their careers in the digital advocacy space. Members of this forum exchange ideas on effective online campaigning methods, discuss case studies, and share insights on leveraging technology for social change.

3. Fundraising Chat

Fundraising Chat is a Facebook group that brings together fundraising professionals to discuss various aspects of their work. It’s a space where members share fundraising strategies, discuss challenges, and offer support to one another. The community covers a wide range of fundraising topics, from traditional methods to innovative approaches.

4. Digital Fundraising Chat

Digital Fundraising Chat, another Facebook group, focuses specifically on digital fundraising strategies and techniques. This community discusses topics such as online donation platforms, social media fundraising, email campaigns, and other digital tools that can help charities and nonprofits raise funds more effectively in the digital age.

5. UK Fundraising

UK Fundraising is a Facebook page that serves as an information hub for fundraising professionals in the United Kingdom. While not a group like those aforementioned, this page shares news, articles, and resources relevant to the UK fundraising sector. It covers topics such as regulatory changes, fundraising trends, and best practices specific to the UK context.

6. Chartered Institute of Fundraising

The Institute of Fundraising, now known as the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, has a Facebook page that represents the professional membership body for UK fundraising. Their page shares updates on industry standards, training opportunities, and sector news. Notably, they maintain a Jobs board, making it a valuable resource for those seeking employment in the fundraising sector.

7. Charity Connect

Charity Connect is an online platform designed to facilitate networking and knowledge sharing among charity professionals. It features online communities including Fundraising, Leadership & Governance, and Marketing & Comms, to name just a few, all supporting professionals working in various roles within the charitable sector.

8. Digital Charities

Digital Charities is an online community that focuses on the intersection of technology and the charitable sector. With a dedicated Jobs channel, it serves as both a learning platform and a career resource. Members discuss topics such as digital transformation in nonprofits, online engagement strategies, and emerging technologies relevant to the sector.

9. Agencies for Good

Agencies for Good is a community that brings together agencies and professionals working in the social impact sector. With a Jobs channel, it serves as a networking platform and career resource for those seeking to align their agency work with social causes. The community facilitates discussions on ethical marketing, cause-related campaigns, and strategies for creating positive social impact through agency work.