Smart Savvy

Google is always leading, always inspiring. They always bring it back to (and start with) what people want.

Ok Ted.com is my candy store.  Love it. Ultimately, be genuine, don’t take yourself too seriously —  its ok to lose control.

I read the following newsletter article from NFPSynergy.net, a UK based NFP focused research consultancy,  and thought it was right on the money. In fact, a lot of what they say seems to be.  It’s no secret that the web is the starting point for all marketing and communications plans/efforts.  NFP’s that master the art of storytelling and (prospective) donor engagement online will be sure to make great strides towards achieving their mission.

I can still remember the first fundraising appeal that moved me. I can remember where I was when I opened it and I can remember what it said. It was an appeal from the Head of Emergencies in Oxfam at Christmas 1987. He described the emotional and moral challenges of going to visit emergency situations, where children died in his arms, and then returning home to face the materialist world of Christmas. When will we say ‘enough is enough’ was his call to action.

I can also remember signing up to Shelter at 5pm on a long hot July day for a face to face fundraiser who said he had signed up one person so far that day and it was his birthday. I can remember my mother (a sheep farmer) telling me how she had gone into her building society the day after an early Red Nose day and declared that she wanted to buy a goat for £50 for some pastoralists in Africa.

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Lots of inspiration to be found here.  Remember  – there’s an expiry date in blaming your parents for your failures.

J.K. Rowling Speaks at Harvard Commencement from Harvard Magazine on Vimeo.

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Tyrone Lingley, Smart Savvy Top Grads 2009 finalist has just secured a fantastic contract with VANOC as a Torch Relay Coordinator. His (dream) job includes a 42,000 km coast-to-coast trek across Canada, ensuring each Torchbearer has an experience worthy of a rocking chair story. He’ll be involved in communications, logistical analysis, and the excitement of telling someone for the first time that they will carry the Torch.

Tyrone’s adventure has already begun and will be landing in Dawson City, YT today.

When we asked Tyrone about how the Olympics have impacted his life, he replied, “My Olympic journey began in my grandmother’s living room in 1988 watching Ben Johnson win gold (with a little help). From that point on, I marveled at what human beings are capable of and I believe the Olympics are the ultimate platform to showcase that.”

The most anticipated stop for Tyrone is Sechelt, BC. Coincidentally, Tyrone will be meeting his mom, an Olympic Torchbearer, to offer her a hug before she carries the flame.

You can follow Tyrone’s journey at his blog.

Congrats, Tyrone!

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Introducing Catalyst + CO. - Non-Profit Recruitment Specialists - a new division of Smart Savvy that was launched this week. Catalyst delivers accomplished individuals with the passion and skills to drive non-profits to great results, saving time and reducing the risk. Catalyst + CO. specializes in finding Executive Directors, funding & development professionals and marketing & communications specialists.

To learn Why non-profit? Why Catalyst? Why now? Check out the Catalyst blog. If you are interested in the NFP sector be sure to register with us so we can keep you in mind for suitable roles.

Follow Catalyst + CO on Twitter and connect on LinkedIn.

Great way to communicate what’s possible with that right attitude. Love it.

Makes me think… how many ‘ringers’ might be sitting on your bench. You might be surprised when you ’suit-up’ a team member that you’ve underestimated.

We thought it was time to resurrect the Smokin Recruiter

Smavvy Top Grad Brian Wong recommended this presentation. He is my direct link to what all the ‘cool kids’ are doing on line. He’s definitey one to watch out for. Incidentally he is presenting his product Followformation at the IMC2009 tomorrow in Vancouver and LA’s 140tc