This week we sent out our holiday emailers, encouraging our supporters to give their charitable dollars this December to our Youth & Cultural Centre project in Gulu, northern Uganda. We also did things a little differently this year.
Our Athletes for Africa email focused on the community and asks you to, “…give a gift that will last lifetimes.” You can see it here.
The second, through GuluWalk, was a tongue-in-cheek poke at our gift obsessions and the fact that not every child wants a video game this Christmas. Instead we ask you to, “give a gift that actually makes a difference.” Click here to take peek.
The second one (pictured) has offended a few people, but so far it’s getting more people to actually click through and make a donation. We’re testing. Trying new things. We’re measuring what’s works and what doesn’t, while keeping in mind our audience, supporters and the passion they already have for our work. What do you think?
Oh, and we’re doing it all with Google Analytics, you should check it out. More on this to come.
You know I love you and your work Adrian, but ultimately, it’s the image, whose image, and how it is used to compel the clicker to click or not. Remember the conversation about getting the diasporans to get involved? Would you consider getting a different website/methodolgy to reach them? What does a diasporan do when they come across thisimage? How can they (and I) respond appropriately? How much does the google analytics account for the diasporans clicking or not clicking? Does it even matter? Who’s to judge that this kid, (or any other kid for that matter), should or should not get a game for Christmas or a gift at all? Why should this kid (or any other kid for that matter) get a gift to last a lifetime? It’s atricky space you occupy, my friend. Acholi used to tell tales of Apwoyo, the hare. Like the Haida Raven and the West African Spider, he often has to traverse tricky terrain. Okot p’Bitek wrote a collection. A few other have, too. Happy Christmas reading and my best to you family.
Julie.