There aren’t many companies that have earned the trust the Red Cross has. In my in-box today was the latest example of how they do it.
I had made a donation to the Canadian Red Cross in support of their earthquake relief efforts in Haiti, and today they sent an e-mail saying, “Thank you. Your generosity is making a difference in Haiti.”
But they didn’t leave it at that.
- They listed some of the ways donations have supported their efforts, in sending over 2,600 metric tonnes of relief items; distributing one million litres of water to 200,000 people each day; and providing medical care to more than 9,600 people so far.
- They linked to “photos of your support in action” at the Canadian Red Cross Flickr page, where you can see people carrying boxes, distributing supplies, performing surgery, draping people in blankets, comforting children.
- They noted that in addition to helping now, the Red Cross is analyzing how to rebuild the nation and make it stronger, healthier and more resilient.
- A final note includes ways to encourage others to give by setting up a personalized fundraising page, and there are links to forward the note to a friend, visit the home page for Haiti relief or follow the Red Cross on Twitter and Facebook.
This information is also found on their web site, but they didn’t wait for me to go there and find it; they made sure I saw it.
Nicely done.
That is such a nice thing, I really wish more organizations would take that extra step like this group has done.
Great to hear Sue!
Sue, I became an even bigger fan of the Canadian Red Cross after attending its “thank you to Canadians” tweetup back in December, showcasing the #PicturesTalk exhibit (regarding tsunami relief and rebuilding efforts). Although it certainly wasn’t the CRC’s direct intention, the public relations and goodwill it generated probably played a part in how many attendees from the exhibit (which travelled around for several months) immediately thought to donate to the Canadian Red Cross’ Haiti relief efforts.
FYI, I was motivated to do a blog post about the tweetup: An effective communication campaign: #PicturesTalk. And are you following the Canadian Red Cross on Twitter? The account was established during the (intensive) Haiti relief efforts.
Amy, you’re right, it’s a simple extra step that more organizations should take. Judy, I am now following the Red Cross on Twitter after their thank you message. Your post certainly shows that their efforts cover a wide variety of actions. Even more nicely done that I had thought!
Thanks for sharing a great example of the right way to say thank you.