Over the last decade we have had a lot of interesting internet/social media movements.  Examples: Planking, Parkour (don’t feel bad if you don’t know what that one is), and the still viral Flash Mob movement.  As I sit and reflect on these Youtube/Facebook phenomena, I have to ask myself if we as a generation just don’t have enough to do…

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a good flash mob as much as any other girl, in fact there are flash mob prayer movements sparking up here and there.  Even with a few great things coming out of these internet crazes, I have to wonder if we aren’t putting our efforts into movements that just seem…pointless.  
What if we channeled that same effort into something more meaningful?

It’s strange how something like Facebook can be such a powerful tool in bringing people together, and such a meaningless distraction at the same time.  I think it has to do with your focus.  If you are focused on what your best friend’s cousin’s sister had for breakfast this morning, you can probably find that on your facebook feed…but if you are like me, and could care less about Suzie’s cheerios, you should probably utilize your social media for something more inspiring.  

So if you’re bored with meaningless followings on twitter and facebook, allow me to introduce you to a powerful social media movement happening right here in the Greater Des Moines area!  Join365 is a group fueled through the YMCA that uses social media to promote volunteerism in the area.  Imagine the impact of everyone in Des Moines doing something good 365 days of the year!  

It isn’t as hard as you might think.  You don’t have to volunteer 6 hours a day to make an impact.  Its a lifestyle of awareness of the community around you and how you can be an active part of it.

Today I spoke with Mary Bolling, the digital marketing specialist at Join 365 and I asked her what she liked about working there.  Mary says, “Its because of the mission. I hate to throw that word around, but I like the approach that you can make a big difference by doing a little everyday.”  Well said, Mary.  She also comments on the social media aspect, “It’s powerful to use social media to encourage giving back to the community…and it’s fun to see your friends getting involved with you.” 

HOW TO GET STARTED:

To be a part of the 365 experience, you register on the “Join” page of their website and then choose from different ways to receive updates (email, text, facebook, etc.)

They also have online “challenges” where they give you a task to make a positive impact on the world around you.  Challenges like, “Give a Compliment” where you brighten someone’s day or “Better Your World” where you pick up any stray trash you see and throw it away.  They send you a reminder the day the challenge is on and it’s easy because you can easily work it into your day.  

365 is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.  If you are going to be a part of any online following, this is one you will want to invest your time in.  It doesn’t just affect your social media world, it impacts the more important one around you. So Join 365 and make a difference in the lives of others…every day.