The Best Social Media Platforms for Nonprofits and How to Use Them

Social media is a powerful tool for nonprofits, helping organizations reach more people, engage supporters, and raise funds. But with so many platforms available, it’s essential to use the right ones strategically. Here’s a breakdown of the best social media platforms for nonprofits and how to make the most of them.

1. LinkedIn: Networking, Partnerships, and Thought Leadership

Best for: Connecting with potential donors, volunteers, partners, and employees.

How to Use It:

• Share success stories, impact reports, and project updates to attract partnerships.
• Post thought leadership articles and insights to position your nonprofit as an authority in your field.
• Engage with industry professionals and organizations to build collaborations.
• Host live events or panel discussions with experts and supporters.

2. Facebook: Community Engagement and Fundraising

Best for: Reaching a broad audience, running fundraisers, and community building.

How to Use It:

• Use Facebook’s fundraising tools to collect donations directly on the platform.
• Post impactful stories, videos, and updates to engage your audience.
• Host Facebook Live sessions to showcase events, volunteer efforts, or Q&A sessions.
• Create Facebook Groups for volunteers, donors, or beneficiaries to build a strong community.

3. Instagram: Visual Storytelling and Fundraising

Best for: Showcasing nonprofit work through compelling images and short videos.

How to Use It:

• Share high-quality photos and videos of your work, team, and beneficiaries.
• Use Instagram Stories and Reels to share behind-the-scenes content and quick updates.
• Add donation stickers to Stories to encourage easy contributions.
• Collaborate with influencers or supporters to spread awareness.

4. X (Twitter): Advocacy and Real-Time Updates

Best for: Advocacy, crisis response, and engaging with journalists, influencers, and policymakers.

How to Use It:

• Post quick updates on campaigns, initiatives, and urgent calls to action.
• Engage in trending conversations and use relevant hashtags to amplify your message.
• Connect with activists, influencers, and media outlets to spread awareness.
• Host Twitter Spaces for live discussions on key nonprofit issues.

5. TikTok: Reaching a Younger Audience

Best for: Raising awareness among younger generations through creative and viral content.

How to Use It:

• Create short, engaging videos that tell your nonprofit’s story in a relatable way.
• Use trending sounds and challenges to reach a wider audience.
• Partner with TikTok influencers who support your cause.
• Show volunteer experiences, testimonials, and fun behind-the-scenes moments.

6. YouTube: Long-Form Storytelling and Awareness

Best for: Video storytelling, educational content, and campaign highlights.

How to Use It:

• Post documentary-style videos showcasing your nonprofit’s impact.
• Create educational content to raise awareness about your cause.
• Share event highlights, interviews, and personal stories from beneficiaries.
• Optimize video titles and descriptions with keywords to increase discoverability.

Choosing the Right Platforms

Not every nonprofit needs to be on every platform. Choose the ones that best align with your goals and where your audience is most active. With the right strategy, social media can help you amplify your mission, engage supporters, and drive real impact.

Start small, experiment with different content types, and track your results to refine your approach over time!