The Trevor Project: Impact of Influencers on Nonprofit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations rely on the recognition and support of the community for funding and resources. Organizations like The Trevor Project have understood that utilizing the reach of social media influencers or celebrities can gain increased notoriety and impact.

According to their website, The Trevor Project is the leading national organization for providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention for the LGBTQ+ community. They specifically work to serve those 25 and younger as this age group faces changes in identity while coping with family, friend and academic pressures.

Source: Thetrevorproject.org

In order to increase awareness, The Trevor Project has often reached out to YouTube creators and celebrities for partnerships, endorsements and fundraiser collaboration. YouTuber Tyler Oakley (who identifies as gay) has posted several videos on his channel explaining his support of The Trevor Project and the important role this organization serves for the LGBTQ+ community.

This video highlights both The Trevor Project's ability to collaborate with an influencer who has a direct connection to their target audience, as well as the organization's capability of gaining the support of numerous celebrities.

Hosting events like the one featured in this video would gain attention from the media and increase the general public's awareness of The Trevor Project. Thus, not only would celebrities donate to the cause, but members of the community who want to support LGBTQ+ youth would as well. Oakley ends the video requesting viewers help him raise $24,000 for The Trevor Project. He ended up raising $29,000. By partnering with Oakley, The Trevor Project was able to advance their reach to a global community and form lasting impressions.

The Trevor Project is still an extremely successful Nonprofit Organization today and continues to help thousands of children across the United States. While their work speaks for itself, the validation of celebrities and influencers has clearly helped the organization become known and respected.

References:

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/#sm.00017r3qla11d0f85swxwqqlln4ep

https://youtu.be/GjKp_zM2dC0