I'm just not getting this "nonprofit American idol". The sector is being deluged with these "friend raising, cash a chit and get people to vote for you, and.....win money!" A charitable act of kindness for the sponsor? Obviously not!
An associate sent me the latest from Chase Bank:
We're asking you to help decide which 200 local charities share $5 million in donations from Chase. Start voting for your favorites on June 15 and show us what matters most to you - and your community. It's a new Way Forward for giving.
New way forward for giving? I think not. Quite the contrary this type of philanthropy does no one a service except of course the sponsor. Sure, the winner gets some bucks but why? Because they had a social media program in place. And good for them! But does anyone really vet the entrants? And how informed are voters? Likely as much as the gazillions of individuals who vote for the American Idol. Good quality, outcomes focused, high standards philanthropy -- not in the least!
Chase and Pepsi and all you other "generous" game players -- GROW UP! If you are going to be philanthropic -- take it seriously! We are after all talking some serious money but will it really make a difference doled out this way? Who will ever know?