www.specialolympics.org

Success in Social Media Tips, tricks and ideas from current Project UNIFY youth leaders to help you share the messages of Special Olympics and Project UNIFY through your own social networks.

GOOD IDE A S FOR SHARING ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Not sure what to share about Project UNIFY on your favorite social media platform? Check out some of

these ideas on what to share:

• Personal stories about being involved with the movement that inspire your friends and family to

take action

o You can post your story directly onto the Project UNIFY Facebook Page, or tag the Special

Olympics Project UNIFY handle in your own status. This is a great way to call attention to

Project UNIFY and encourage all of your friends and followers to learn more about Project

UNIFY as well.

o Try to make sure your posts are always upbeat and reflect Project UNIFY in a positive light.

Stay away from “bad day” posts or saying things that went wrong.

• Pictures that represent your Project UNIFY experience

o Try sharing photos like these from your Unified Sports practice, Young Athletes event or

Spread the Word to End the Word rally.

2 | Special Olympics

• Videos, videos and more videos!

o Videos that were taken at your local events – like State Games, YAC meetings, or a local

rally – are a great thing to share with donors and supporters because it helps them see the

value of their support.

o Videos are great tools to spread a message. If you’re passionate about ending the R-word,

tell people why; if you love Unified Sports, share a video about you and your partner to

show the value.

• Fundraising information, goals and successes

o Participating in Over The Edge or Polar Plunge? Share your fundraising goals, progress and

successes through social media. You’ll help your friends and family get excited about your

participation, encourage donations and allow everyone to track your progress in the event.

o When talking about fundraising, make sure to include a direct link to your personal page

for those who wish to donate. Keep it as easy as possible to help encourage donations.

• Messages of congratulations to local athletes and partners in your area

o For example: Congratulations to my friend Jane – she was selected to compete at the 2013

World Games in January! We will all be rooting for you from home!

• Articles that share information or successes about Project UNIFY

o Always make sure to include a link.

• Information about upcoming events

o It’s great to encourage your friends and family to get involved as Fans in the Stands.

o When you post to ask your friends and family to volunteer – make sure to include all the

information they’ll need (i.e. dates, times, job description) and a link or contact information

so they can sign up.

• Applications for upcoming Youth Summits or Rallies