Volunteerism and Social Media

To some, social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter may seem too daunting to engage with. They can seem, on first glance, overwhelming. However, there are great benefits in taking the plunge and using social media. Social media enables people to stay more connected over greater distances and help bridge the gap between younger and older generations. Indeed, while these days, staying connected is more important than ever, it is also far more feasible. The benefits of social media to the 50+ are many and varied; one only needs to learn how to use it.

 

Social media is a great tool for staying connected with family members through chatting and sharing pictures and video. It’s a great way to stay connected with those who may no longer live nearby, and offers the ability to share moments, real-time, in sight, sound, and text. But it is also more than that. It’s a way to connect with people on a deeper level. It’s a way to engage in conversation and ultimately take action on causes on causes and issues that are common, even if geographic location is not. AARP New Jersey communicates with members and volunteers using its Facebook page ( www.Facebook.com/AARPNJ) and posts regularly on events and advocacy issues that are important to New Jersey’s 50+.

 

One social media user recently described the social media experience in his blog post, “Senior citizens are the fastest growing demographic on Facebook. And does this surprise anyone? A senior myself, I use social media tools to keep up with my friends as well as my family. For seniors, Facebook is an enabling tool to get in touch with long lost friends and relatives, see pictures of grandchildren, and learn more about the brands and causes that mean something to us.”

 

If you would like more information or are interested in learning how to become a social media volunteer, please contact Jeff Abramo at jabramo@aarp.org And “like” us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AARPNewJersey.+

 

We are currently looking to set up social media trainings. If you are interested in participating in future trainings, let us know!