DoGooder Video Tips: Create your own nonprofit video in three easy steps

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a video can tell your life story. At the Case Foundation, we are strong believers that video is an essential element for all nonprofits to embrace, especially for telling their story, spreading awareness of their cause and encouraging support and activism.This is why are sponsoring the 5th Annual DoGooder Nonprofit Video Awards, and it’s also why we want your nonprofit to create powerful and inspirational videos about your work.

I know what you are thinking; I don’t know the first thing about creating quality videos. Equipment can be expensive, post production is difficult and we don’t have a single production person on staff. The good news is, none of that is true. Modern technology has made video production so inexpensive, simple and intuitive that any and every organization should be participating. Don't believe us? Take it from the experts at FlipVideo.

We were lucky enough to be able to talk Basho Mosko from Cisco’s Flip Video team about Flip video and nonprofits. Also, be sure to check out the videos below to see how Basho makes filming a great video as easy as 1-2-3.

Josh: What is the Flip Video Spotlight program and why should nonprofits take part?

Basho: The Flip Video Spotlight program is our 2-for-1 matching offer to nonprofit organizations. We believe strongly in the value of video to multiply the impact an organization can have, and created the Spotlight program to help them easily access Flip Video technology. For every unit purchased through our nonprofit storefront, Flip Video will donate a unit to the organization. You can sign up at www.flipforgood.org.

Josh: Why is so important for nonprofits to get involved with producing their own videos?

Basho: Video is becoming the primary platform for sharing information, and used strategically it can both create efficiencies and multiply the impact of nonprofit programs. Now that it is so easy to shoot and share, no organization has an excuse for not leveraging the power of video.

Josh: If you had one golden piece of advice for anyone creating videos with a Flipcam, what would it be?

Basho: Make short, personal videos that speak directly to your constituents. Let them know how you feel and what your work is like. Share the stories behind what you're doing so that they can feel part of your programs efforts. Oh, and did I say keep them short? Lively or fun help too.

And, oh yeah… if your nonprofit has created any videos on a shoestring budget, be sure to submit them to the newest DoGooder video category, Best Thrifty Video (videos produced for under $500), for a chance to win a $2,500 grant from the Case Foundation and other great prizes.