"The speed in which you can go out and connect with a community is changed forever," said social media guru Nate Riggs. 

ONN's Harrison Hove posed a simple a question on his Facebook and Twitter pages:  How has social media helped your environmental organization?

"We use FB (Facebook) and Twitter to keep our followers informed about our monthly green drinks event," responded Green_Columbus.

The Environmental Education Council of Ohio's Executive Director Brenda Metcalf sent Hove a message on Facebook.

Metcalf said social media saves the organization money on mailing costs. She added it seems to be the way of the future.

Riggs said social media can save your organization money.

"For the financial investment, you're going to get a lot of reach.  You're going to get a lot of spread throughout communities," he explained.

Use that keyboard and mouse to your advantage. Embrace social media and don't be intimidated.

"A lot of organizations get scared because they think if we go into this we have to do it right immediately.  If you don't get in and experiment, try new things, ideas, and get used to using technology and connecting with people, you're never going to get it right." added Riggs.

Start small and build your presence.

"Go out and use it for personal use.  Invest time in your Facebook profile, connect with people on LinkedIn.  Start a blog," said Riggs.

MORE INFORMATION:

Nate Riggs' Web Site

Green Columbus

Environmental Education Council of Ohio

Follow Harrison Hove on Twitter

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