Response to Barbara Talisman’s Misinformed 12for12k Post

I saw your response on Barbara's blog when it eventually made it past the moderation, and to see your continued support despite your own personal hardships just humbles me immensely, Cheryl, and reinforces my belief in the overall goodness of humanity. Thank you for being you.

Collaboration is such a positive way to operate! Your ability to articulate a clear vision enables all of us to contribute in our way. By the way, thanks for noticing. Acknowledgement is a wonderful gift!

I'm in. Great idea ladies!

Well said, James - I agree 100% The point of 12for12k isn't to attract big donors with large sums to give away, they are going elsewhere anyway. 12for12k allows us regular people, people suffering from lower income this year anyway in many cases, to still be able to make a positive contribution to help others.That basic idea - many each making a small contribution that amounts to a lot - is what makes the 12for12k concept special.For me it works well - until I came across Danny's idea I'd never really given much thought to contributing to charity, thinking that I'd never make a difference so what's the point. This year is tough for us financially, but I know there are many who'd love to be in my position.Thanks for supporting 12for12k (Bill as well - I just noticed your post underneath, Bill) this is what it is all about!

Hi Barbara,See, personally I think this comment would have made a better original blog post - constructive advice and possible solutions, as opposed to the fallout from the previous one.I do have to correct you on a couple of points though:1. At no stage has 12for12k ever referred to supporters as beggars. The phrase you're picking up on (from the conference call you joined) was that we didn't want to come across as "always begging for money", which can happen. There's a definite difference in meaning.2. Yes, social media is just part of a marketing strategy, and with the folks involved in 12for12k, I don't think you'll find any weakness there - there are so many brilliant folk giving up their time for free. The fact they want to speaks volumes of the belief to make this work. None of us are "non-profit experts" like you and that's why we rely on the lessons we learn from month to month to improve. You can be sure this is happening, and our plans for 2010 may just surprise you.3. I've never been a fan of "demanding" people pay a certain amount. I don't want to make someone feel bad if they can't donate; I don't want someone to feel not as valuable as someone else based on donation levels. What does that achieve? It's great to get big corporate donors, but very often a lot are either in it for selfish reasons, or won't look at new initiatives like ourselves, Twestival, Tweetsgiving, etc. So for people to offer what they can (even when they can't, like James and Bill earlier in the comments) means a lot more than a simple dollar amount.The one thing you seem to be missing is that none of us make any money on 12for12k. It's all 100% free time and resources that we offer the charities. We have day jobs away from 12for12k that we need to keep to pay the mortgage, to put food on the table. This means very often we don't have time or resources to offer many of the solutions you suggest - we can only offer so many hours in the day.Creating buzz is the ideal scenario and that's something that we try and look at always - but without having a business dedicated to 12for12k, then it's not always easy. Which is why 2010 will be a real eye-opener for true change - here's hoping you enjoy.Thanks for your apology earlier at your blog.

To both you and Bill, James, your story touches me immensely. I've known you as a supporter from the start, and I've appreciated your honesty when a charity hasn't been for you. That's what it's always been about - choice.The choice that both you and Bill (and others) make even when times are completely against you make you a giant of a human being, and I'm honoured to know you both.

You mean we hadn't cornered you before, Kristina? I'll have to check in on the 12for12k marketing partners and find out what's going on... ;-)Thanks for an eloquent and solid combination of explanation and rationality - excellent example of what social media is and can be used for. And again, thank you for your support.

Thanks Elli, and I've seen some of these talks and features you've done - brilliant way of sharing the bigger picture on many things.What's been humbling about the responses is that it's the team and supporters that are getting the recognition as well - something that doesn't always happen. To me, that means we're building something right and that it's everyone involved who's being recognized, from the biggest donor to the single tweeter - everyone makes that difference.

Now see what you've started??? No wonder your hubby loves you, Heather - you're a star! Thank you :)

There's always going to be that problem, Sara - the very nature of charitable work means that some won't appeal, some will. We're human beings - we like to have a say in things, that's natural. Like you say, as long as one person stands up for that charity, it's made some kind of difference. Here's hoping we can all stand up together :)

I guess I came over as the father protecting his children... :)It is a shame that a lot of charity success boils down to how much money was raised. Yes, this helps - but who does it help? The folks that need it or the admin teams that take a chunk before passing it on?This was the reasoning behind 12for12k - let's get it to those folks that need us the most. 2010 and beyond is going to prove that in a way that I think (hope) will connect with so many. More news soon.PS - despite the frequent baiting with each other, happy to know you too, fella. :)

Thanks for that Iggy - as the guy behind Connection Generation (and someone I respect hugely and call a friend), I'm more than touched by your (and everyone else's) support. And I have some special plans for you and Oz, mate - be warned... ;-)

That was an outstanding post, fella, and perfect advice for anyone. As I mentioned to Barbara, all she had to do was pick up the phone or email me and it could have been a different chat we were having today. However, it's one of these things - here's to learning, moving on, and "Doing You".

Knowing the awesome work you do day in, day out Gabe, I'll take that advice and run with it. Always a pleasure to learn from you, fella, thank you.

Thanks Valerie - I think that's been one of the more rewarding aspects of this project, is the fact that it's helped raise the profiles of some lesser-know charities. Of course, we need to try and make sure that awareness continues long after we've departed for that month. That's why we'll continue to offer support and help where we can. We can always do more (or it feels like it) but we're one year in on a long-term goal. Here's to long-term.

I've seen you at work, Shannon - you're one of the best when it comes to how to use social media for all reasons - good, bad (as in possible errors of judgment), positive, etc. Maybe there's consultancy work there '-)

Thanks Christina. I would love for us to reach our targets every month (and I did set them high to make them a challenge to push us). But often we can do more with no dollars (especially when money is tight for so many people as it is now). Seeing folks with no jobs still contribute gets to me every time; how can you ever thank enough? If that's a failure; if people believe and want to help so much even when they can't afford to; you can't put a price on that.

I agree, Shonali, and trust me, no-one feels the pain more than the 12for12k'rs when targets aren't reached. There have been very simple reasons why that has been the case some months, and not-so-clear ones on others. We're always looking at what worked, what didn't, why, how can we learn, etc. The lessons we're learning this year will make a huge difference for 2010 and beyond (and hopefully help the remaining charities for this year!).

Agreed, Roger (and like Jon Aston mentions earlier). Let's concentrate on all the good things coming up and continue to make a real difference where and how we can.

Oh, we've definitely had a few misses along the way, Ellen :)But the important thing is that we've learned from them, put improvements in place and will continue to do so. And this has led to us completely evolving the 12for12k involvement for next year and beyond - I think you'll like what you see :)

Thanks Laura - I love how you've put the positive vibe back here, I think we can all learn from you. :)I guess that's one of the points that irked me as well - it felt like 12for12k supporters were being criticized for not thinking big, but it's not always as easy as that. Not everyone can afford to donate even $10 - but there are other ways to help and be involved, and that's where I think the real value comes in. Yes, donations would be great, but knowing about the charities and giving at a more affluent time can't be too wrong either, can it? And just talking about the charities has helped introduce many to those that may never have heard of them - and it's something we'll continue to do, along with some big new plans for 2010 and beyond.Thanks again, Laura, appreciate your continued support. :)

Thanks Bill - I was chatting about next year with @JonAston in my hometown recently, and knowing how you and Rae are so local community-minded, I think 2010 could be a watershed year as far as how we make an impact to those around us. It's an evolving plan, and hopefully we can learn from the mistakes made this year and really build up a head of steam.

Hey there David,I chuckled when I saw the "meh" comment - that needs to be brought more into the English language, no? Thanks, fella, really appreciate it, it's been both humbling and inspiring to see the people and replies here (and at Barbara's blog) - it offers great hope for building something special and changing with 12for12k next year and beyond. Cheers!

Concur'd.

James,I found myself unemployed, behind on house payments, struggling just to survive. Yet in the midst of it all, through the 12for12k team, their inspiration and dedication, my wife and gave. We gave $10 each, our kids watched as we tweeted, retweeted and interacted. The older ones in amazement at what was happening - that a bunch of strangers would sit, chat, talk, tweet and reach out to the world through social media. That powerful, effective change happens to those who come into contact with 12for12k with an open mind, open heart and a willingness to just do.I wish you best of luck with college, and hope you all the best in the coming months...hang in there.

Ten dollars is not too little. For some of us who support 12for12k, ten dollars is more than we can comfortably give, but we sacrifice.I was injured on the job in April '08. I haven't had a day job since. I've done a little freelance writing here and there, but it's little money and far between. I recently returned to college in order to retrain. It's only by the goodness of God that I'm able to make it from week to week.I, my wife and my children gladly support 12for12k with our $10 each month. What would you have me give?

Great perspective, Heather. I'm following your lead. Let's all put it on the calendar.

Barbara - I've know Danny for almost a year now and recently had the pleasure of meeting with him in Florida in preparation for Tweetsgiving 2009. I consider myself a good judge of character and Danny really is one of the best blokes I've met - ever. What makes him great (and what makes the whole 12for12k team great) is a single powerful asset that is sourly missing in today's world: Sincerity. Taking action as Danny (and the 12for12k team) has - putting balls right out on the front lines - is incredibly inspiring for hundreds, if not thousands of folks like me, who want to make a positive change in the world.So instead of cutting down an effort like 12for12k, please dream and take action with us!Thanks, Barbara!

Danny, I know I am a little late to this (especially in social media time) but I just wanted to add my voice to the chorus defending and encouraging you. I actually took the time to read the post and your response and all the comments. One thing struck me more than anything else. All the comments I read on her blog were defending you, and 12 for 12K. You figure that would be the case here, but there too? There isn't one passionate supporter over there to back her up and tell her she was right? Very telling.I don't think it's because she is wrong (and of course she is). Plenty of people passionately defend "wrong" every day. I think it is because some people inspire and some don't. Some people create and innovate, and inspire other to do the same. You are one one those people, and she obviously is not. Others have eloquently stated why your efforts and 12for12K are worthwhile, far better than I can. Her motivation? Not worth the energy required to consider. The results speak for themselves. You continue to do what you do, because the world IS a little better for it.

You're missing the point.No one here is interested in the numbers. The $12,000 monthly goal is JUST a number. If we reach that goal, awesome!! If 12for12k falls short, it is by NO means a failure because every dollar helps and every campaign brings awareness which is something you can't even put a dollar value on.This is about making people a part of something. This is about touching hearts. This is about showing people who didn't think they had anything to give that they DO. The single moms, the unemployed, the disabled, the people living on fixed incomes...we CAN help and Danny Brown has proved that to us.You're just way too focused on money and I've seen several comments from you about "yeah, so and so raised money but its not enough..." You couldn't be more wrong. It IS enough. Yes, there is more money out there to be raised, yes more people could be contributing, but there is NO point in taking shots at the people who have contributed or the amount of their contributions.How much have YOU raised and how much have YOU put in your own pocket? You're just digging yourself in deeper.

Danny,Thanks for posting on my blog. And posting mine on yours.We need to do more to raise money with the millions of 12for12K folks you have assembled. Raising money is hard - no one likes doing it but we have to - to make change. It costs money to make these organizations run.You are the social media guru - let's raise the bar, use some fundraising best practices translated to the medium and set a goal for 12for12K to raise $12M by 12/2010. YOU have the people to make it happen. Your supporters have asked/dared me to help. My answer is yes.

Danny,I haven't even bothered to read her post and I probably won't because I don't want it to ruin this warm fuzzy feeling I have from reading the comments here.You know I will always be behind you as one of your biggest "fans" ;) and if I believed for one nanosecond that you had any kind of self-serving agenda or malicious motives for your work via 12for12k, I never would have put myself through publicly posting that video about my own experiences to help raise awareness (and funds) for child sexual abuse survivors.From what I've read in your post and in the comments, it really does sound like sour grapes and a lot of jealousy because you've managed to do what she wasn't able to do AND you've done it with integrity and genuineness.

Danny,I believe in what 12 for 12k does - and the long tail is amazing. I wrote a blog post for one of the charities and am still receiving words of encouragement about my story - and that was months ago!Every $1 is needed. The fact that the money goes directly to the charity and not through a middleman keeps the money where it really needs to be.The good news is - when the trolls come out, you know you are doing good work!@debworks

Just want to chime in and put my support behind you and your charitable efforts, Danny! The work you have done has been far-stretching and immensely commendable. I feel very sorry for someone that can look at what you've done and consider it self-serving. Yes, your profile is raised from this work, but I don't think anyone should have any issue with that. Heck, I first came across you because of the challenge and I am thankful to share a network with you.You are a thought-leader in our industry who has dedicated time, energy and probably other things that we don't even know to help raise money for these charities. If that is wrong, you shouldn't want to be right.Keep up the excellent work, my friend.

As I responded on your blog with regards your response to John Haydon, you did actually call and speak with me earlier this year, Barbara. The suggestion was as recounted in my above post - instead of sending charities the funds, we could use your consultancy's expertise in teaching them about long-term change and solutions. The conversation you refer to was one we had later in the year when the charities had been locked in - two different conversations.Regards,Danny.

My comment from Barbara's blog. One additional note - I think we are all waiting to understand why she resulted to such juvenile insults.Barbara,It is very ironic that you would choose to publicly question Danny's integrity without disclosing that you have approached him on more than one occasion hoping to “win the business” of 12for12k. In addition, you joined the conference call the other day, but unlike the rest of us listening for information on how we can further our involvement, your hostile questioning was intended to gather fodder for this blog post. When you were asked your name you refused to divulge it, nor would you share your ulterior motives for being on the call. Shame on you. You may want to visit Danny’s blog and research some of his past posts about transparency and social media.Danny Brown is not a fundraiser by trade, he is a marketer and he has an expertise in social media. He took a step back and looked at his community and asked himself how he could create something a little bigger and a little better than simply people bantering about the latest Twitter upgrade. He is constantly on the hunt for new ideas and techniques to make his project stronger and more successful. And Barbara, he doesn’t make a dime from it.I assure you Barbara, what you see with Danny Brown is exactly what you get. He is the warmest, kindest person you could meet. In questioning his integrity I think you’ve put yours on the line. I’m sorry your nastiness has taken us all away from the real issue at hand, raising money for deserving causes. Rachel Kay

Danny,I have received, as you can imagine, many posts defending your work. All are posted and I have responded and posted to my blog.In addition, I am getting questions about your comment that I asked to be a beneficiary or benefit from 12for12K in ANY WAY. Danny, that never happened. You and I talked about how nonprofits could apply to be a part of 12for12K and you said there was no process for selection and that you were not considering any more organizations. That was the extent of our conversation. I have a would NEVER ask to be beneficiary or to work for 12for12K effort.Just to clarify.Barbara

Hey Danny - This is so disturbing to me that someone feels the need to knock this. You've been making a huge difference for these organizations. As one of the charities you helped [@sharestrength], you not only helped us financially but more importantly, in my opinion, is you helped me see the power that social media can have for nonprofits and how to build relationships to rally good people around a cause. Thanks for doing what you're doing.

I'm struggling to understand where you are coming from on this Barbara. Are you in a round- a-bout way saying if you were involved, you would have done a better job? If that's the case, just say it and lets move on. You are passively aggressively bickering on about this. Be professional and say what you are thinking.For the record, I wont be using your company for any philanthropy work go forward, seeing as how this whole situation was brought to light and handled. I was one of the corporate sponsors in Danny's campaign and for 2010 part of our business plan involves philanthropy work in the community.

Barbara, While I applaud you in taking a more transparent role in this space by allowing all comments to be visible on your site and making the effort to respond here to Danny's post, I feel your message is going to overshadow the attempts. I wonder what would happen if you called maya culpa and threw your hands up as getting this completely wrong, apologizing for being so unprofessional with your personal digs and asking for input on how to do it right in social. Humility is a very difficult thing... but I absolutely believe it will be your only way out of this. You made a mistake. We all make them... but what's far more important is what do you when you screw up... tyring to fudge over this is not the answer. Trying to delfect or justify is not the answer. Owning a small piece of this to save face isn't going to work either. The fact that a flurry of people who felt they couldn't get their comments posted on your site... copied/pasted them here on Danny's is evident that people in this space have a voice and they are going to use it. Another clear characteristic of a lot of us in this space is that we all believe we can change the world. And we're demonstrating that with user generated groups such as 12for12k - there is no big business here. No big sponsorship. Just a bunch of people committed to doing our part. I'm reassured by your attempts but all the way in or all the way out Barbara. This space won't allow you to sit on the fence. S.

Hello Danny,Congratulations on developing a community that cares so much about you, that they have commented here so strongly in support of you.Oh, and "thank you" for the advice you gave me yesterday; in private and away from the public gaze.

Barbara. What have you done besides complain? Danny has an enormous community demonstrating to you right now the amazing work he has done.What have YOU done?

Danny, way to take the high road and to set the record straight. I am 100% behind you and your vision for 12for12k. I'm honored to be a part of this effort alongside so many incredible and talented people. It all comes down to the amazing difference that one person can make. You are the one who brought us all together and inspired us to act. You are the one who led the charge and who keeps us engaged and enthusiastic. You are the one that helps us see that by working together, we can create a wave of positive change.It's not solely about the money raised, although I echo what others have said - while we may not have reached our goals, each participating organization had more than they did prior to the efforts of 12for12k. I see something bigger than that, though, which has also been referenced by others: people have taken the time to learn about these charities and what they do, they have found ways to educate others about the issues, and they have found ways to act that transcend financial donations. I also think that allowing people to give as much as they can afford is a positive approach. It doesn't make people feel guilty for not being able to afford a larger donation and it makes them feel good about giving what they can, like any amount is still valued.We're all still learning as 12for12k evolves, and we have some beautiful minds refining efforts and making improvements. We're all volunteers, which means that sometimes it can be difficult to implement in-depth changes depending on what is going on in people's lives at the time. We're trying something new, something without a blueprint, so in my opinion it's acceptable and even encouraged to try new ways of doing things and not relying solely on "This is the way to do it, period." How else can we learn?And for the record, I think they new picture is great! Cheers!

As a co-founder of MomitForward (formerly) I am baffled. Simple baffled. I wonder if she thinks MY profile was raised as I worked with 12for12K and Yehu.org? Because if it was... HELLO! It means others know what I am committed to?? Sheesh.

Just in case it never makes it or is deleted over there:Ms. Talisman,While I sincerely appreciate the fact that you can write that fund raising is about cultivation, awareness, education and then giving. I think you will find that the 12for12k project is aware of this, and is one of the things it is doing through efforts online and offline. While it may not be raising hundreds of thousands, or millions for that matter, for any given charity as of yet, I don’t think you will find any one of the organizations disheartened by the efforts put forth. As well, I sincerely appreciate the fact that you can voice your view as to why this is such a failure in that aspect, though many will disagree with you.What I do have a hard time appreciating are the personal attacks, which are unmerited in this medium, and the fact that you are attempting to point out what is so wrong with what 12for12k is trying to build and accomplish, yet you yourself have yet to offer any true ideas, methods, or solutions that are viable, sustainable, growth enabled and work via the social media sphere to build upon. I imagine if Danny were to have given you the funds raised thus far, you would be more forth coming with that information.See what 12for12k is doing, is taking the money to the charities, non-profits and organizations. It is not taking a larger piece of the pie that what the organizations receive, in fact I don’t know of it taking any cut of that pie since the funds go right to the organizations, and not to 12for12k, Danny or anyone else involved. As stated on the web site, less than 10% for administrative costs – which any and all organizations have.What is your take when you do your consulting for charities and non-profits? 10% or less? 20% 40% A set fee? Maybe the reason $2000, $5000, $15,000+ sounds so weak to you is that is far less than you would charge for your ideas, methods and solutions to the organizations you consult for?A much more effective position on your part would have been to realize there is a group of people, businesses and other entities that are growing in size, banding together sharing a common goal. That the community is not about self, it is not about being conceited, it is not about only identifying the problems. It is about global change, which has to start somewhere, and that somewhere is with 12for12k. It is about community, social sharing and giving. It is about awareness and coming together to learn, change and grow as a group, as a community, as a global united group.All of that has to start somewhere, just as you had to start somewhere in your efforts 20+ years ago. I am sure your first fund raising efforts raised into the hundreds of thousands, or even millions, right? No, you had to start somewhere too.My personal view? You are scared. I am sure you charge a very nice sum to consult with entities on fund raising and how to go big. Now, here is this growing force, a community of volunteers doing it for the love of helping, that is basically supporting these organizations free of charge. I can understand how that scares you, your competition is not charging and is growing at a very fast pace.Unfortunately for you, the personal attacks have made a blemish on you to that growing force, that community and imagine how the organizations that 12for12k support feel towards you now. Do you think any of them will decide to “go big” with your organization seeing that personal attacks are your nature? That you could not appreciate the grass-roots level of starting something new using new media? Things to think about going forward.

Always causing trouble, aren't you, Danny? Haha. She was definitely out of line in her comments and I can't believe she'd discount all of your hard work. She may get a lot of views for that post, but good luck getting us to come back.Keep up all of your good work with 12for12k and as you can see from this comments section, we've got your back!My comment that probably won't get past moderation:"I've never read your blog before and don't really intend to again after this, but I was very disappointed when reading this post as I believe it is a complete misuse of a professional blog such as your own. If you had approached this in a way that generated discussion on how we could help Danny make 12for12k a greater success, that would have been perfectly acceptable and I'm sure Danny would appreciate your willingness to try and help improve his venture.But, let's face it, you didn't do that. Yes, you are entitled to your opinion, but it's completely unnecessary for you to attack the 12for12k campaign in this manner. As everyone else said, how can you call someone out for "not giving enough to charity?" I understand you consider yourself an expert in your field, and, you may be right, but most experts aren't out to belittle everyone else, they truly want to see others succeed and rise up to their level.I could go on, but won't since this likely won't make it out of moderation. Hopefully you've learned something from this post and best of luck in your own fundraising endeavors."

Dear Danny,The power of the internet – expressing your opinion. Your idea is a good one and I am truly sorry that I didn't mention that. I am delighted many of your supporters have responded to my blog post. And I know your supporters are out there. What I want to know is for all those folks why have the results not been better? I believe for the 1,000s if not millions of followers of 12for12K, it should have been more successful. Even in $10 increments….I believe if we are going to launch social media fundraising then let’s launch it and go big. I pulled stats directly from your website. I appreciate very much your clarification of the results. So updating the website would be a great start to letting everyone know of the success.I believe, if we continue to believe that raising $1,200 for one organization is acceptable - through a world-wide social media effort - we are selling our work short. You referred to the effort as “begging” for $10 at a time. For this to be successful we need volume to succeed. I highly recommend Bill Shore’s (Founder of Share our Strength) book, The Cathedral Within, where he talks about moving beyond hand to mouth fundraising (annual fund, small donations) and truly invest in our communities, people and organizations to make a difference by changing the way we position our organizations and ask for money.Nonprofits change lives and save lives. Nonprofit work and the people/communities they support are worth more than $10. Social media needs to be a part of an overall marketing strategy – not an end unto itself. Tweetathons are points of entry for donors – how we engage them BEFORE they make their gift determines how much they will engage in giving AND thus engage others. Fundraising is not effective if we only ask for money and don’t educate and inform.The work of @GlobalPatriot is the level all nonprofits should be working toward. We need to think big to be big. Philanthropists like Mark Lovett making a difference and significant impact by putting their commitment, resources and money on the line. Some of your supporters asked for my solutions. Use them or don’t as you like. I believe you are in process of harnessing the power of the people for good. Let’s make it big – ask for what we want and need and get it to make a difference in the world for our friends, neighbors, communities. Because through that effort, we can change the world and must believe this is true – or there is no hope.--Make social media an integral part of communications and marketing for any nonprofit and especially those chosen by 12for12K. That is why I noted which of the nonprofits selected by 12for12K had a social media presence or not. Given your expertise in this area, offering your skills to these nonprofits to help them build a social media presence within the human and financial resources they have BEFORE they launch would help them help the campaign and see better results and raise awareness. --Create a social media campaign around each charity BEFORE the fundraising starts. Create the buzz of awareness for their current supporters and prospects out in the world you are giving them access to.--Ask for what you want - $10 is too little. In some donors minds they ask, "What could an organization do with $10?" Equate the ask - which you did - to something the charity can do with the donation. But to say we want $10 from 1,200 is asking too little - who may or may not be engaged or aware of the organization until you asked. --People give to people – 12for12K supporters have the ability to raise significant funds from their networks by helping raise awareness and money. Make sure the organizations are able, have the skills and willingness to rally their supporters in the same way. Danny, I appreciate your work and the exchange. We have to believe we can make the world a better place by acting. You have acted.

I'm not sure if my comment on Barbara's post will surface from moderation, so I've pasted it below. As you know Danny, I'm on your side 100%.----------------I'm appalled that you have the nerve to talk shit about somebody who is doing amazing good in this world, rather than recognize the amazing good he is doing.What are you doing Barbara? Complaining? I've had two interactions (direct or indirect) with you (ever). Once at the Twestival in Chicago a few weeks ago and yesterday night when I read Danny's post (and then your post).Both interactions with you were simply you complaining. At the Twestival it was about Summer for Social Good not raising enough money and now it's about Danny not raising enough money.What are you doing, other than complaining? These people are dedicated to helping others, not taking them down.Let's try and help each other out, Barbara, eh? Making a difference (of ANY size) is a hell out of a lot better than not making a difference.

Dannygood response and sorry for the sour experience. you are doing much good! you continue to represent and model a new kind of leadership and business promotional model that includes a broad group who benefit. that is working toward a business model that both sustains and accomplishes business objectives, sets the example for others to duplicate, and benefits worthy causes... I can't think of a better one.peace & blessingsJay

Hi Danny (and everyone else), I completely agree with Shannon's comment that Barbara's post demonstrates her inadequate understanding of social media. So Barbara (if you read this), allow me to break down the word "social media" for you:Social- –adjective1. pertaining to, devoted to, or characterized by friendly companionship or relations: a social club.2. seeking or enjoying the companionship of others; friendly; sociable; gregarious.3. of, pertaining to, connected with, or suited to polite or fashionable society: a social event. Media–noun1. a pl. of medium.2. (usually used with a plural verb) the means of communication, as radio and television, newspapers, and magazines, that reach or influence people widely: The media are covering the speech tonight. So if social means forming friendly relationships and media means communicating with the world through radio, tv, news, Internet then social media must combine the two to mean forming friendly relationships and using those relationships to communicate something.Barbara's first mistake is that she dropped the ball on the whole "friendly" thing-- but she hit the nail on the head with communicating something; what she communicated is that she doesn't realize what one small blog post can spiral into--any future partnership she might try to enter into- can Google her and find this post and her post-- and see what ensued (which appears to be negative for her).The positive side is now I am aware of the great work that you are doing with 12for12k and can show my support for you!