Backtracking on Fees
Bank of America’s much-maligned proposal to levy a $5 monthly fee on customers for debit card-use is no more. Now, the media is busy talking about the growing power of the consumer advocate. The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times both point to “consumer backlash” and complaints. CBS News cites the work of one woman. And The New York Times asks—is the web amplifying consumers’ voices? Good question.
Mind the Gap
Education policy wonks were out in full force this week responding to the release of the Nation’s Report Card by the National Center for Education Statistics. From 2009 to 2011, the average math and reading scores among fourth and eighth graders increased by only one point. While the achievement gap between White and Black/Latino students narrowed slightly in reading, scores in math show little has changed since 2009. Education advocates are touting these results as more evidence of our need for reform.
Social Media Best Practices
Craig Newmark (of Craigslist fame) is spreading the word about his new (and oh-so-purdy) infographic on “How the Top 50 Nonprofits Do Social Media.” In a guest post on Beth Kanter’s blog, he offers three tips on maximizing the benefits of social media: involve board members; keep public info on your organization up to date; and develop a compelling and brief pitch to “sell” your nonprofit to others. We’d add one thing—be sure to stop and think about your progress and plan for future steps.
