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April 10, 2008

'American Idol's' Fund-Raising Psychology

Wednesday’s broadcast of the fund-raising show Idol Gives Back is expected to raise more than $100-million for charities such as Global Fund and Save the Children.

The episode prompted the anonymous fund raiser who writes Random Thoughts on Life and Work to question what motivates people to give.

“Is it the cause, the pitch, or the show that leads people to give? In development we often quote the phrase, ‘People give to people not to projects.’ But how does that play out in this case?” the blogger wrote. “Are people giving because of the images they see on TV or because of the celebrity pitch?”

Let us know what you think by clicking on the comment link below this post.

— Peter Panepento

Thursday April 10, 2008 | Permalink

Comments

1. People give to people. American Idol has done an outstanding job marketing this show. The viewers relate to the contestants because each week you learn about the contestants’ lives. You are no longer watching a TV show. Instead, you feel like you are watching one of your friends or family members. As a result, you are giving back to help their cause. Also, people give to success. American Idol is trendy, hip, “the in” place to be. People want to part of the action. They want to take part in the success. It is all about behaviorial psychology.

   — Susan    Apr 10, 02:16 PM    #

2. I think shows like American Idol has become more than just an image, but a collective gathering of people to cheer on ordinary individuals who are trying to make a success for themselves; it kind of follows the whole “American Dream” concept. It’s very addicting and inspiring. And so, on many levels, I think that people can relate to their own successes, trials and tribulations and what it means to “be there for someone”. With this kind of energy, its no wonder that people are in the spirit of giving to people who are in other places in their lives, trying to make it, whatever that may mean for them.

   — Ken D. Grunke - Pillars    Apr 14, 02:50 PM    #

3. I am particularly pleased to see such social responsibility on the part of the Idol cast, producers, and fans. I am especially pleased that those very small contributions to such worthy causes are celebrated along with the huge gifts by donors.
   After fundraising for 30 years in the faith-based, healthcare, and non-profit industries, a “truism” exists – Make people aware of the need and it will be met. American Idol has packaged their product and service lines at the heart of the Pop Culture and the Pop Culture has responded graciously! Well done, American Idol! You have demonstrated once again that People give to People. You have my vote and you are a class act!

   — Jay Tatum    Apr 14, 04:44 PM    #

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