Facebook helps Basin Electric Brave the Shave
Basin Electric turns to social media to get the word out about its St. Baldrick's event.
Basin Electric Power Cooperative
- February 23, 2009
originally broadcast by KFYR TV
Click on the link to watch the video: Facebook helps Basin Electric Brave the Shave
It started a few years ago as a social networking site for college students and has since exploded onto the mainstream. Facebook has rapidly gained popularity, bringing different generations together on one site. It's also been an avenue for "groups," a section of Facebook that is aimed at different popular topics and fads. And that is exactly where one local fundraising effort has taken its campaign.
It's about time for Chris VandeVenter to get a haircut, except he isn't going to be making his way to the barber any time soon.
"Everyone gives me a hard time on how thick my hair is, so I decided it's time to step up and take on the dare," said Chris VandeVenter, who is shaving his head for the first time.
In fact, he is letting his hair grow out for Basin Electric's "Brave the Shave" campaign to raise money for the St. Baldrick's Foundation. St. Baldrick's is a foundation that raises money for children with cancer by having their participants shave their heads.
"It was so much fun watching everyone get their heads shaved and I missed out on being a part of that," said VandeVenter.
To help get the word out, Basin Electric has taken its campaign online this year. They are using social networking sites like Facebook to help reach well beyond the borders of North Dakota.
"St. Baldrick's Foundation is wonderful," said Andrea Blowers, a Basin Electric staff writer. "The cause is broadly felt. We felt that using Facebook and social media in general couldn't be passed up."
By developing a page for their event, they are able to post videos, new releases and news updates. It allows their "fans" to stay up-to-date on the progress of the fundraising. That is especially important for those living outside of the state.
"My husband in particular has family in Norway and they have chosen to support the event by becoming a fan of our St. Baldrick's page," added Blowers.
And it's that common bond that is encouraging new people to step up and take action.
"Cancer has touched my family and I've been really active with the American Cancer Society and Relay 4 Life for a number of years," said VandeVenter. "This is just a unique way to take it to the next level."
Just doing his part to help children dealing with a deadly disease.
The Country Morning Today team is also participating. If we raise $1,500, I, Chris Gallegos, will shave my head live on Saint Patrick's day.
To donate, we encourage you to log onto your local NBC North Dakota News website and click on the Country Morning Today homepage. Then click on the icon that says "Brave the Shave" on the upper right-hand corner to make a donation under our name.
Headquarters
1717 East Interstate Avenue
Bismarck, ND 58503-0564 USA
Phone: 701.223.0441
Basin Electric Power Cooperative will provide cost-effective wholesale energy along with products and services that support and unite rural America.
