Last weekend, Tennessee was hit hard by the greatest rainfall in recorded history, causing a devastating flood through Nashville and areas nearby. While this tragedy has been covered on news stations, social media has provided timely insight into the disaster, and has been the main platform used to donate items to its victims.Members of the community have shared their experiences through blogging, tweeting, uploading photos and uploading videos online. Blogs have come from homeowners who have watched all of their belongings drown in the water, as well as those employed in the area worried about a source of income. Tweets describe real time feelings about what is being witnessed, and are sent out for friends and loved ones to read. Photos and videos provide a visual of the damaged roads, buildings and cars.
Nashville is home to country music, and many country music stars are using their social media networks to raise money, and donate items to those who are suffering in Tennessee. Brad Paisley, Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift and many others have been actively tweeting how and where to send your donations. The three of them combined have nearly two million followers, and with their tweets they are reaching an enormous audience solely through social media.
Social media is mostly recognized for sharing news, videos and connecting to an online community. Like the earthquakes in Haiti, the tragedy in Nashville proves that social media can have an even stronger purpose, by helping millions of people in need when utilized correctly.
To donate to Nashville, click HERE.
Abby Draper is the Manager of Social Media. Contact her at abby@maroonpr.com.
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