Social Media Increases Access to Information

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and SnapChat, seem to be the main social media sites that people use to gather and give information, regardless of how true or useful it is. For many, social media is their only connection to news and events in their community and around the globe. The great thing about social media is that anyone with a smartphone, computer, or tablet can access and use them.

There are a lot of uses for social media, both good and bad; here are a few:

• Connecting with old friends

• Engaging with family members

• Posting community events

• Sharing world news

• Posting positive messages

• Marketing businesses

• Promoting yourself and your brand

• Sharing of information

Getting people involved in community activities or events is not always easy, but is important for Housing Authorities. Passing out flyers works for some, but there is always the risk that they won’t see it, or will forget; however, using social media has helped to increase access to information and resources because it can be posted and reposted or shared without any cost.

According to an online survey, on average a person spends at least one hour each day on social media, especially Facebook, but it can be up to three or four hours per day. Because of this, social media is a great way to get needed information to the masses in a costly manner. Within Housing Communities, there has been an increase in resident engagement in community events and activities from using social media as a marketing tool. The Jobs Plus, ROSS, and FSS self-sufficiency programs have seen a 75% increase in calls for information and services from the use of social media. By posting flyers on Facebook and Twitter, the residents have become more engaged.

2020 has shown us that virtual meetings and marketing are going to be the new normal, at least for a while, and with it being an election year and census year, it is more important than ever to make sure our residents have facts about candidates, registering to vote, and voting options. Social media has also allowed housing to provide information on the importance of completing the census and helped remind residents of how it affects their future and the future of their community. We have seen a 20% increase in census completion and a 15% increase in questions regarding voting.

Basically, social media sites are great ways to keep people informed and help to increase engagement in community events and activities. Using Facebook and Twitter to promote activities and provide information has led to an increase in contact and engagement from our residents. Be on the lookout for updates and information on what’s happening in your community by following your agency on social media.