You’re already making a difference, but are you reaching all the people who need your help? That’s where marketing comes in. No, not the cringy, pushy, “buy our stuff” kind of marketing. I’m talking about the kind that helps you spread the word about the incredible support and resources you offer. So, how do you know when it's time to ramp up your marketing efforts?
TL;DR:If your organization isn’t seeing steady growth in outreach or you’re hearing too much “I wish I’d known about you sooner,” it’s time to step up your marketing. And don’t worry, there are plenty of free and sliding-scale services to help you along the way.
1. People Say, “I Wish I Knew About This Sooner.”
The most frustrating thing for any organization is hearing from people who finally find you—after they’ve been struggling for months. If folks are telling you they wish they had known about your dementia or Parkinson’s programs earlier, it’s a big red flag. You might have amazing services like caregiver support, educational resources, or free fitness classes, but if no one knows about them, are they really helping?
Solution:
Boost your visibility with a clear, authentic marketing strategy. No big budgets? No problem. Free or sliding-scale marketing resources are available to help get your message out there.
CTA: Ready to reach more people? Ask about our free and sliding-scale services to get started.
2. Your Website Is...Well, Let's Just Say It Hasn’t Aged Well.
You may have the heart of a cutting-edge organization, but if your website looks like it was made in 2002, potential clients might not take you seriously. Many Parkinson’s or dementia organizations are small and focused on providing direct support, but that doesn’t mean your online presence should fall by the wayside. A professional website can help you engage caregivers, patients, and donors.
Solution:
A website refresh can be a game changer. Whether it's adding a blog with helpful resources or just a design update, these changes can improve credibility and outreach.
Pro tip: Keep it simple—clear navigation and updated info can work wonders.
3. No One Knows What You Do... or They Think They Do
Ever been to a party where someone tells you, “Oh, I know exactly what you do!” and then proceeds to get everything wrong? If that happens with your organization, it’s a sign that your messaging is unclear. Maybe you’re known for your adult day health centers, but your caregiver education and support services go unnoticed. Or, you’re providing awesome online exercise classes for Parkinson’s patients, but people still think you only do research.
Solution:
Clarify your messaging. Make sure your website, social media, and flyers spell out all your services. Avoid jargon and speak directly to the people you’re trying to help.
Want more families and caregivers to find your dementia or Parkinson’s services? Let’s talk about our sliding-scale marketing solutions today!
4. Your Social Media Feels Like a Ghost Town
Sure, you’re posting, but are people engaging? When you post an update about your newest dementia caregiver program or Parkinson’s support event, you want to see comments, shares, and maybe even a few hearts. If your social media accounts are quiet, it’s a sign your content isn’t hitting the mark or reaching the right people.
Solution:
Time for a content revamp! Share stories from caregivers, success stories from your programs, or tips for managing care. People love relatable content, especially when it feels like it’s speaking directly to them.
CTA: Feeling overwhelmed by social media? We offer sliding-scale marketing services to help you engage more effectively.
5. Your Referrals Are Coming From the Same Few Places
Don’t get me wrong, loyal referral partners are great, but if 90% of your referrals are from one or two sources, it could be time to diversify. You want a healthy mix of doctors, support groups, and even other community organizations pointing people your way.
Solution:
Expand your referral network by creating targeted outreach. This could be as simple as developing relationships with local Parkinson’s or dementia support groups that haven’t yet tapped into your resources. Marketing doesn’t have to be a cold call; it can be about building real connections.
6. You’re Too Reliant on Word of Mouth
Word of mouth is powerful, but it’s not always predictable. If your marketing plan consists mainly of waiting for people to talk about you, then you might be limiting your reach. While word of mouth is great, it works best when combined with other marketing efforts like digital campaigns or community partnerships.
Solution:
Use marketing to amplify word of mouth. Run awareness campaigns that encourage people to share your content, host community events, and promote them through targeted digital marketing.
7. You Feel Stretched Thin with Too Many Hats
Running a small Parkinson’s or dementia organization often means you’re wearing many hats—director, caregiver, accountant, and sometimes, marketer. If you feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done, it might be time to get some help with your marketing.
Solution:
Hiring a full-time marketing team might be out of reach, but working with a freelance marketer or a sliding-scale agency could take some of the load off your shoulders. That way, you can focus on what you do best—helping people.
8. Your Donations or Funding Sources Are Drying Up
If you rely on grants, donations, or fundraisers, a lack of visibility could be limiting your funding. Donors want to know their money is going to an organization that’s making an impact—and if they’ve never heard of you, they’re less likely to donate.
Solution:
Tell your story! Use your marketing to share the incredible impact you’re making in the Parkinson’s or dementia community. Highlight your successes and share real stories of how your organization has changed lives.
Marketing doesn’t have to feel like a burden or an obligation. For small Parkinson’s or dementia organizations, it’s about connecting with the people who need you most. If you’re hearing, “I wish I’d known about this sooner,” or you feel like your social media is talking to crickets, it might be time to rethink your strategy.
Struggling to reach those who need your support most? Explore our free and sliding-scale marketing services to expand your impact.
Comments