One Nonprofit’s Journey to a Website
Exploring Content Management Systems
BGCME was hoping for a content management system (CMS) that would give them control of the backend of their site, making it easy for staff to update and maintain it. Together, we chose the WordPress CMS.
Compared to many other platforms, WordPress offers more flexibility in design and page layout and is a cost-effective option for nonprofits.
The organization was also concerned about security issues and redirect errors from their old URL. WordPress was the ideal choice for these reasons as well.
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Website vs. Facebook
Prior to collaborating with Hillhouse, the organization looked to Facebook as a potential solution for maintaining their online presence.
BGCME knew their staff was already familiar with Facebook and the organization had established internal procedures with team members to keep the platform updated. They believed this approach would be more economical—it would prevent BGCME from having to outsource web edits and avoid the need for staff to require special skills or training.
BGCME turned to Hillhouse for guidance, so we shared our concerns about relying solely on a Facebook page, and explained that a website would allow them to:
- Establish credibility
- Create a hub for all communication and marketing efforts
- Gain control of their brand content—now, as well as in the future
- Reach potential members, donors, and volunteers who are not on Facebook
- Take advantage of Google’s Ad Grant for nonprofits—a component of our recommended marketing efforts
Great Futures Start with a Solid Foundation
Once we made them comfortable that a website was the right choice, BGCME entrusted us to build a site for them with WordPress. We used content and graphic elements to create a simple, one-page site. Much like the nonprofit’s well-known tagline, “Great Futures Start Here,” their new site will give the organization the foundation they need to establish a trusted online presence. Now BGCME can share their website with existing and potential members, donors, and volunteers—making it easier than ever to take meaningful action to further the organization’s mission.
