All it may take to reach out to your supporters and increase your chance of generating action is six to fifteen seconds.

Vine is a video microblogging platform developed by Twitter that allows users to create six second looping video clips that can be shared with their followers and the world.

And recently, Instagram has added their own 15-second video capability to its popular image sharing service.

Whichever service you prefer, both can benefit your nonprofit and generate action for your cause.

Vine

You’re probably thinking that six seconds of a looping video might be more suited for Grumpy Cat than nonprofits, but the New York Humane Society has found a way to combine cat videos (unofficially the Internet’s favorite thing) and social good.



The NYHS posted the above video of cat Parker, who was adopted by a permanent owner who saw him first in the six-second Vine video the New York Humane Society posted.

But even for nonprofits who don’t focus on our furry friends, Vine can utilize the power of social networks for social good.

In a partnership with Mashable, (RED) set a world record for the most Vine videos created for social good by having users showing red items or speaking out for the (RED) cause in their videos. Here’s one of the videos featuring electronic music producer David Guetta.



Instagram

Since its video feature launched on June 20, brands have flocked to Instagram to promote their causes, and nonprofits are no exception.

This video, from charity: water, was posted on Instagram to show how a woman transports water to her home. Prior to charity: water’s work, the woman had to walk for miles to obtain clean water. The video, in less than 15 seconds, sums up the charity’s mission and is able to provide a concrete example of the work they do.

Similarly, UNICEF USA holds a large event on Halloween each year where trick-or-treaters are enlisted to raise money for the charity during their nightly jaunt in lieu of candy. This video features their staff assembling the boxes while also previewing their Celebrity Ambassador announcement.

Fifteen seconds isn’t too short to spread your nonprofit’s message. How is your nonprofit using Vine or Instagram to generate action?