The first-ever telethon in 1949 was a 16-hour television broadcast that raised the equivalent of about $11 million in today’s dollars. In the decades since, telethons have transformed the fundraising zeitgeist, with some of the most popular raising billions.
In our 25+ years of experience, we at AnswerNet have helped 10,000+ clients inform, adapt, and thrive. Today, we’re going to describe the 2024 reinvention of the telethon, and afterward, you’ll understand how you can embrace modern fundraising with our fundraising call center.
The Telethon Timeline
The classic Jerry Lewis-style TV telethon found its groove in the ‘70s and ‘80s, attracting bigger audiences across the world. With the advent of cable television and satellite broadcasting in the ‘90s, telethon heads found themselves adapting their mission to new mediums.
In 2008, the “Stand Up to Cancer” telethon aired simultaneously on multiple US networks, and within a few years, telethons were featured on both TV and the internet. In the decade since, telethons expanded to multi-platform streaming, social media, and even customized apps.
Modern Must-Haves
In 2024, the telethon tradition faces fresh change. Here are some features modern telethons can’t do without:
1. Full Digital Integration
A 2024 telethon’s success hinges on its accessibility, which means integration with all digital platforms including call, text, websites, apps, email, and more. At AnswerNet, we provide seamless cross-channel integration to drive donations from all sources.
2. Real-Time Interaction
The public’s attention span is shorter than ever, which means when someone participates in your telethon, they need feedback in real time. AnswerNet’s real-time fundraising call center support ensures social media, live chat, and telephone support without delay.
3. Mobile-First Fundraising
The use of mobile devices is at an all-time high, and to keep up, telethons need adaptations like mobile-friendly donation forms, text-to-donate options, and app-based interactions. AnswerNet has mastered mobile and can help you optimize your fundraising strategy accordingly.
4. Enhanced Data Analytics
Actionable, data-driven intelligence fuels fundraising center efforts. Through surveys, in-depth reporting, testimonials and more, we champion telethon targeting and strategy.
5. Post-Telethon Engagement
The donor relationship doesn’t end with the telethon. AnswerNet helps maintain crucial relationships through follow-up calls, thank-you messages, and regular updates on donation impact, fostering loyalty and encouraging future contributions.
