Periscope, a new live streaming app owned by Twitter, offers nonprofits the unique opportunity to share moments with their donors that otherwise would have gone unshared. Like Meerkat, the app lets you stream live video on Twitter; but Periscope is more sophisticated: Twitter users can view, comment, share, and “like” your video. Then after 24 hours, your streamed video disappears.

You can use Periscope a number of ways to expose donors to your message. Broadcasting live from the field, documenting an event, or making an announcement—Periscope opens the door for a variety of interactions that draw your donors into a closer relationship with the work your nonprofit does. And can, if used effectively, give the donor a front-row seat to view their donation in action – that’s a powerful interaction with your donor that can’t be overlooked.

Another idea is for you to organize Q and A’s with your employees, use the tool for instant feedback on ideas, show your organization in action, and conduct interviews with beneficiaries. Using it strategically like this connects your audience in a new way: i.e. supporters get an inside look at your organization and operations.

The power of this medium is only beginning to be realized. But realize how profound this is – you’re providing real-time, live and tangible proof of the impact you are making. Just imagine connecting in this way with a donor over their phone while you are on the ground in Africa drilling a water well, allowing the donor to witness the excitement of their donation in action while you provide an instant play by play commentary. Pretty cool stuff!

Live streaming is a powerful tool, as it removes the seemingly prepackaged feel inherent to many nonprofit videos. Used wisely, Periscope can cultivate an atmosphere of engagement, transparency, and trust.

See Socialbrite for more.