In 1919 William Randolph Hearst built his fairyland castle by the sea in San Simeon, California. Once a fabulous playground for the rich and famous, it is now one of the top tourist destinations in California and a National Historic Landmark.
Since the Hearst Corporation donated the property to the the State of California in the 1950s, almost one million visitors a years have oohed and aahed at the incredible architecture, art, and antiques once enjoyed by the likes of Winston Churchill, Charles Lindbergh, and Charlie Chaplin. The 115-room main house, guesthouses, pools, and 8 acres of cultivated gardens have been extraordinarily maintained by a few small non-profit organizations.
Friends of Hearst Castle is one of them.
Friends of Hearst Castle is a private non-profit that supports the Castle’s ongoing efforts to provide educational and preservation programs. From fulfilling the dreams of children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, to providing a day of fun for underprivileged kids to paint alongside local artists, FOHC is doing amazing things daily to keep the legacy of the Castle alive and well.
Mr. Hearst built his empire by embracing each new form of media as it emerged. From print to radio to television, as well as newsreels and even comic strips, Hearst understood that people get their information from a wide variety of sources. Friends of Hearst Castle is continuing in that tradition by embracing the newest form of sharing info – social media.
I’m working with Friends of Hearst Castle to show them how social media can benefit their organization. With constant foot traffic, a beautiful atmosphere, and support from Hearst Castle and the State Parks themselves – Friends of Hearst Castle has enormous potential to connect with new donors, increase awareness for their programs, and give the Castle a “human” voice.
I have tons of ideas on how they could best use social media, but I’m also curious about yours. What do you think Mr. Hearst would think of Twitter & Facebook? Would you follow him on Twitter? Would he be all up on it like Brian Dresher of USA Today? Most importantly, how do you think he would want Friends of Hearst Castle to use social media?
I’ll let you know how things develop as we try new ideas and nudge FOHC into the social media universe. Stay tuned!
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Tags: crowdsourcing, Friends of Hearst Castle, Hearst Castle, nonprofits, social media
I actually remember that from Best Back Yards Ever episode on HGTV. That is awesome.
You do? That IS awesome. You must come and see the Castle in real life. It is enchanting!!!
Kerriebrynn, awesome story! I would love to chat with you about the things you are doing for them and maybe offer some advice of my own! Write me @ jason@smallact.com,