Wikipedia for Non-Profits: How to Share Your Mission and Impact with the World

In today's digital age, visibility is paramount for non-profit organizations.

Wikipedia, the world's largest free online encyclopedia, offers a unique platform to share your mission and the positive impact you're making on the world. A well-written Wikipedia article can not only educate potential donors and volunteers but also establish your organization as a credible leader in your field.

However, securing a Wikipedia page for your non-profit requires understanding the platform's guidelines and editorial process. Here's how to leverage Wikipedia to amplify your organization's voice:

Meeting Wikipedia's Notability Standards

Wikipedia editors hold articles to a high standard of notability. This means your organization needs to demonstrate significant coverage in independent, reliable sources. These sources can include:

• Major news publications (online and print)
• Scholarly journals
• Government reports
• Documentaries or feature stories focused on your work

Awards and recognition from established institutions also strengthen your case for notability.

Building a Strong Case for Your Wikipedia Page

Before drafting a Wikipedia article, gather evidence of your notability. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Organizational history and impact: Highlight your founding year, mission statement, and key achievements.
• Financial transparency: Demonstrate financial stability through annual reports or audits.
• Geographical reach: Outline your local, national, or international presence.

Crafting a Compelling Wikipedia Article

Once you've established notability, it's time to draft your article. Remember, Wikipedia prioritizes neutral language and factual information. Here are some key elements:

• Engaging introduction: Start with a concise overview of your organization's mission, history, and impact.
• Mission and programs: Clearly outline your organization's core mission and the programs you implement to achieve it.
• Impact and achievements: Showcase your impact through quantifiable results and success stories. Use data, testimonials, and case studies to support your claims.
• Financial information: Provide a brief summary of your financial structure, highlighting funding sources and how donations are used.
• Leadership and governance: Introduce your board of directors and key leadership figures.
• Citations: Every claim in your article needs to be supported by a verifiable source. Link to reputable online sources within the text using proper citation formats.

Important Considerations

• Avoid self-promotion: Wikipedia is not a platform for marketing or fundraising. Focus on providing factual information and highlighting your impact.
• Neutral language: Maintain a neutral tone throughout the article. Avoid biased statements or subjective opinions.
• Conflict of interest: It's generally discouraged for individuals directly affiliated with the organization to create or edit the Wikipedia page. Consider recruiting a neutral editor familiar with Wikipedia's guidelines.

Getting Your Article Published

Once your draft is complete, you can submit it for review on the Wikipedia "Articles for Creation" page. Be prepared for editors to request additional information or suggest edits to ensure your article meets Wikipedia's guidelines.

Maintaining Your Wikipedia Page

Remember, Wikipedia is a dynamic platform. As your organization evolves, you'll need to update your page with new information about programs, achievements, and leadership changes. Regularly monitor your page for edits and ensure the information remains current and accurate.

The Power of Wikipedia for Non-Profits

By strategically leveraging Wikipedia, you can significantly increase your organization's visibility and credibility. A well-crafted Wikipedia page can be a valuable tool for attracting donors, volunteers, and partners who share your mission. Remember, the process requires patience, adherence to Wikipedia's principles, and a commitment to providing accurate and verifiable information.