In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the symbiosis between artificial intelligence and non-profit organizations might just be the boost the latter need, and Professor Victoria LaPoe from the University of Cincinnati is tapping into this potential. LaPoe, who, prior to her current role, served at Ohio University, is exploring how AI-driven messaging could prove instrumental for non-profits, particularly in amplifying their fundraising and adoption efforts.
Her inspiration to merge technology with altruism was, in part, influenced by Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback and a fellow LSU alumnus, whose foundation's mantra is a succinct "Do good", something that stuck with LaPoe during her time volunteering with the Athens County Humane Society, while she observed the numerous challenges nonprofits face, according to an article published by UC News.
LaPoe's approach redefines the lens through which journalism can be viewed—it's not merely a vehicle for hard news but also a platform for solutions and public good. This holistic perspective allows her to leverage research to pinpoint deficiencies within communities and, consequently, address them. "People think journalism is defined only as hard news, but there is also solutions-journalism and journalism for the public good," LaPoe told the University of Cincinnati. She emphasized the importance of applying research to tackle real-world issues.
This initiative could represent a paradigm shift for nonprofits, enabling them to harness AI for a variety of applications, from bolstering their communication to maximizing outreach and engagement the aim is to augment both their resources and their realm of influence in doing good, and if LaPoe's inquiry bears fruit, it could set a precedent for other sectors to follow, melding tech and philanthropy into a formidable alliance.
