For the sake of posterity, I thought I’d compile a list documenting the recent spate of viral charity campaigns we’ve seen recently. These are a new craze which typically last a month or so (sometimes longer) and represent a new wave of charity activism.
1. Movember
This one has been going for years. Participants don’t shave their upper lips for a month in return for sponsorship. I actually do this myself.
2. #nomakeupselfie
Participants take a photo of themselves without any makeup on in return for sponsorship.
3. ThumbsUpForStephen
Participants take a photo of themselves doing a thumbs up in memory of Stephen Sutton, to raise awareness of the Teenage Cancer Trust.
4. Christmas Jumper Day
Participants wear a christmas jumper in return for sponsorship. Charity: Save the Children.
5. Ice Bucket Challenge
Participants dump a bucket of ice cold water on themselves to raise awareness of the ALS Association. Features an added “nomination” element where the participant picks two other people to do it subsequently.
6. Egg Crack Party
Multiple participants crack eggs on each other’s heads, raising awareness of egg donation programs across the UK.
7. Adoption Fakeout ’14
Parents secretly film themselves telling their children that they are adopted. Raising awareness for adoption agencies in the US.
8. Will Selfie
Will Self takes a photo of himself in a series of more exotic and dangerous locations, determined by how much money he is able to raise in 24 hours on IndieGoGo.
9. Don’t Get Done, Get Domination
Participants change their profile picture on Twitter/Facebook to that of television presenter Dominic Littlewood. When they are asked to explain this by someone, that person is considered “Dominated” and has to change their own picture. Raising awareness for anti-fraud schemes.
10. #PastLives
Participants must travel back in time and tag a picture of themselves during a previous time in their lives. The National Archives host all the entries and pick a winner each month. Promoting genealogical research.
11. Viral Campaign Campaign
Participants must dump a bucket of ice-cold moustaches on their heads whilst not wearing any makeup and wearing a Christmas jumper, before challenging a friend to do the same. All in aid of Sports Relief I think.
And I think that’s all of them. If I’ve missed any out, please let me know!