Online social networking is starting to take on a larger role in nonprofit development and it looks like YouTube is working to plug into that growing niche market with the release of the YouTube Nonprofit Program. Sharing videos is a great way to engage your site's viewers. Let's face it, pictures are nice, but moving pictures are even better. At least when you are trying to convey a message that can't fully be captured with proper lighting. The ability to share videos not just on your organization's site, but also throughout the already massive YouTube social networking scene could provide huge for getting more people involved in campaigns. Here's what YouTube has to say about their program:

Does your organization have a compelling story to tell? Do you want to connect with your supporters, volunteers, and donors but don't have the funds to launch expensive outreach campaigns? YouTube can help. Video is a powerful way to show your organization's impact and needs, and with a designated "Nonprofit" channel on YouTube, you can deliver your message to the world's largest online video community.

The program is free, but you do have to have 501(c)3 status. All nonprofits that sign up get branding capabilities and increased uploading capacity, rotation of their videos in the "Promoted Videos" areas throughout the site, the option to drive fundraising through a Google Checkout "Donate" button, and the first 300 nonprofits get a free video camera. Not a bad deal.

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