Facebook Has the Power to Influence and Raise Awareness

Hello friends,

I was watching the news this morning and I saw a story that was very inspiring. The story was also a great social media example and I thought it would be perfect to blog about this week.

"Battling Bare" is a wonderful campaign for a worthy cause. The website provides readers with the mission statement. It states,

The mission of Battling Bare, Inc. is to provide a network of support for the spouses, children and family and members who silently struggle to carry the burden of PTSD with beloved Service Members. By creating a safe place to band together and share our stories, we will raise awareness about PTSD and create positive programs of true healing for families

Battling Bare Inc. was born on Facebook. The idea for the campaign came from women that wanted to unite army wives and build awareness for soldiers with PTSD. The CEO Ashley Wise, first started the Facebook page after she realized what an issue PTSD was for returning soldiers. She submitted the first photo displaying her naked back with the saying that has created a national movement. Army wives and family members from all over the U.S have joined together to support their soldiers. Each picture features the women with the Battling Bare pledge.   

"Broken by battle,

Wounded by war,

I love you forever,

To you this I swore:

I will quiet your silent screams,

Help heal your shattered soul

Until once again, my love, you are whole."

I was so moved by this campaign and I believe that these women are making such a difference. Prior to watching the story on the news, I had never heard of Battling Bare. The reason why this story is relevant to my PR social media class, is because the campaign owes its success to social media. The organization has such a brave and inspiring message and they have been able to share that message with millions of people through Facebook. Battling Bare's Facebook page has allowed people to connect and share their important stories. This is a cause that is worth fighting for, and social media has provided a platform to influence others and raise awareness.

Not only does Battling Bare have a Facebook page, they also have a Twitter account, a Pinterest board, a blog, and a beautiful website. I would say this campaign is effectively using social media!

You should check out the website, the images and stories are so powerful.

Until next time,

Katie