In the wake of tragedy, organizing relief efforts for victims, survivors and their family can quickly become complicated. Often overshadowed by the response from law enforcement, government agencies and corporations, non-profit community organizations also mobilize and begin assisting in aid as well.

Mostly consisting of volunteers and passionate leaders with little executive and logistics experience, these groups scramble to unite in their efforts and provide assistance. This happened following the Pulse Nightclub shooting and terror attack, where 49 people were killed during latin night at an Orlando gay club.

As LGBTQ and Latinx non-profits began to organize and mobilize, one unexpected and key asset help the groups find volunteers and aid across a national network. Leaders turned to Facebook in search of volunteers, especially for translators.

Nearly immediately, an organization of translators was mobilized and volunteered their services.

Social media can quickly access connections and spread calls to action, and former board president of the Orlando LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce explained how in the days, weeks and months following tragedy, social media became an important tool in building a coalition that remains active to this day.

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