Build Your Nonprofit Website with Google Sites
TL;DR:
- Google Sites works well for nonprofits without technical expertise or big budgets
- Templates make it easy to get started, with basic customization options available
- Add donation buttons by embedding payment links or using Google Forms
- Sites are mobile-responsive by default, but test across different devices
- Built-in SEO features help with visibility, though you may need extra promotion
- Integration with Google Workspace streamlines content management
Google Sites offers nonprofits a straightforward way to get online without needing web development skills or a large budget. It's particularly useful for smaller organizations that need a functional website quickly.
Getting Your Site Set Up
Start by browsing the available templates and pick one that fits your organization's style. The customization options are basic but cover the essentials: you can upload your logo, adjust colors to match your branding, and rearrange content blocks to highlight your mission and activities.
The interface works like a simplified version of Google Docs. You drag and drop elements where you want them, add text directly on the page, and upload images by clicking and selecting files from your computer.
Adding Donation Features
Most nonprofits need a way to collect donations online. Google Sites doesn't have built-in payment processing, but you can work around this:
Option 1: Payment processor buttons
Most donation platforms like PayPal, Stripe, or JustGiving provide embed codes for donation buttons. Copy this code and paste it into a text box on your Google Site.
Option 2: Google Forms approach
Create a Google Form to collect donor information, then embed it on a dedicated donations page. You'll need to process payments separately, but this works well for organizations that handle donations offline or through other systems.
Make sure your donation process is as simple as possible. The fewer clicks between someone wanting to donate and actually completing the donation, the better your conversion rate will be.
Mobile Responsiveness
Google Sites automatically adjusts to different screen sizes, which handles the basics of mobile responsiveness. However, you should still test how your site looks on phones and tablets.
Check that text is readable without zooming, buttons are easy to tap, and images don't break the layout. If something looks off, you can usually fix it by adjusting image sizes or simplifying your page structure.
Improving Your Site's Visibility
Google Sites includes basic SEO tools that help search engines understand your content:
- Add descriptive page titles and meta descriptions
- Use relevant keywords naturally in your content
- Include alt text when you upload images
- Create clear navigation with descriptive menu labels
Beyond these built-in features, promote your site by sharing the URL on social media, including it in email signatures, and asking partner organizations to link to you.
The SEO capabilities are limited compared to more advanced platforms, so if search visibility is crucial for your nonprofit, you might need to supplement with additional SEO work or consider other platforms as you grow.
Integration with Google Workspace
If your nonprofit already uses Gmail, Google Drive, or other Google services, Sites integrates smoothly with these tools. You can embed Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides directly into your pages, and multiple team members can edit the site if they have the right permissions.
This integration is helpful but not essential. You can use Google Sites effectively even if you don't have Google Workspace.
FAQs
How do I get started with my nonprofit's Google Sites website?
Go to sites.google.com, choose a template that matches your organization's style, and start customizing with your logo, colors, and content.
Can I use Google Sites without Google Workspace?
Yes, you just need a free Google account. Google Workspace adds collaboration features and custom domains, but it's not required.
How do I track visitors to my nonprofit's website?
You can add Google Analytics to your site to see visitor numbers, popular pages, and user behavior. This helps you understand what content resonates with your audience.
Jargon Buster
Google Workspace: Google's suite of business tools including Gmail, Drive, and Docs that can integrate with your website.
SEO: Search Engine Optimization – techniques that help your website appear in search results when people look for topics related to your nonprofit.
Mobile Responsiveness: How well your website works on phones and tablets, automatically adjusting layout and text size for smaller screens.
Wrap-up
Google Sites gives nonprofits a practical way to establish an online presence without technical complexity or significant costs. The platform handles the basics well: it's easy to use, mobile-friendly, and includes essential SEO features.
The main limitations are in customization and advanced functionality. If your needs are straightforward – sharing information about your mission, accepting donations, and connecting with supporters – Google Sites can serve you well.
Ready to take your nonprofit's online presence to the next level? Join Pixelhaze Academy for in-depth training on website building and digital marketing strategies.