No two nonprofits are exactly alike. Each has its own history, programs, people, accomplishments–as well as its own challenges and opportunities.
But is your organization a snowflake?
What I mean is, are you sooo unique that you believe you can’t:
- Create an urgent and compelling case for support?
- Engage board members in friend- or fundraising?
- Take the time to build lasting relationships with donors?
- Communicate your impact and gratitude to donors regularly?
- Ask staff to help with stewardship?
- Maintain accurate records of meetings and engagement?
- Travel to meet donors face-to-face?
- Etc., etc.
Sometimes, organizations use their “uniqueness” as an excuse to avoid doing the hard work of fundraising.
Like slowly and steadily building trust relationships with donors instead of sending one letter with the hope that it will generate major gifts.
If you want the best results in fundraising, it’s time to revisit the best practices of relational fundraising. A few to keep in mind:
- Foster long-term relationships that are ethical, authentic, and purposeful
- Don’t assume anyone “owes” you a gift
- Identify your priorities and go deep, not broad
- Don’t mistake motion for movement (beware of busy work!)
- Create a culture of philanthropy on your team, including board members and other volunteers.
These best practices will help ensure that your nonprofit, with its unique role, will not melt away but rather grows its donor base and fulfills its mission.
Looking for more proven strategies? I recommend “Achieving Excellence in Fundraising, 5th Edition,” produced by the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University.
