Fundraising Is Not Just For The Non-Profit
Staff
What About the Board of
Directors…
Every
non-profit organization has a board of directors to
oversee their daily operations. However, the board has
another responsibility that requires them to take action
for the benefit of the organization.
This
responsibility is active fundraising. Board members who get
excited about fundraising and take individual action to
raise donations will maintain the fiscal health of the
non-profit they are affiliated with.
Members of the
Board of Trustees are usually people who are not only in a
position to make financial contributions to the organization
but are well respected in the community.
They have the
ability to reach out to many individuals in their own
personal circles to bring in contributions that can
significantly make within your
organization.
They need to go
directly to the people and ask for a
contribution.
The member needs to show that giving to your organization
means giving back to the community. They need to acquire the
attitude that it is not just a donation, but rather an
investment into an enterprise that serves the people of that
community. The
greater the investment, the greater the community
benefits. It’s
a win-win situation.
How Can They Do This You Ask?
People are social
animals by nature. Who doesn’t like going to
a friendly dinner or cocktail party and rub elbows with
other well-known members of the community? Have you ever been invited
to a dinner for a political candidate? Not only do they want your
vote but they want your money as well.
Board members can
do the same thing. He or she can:
-
Use your annual appeal letter and write a personal
note to a friend, relative, coworker, etc. and ask
for a donation to your cause
These are
only a few suggestions that board members can raise money.
There are so many different ways that board members not only
can help but should help maintain the financial
structure of your organization. A little creativity and a
lot of compassion—and good social interaction—can go a long
way.
Don’t
Be Afraid To Use A Powerful
Ally
Don’t be
afraid to invited and/or recruit new board members who have
some clout.
People in “high places” are often happy to help non-profit
organizations.
Some people such as bank managers, corporate presidents,
owners of land development companies, etc. are excellent
candidates.
These people are powerful fundraising
allies.
Remember…Always
Say Thank You!
Whenever you have
a fundraising drive, individual donations, corporate
sponsoring, or receive any other types of funding,
always send a personal thank you note. This responsibility is
that of the board president. A personal note from him
or her sends a message that you care and respect the
person(s) giving you the money.
Make sure
to include how you will be using the money. Try to be as specific
as you can and make it personal. For instance, you can
say something to the effect, “Your generous donation will
provide food for another 100 hungry families for the
entire month of October.” People want to know
that their money made a difference.
Show The Community Who Your Generous
Contributors Are
If you send out
an annual report to your donors, make sure you list everyone
who has generously given to you
organization…especially your Board of
Directors. Show
the people that you have 100% participation in gift giving
from your board.
This creates a
source of pride for the donor. It also encourages them to
donate again.
Knowing that you show how much you appreciate their gift
will go a long way.
If you
don’t have a annul report then send a year-end summary of
donations in January. This allows the people
to apply their donation to their taxes and it also
encourages them to want to give again…even if it is for a
tax deduction.
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