When we consider fundraising, we often look at the bottom line and the bottom line only: the gift. We often see the financial donation as the goal and miss the opportunity to see what that donor is really all about.
The real goal of fundraising is to build a relationship with the donor and grow their heart to your organization. The question is, how do we do that?
Keeping in mind the philosophy that people give to people, allow other donors and volunteers to draw in new donors and volunteers. With our lives wrapped around social media, encouraging donors and volunteers to share something about your organization on their personal page is a great start. When someone sees that their friend is involved with your organization, they will immediately view your organization as a reputable nonprofit.
An easy way to allow donors to share their relationship with your organization is by giving them the opportunity to share why they gave to your organization right from your donation confirmation page. Allow the donor to fill in why they gave and share with their Facebook friends.
Connect with donors in small ways such as a personal email or handwritten note after their first gift. A personal phone call just to say thank you is a great way to build a relationship.
Every nonprofit has lapsed donors. Don’t miss the opportunity to win them back by sending them a simple note saying “we miss you.” Let them know what is happening in you organization since they last gave and tell them what’s coming up. You just might grab their interest with your latest news.
Take the time to look at your donor database. See who is new, who has a giving anniversary coming up and who may have stopped giving over the last year. Make an effort with each of these donors and see your donations increase as you build these relationships.