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Follow-up
I serve on several boards. Half are good about reminding me about my annual gift commitment and where I stand. Your donors have a lot on their plates; a reminder never hurts and usually helps.
We find that one of the top two reasons for bad or lapsed pledges is usually a failure on behalf of the organization to follow up. That lack of follow-up typically reflects a relationship that needs strengthening. And, given time, donors forget their commitments, lose faith in organizations and find others who show more attention.
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Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.