Five Strategies to Help Spark Board Fundraising

Some quick tips Masaoka recommends for board members who run into donors at a reception, holiday party or out in the community are:

1. Thank the donor for her support of the organization.

2. Introduce yourself, letting her know that you’re a member of the organization’s board and add a few words about why you think the cause is so important.

3. Ask why she gives.

4. Ask for advice -- is there something she wishes would change at the organization?

“The Best of the Board Cafe: Hands-on Solutions for Nonprofit Boards” by Jan Masaoka. CompassPoint -- Fieldstone Alliance, 2003. $34.95. www.fieldstonealliance.org/productdetails.cfm?PC=2