Young Donors and Other Mythical Creatures

Boomers don't force you to change absolutely everything about fundraising. You still have to make a clear, compelling, emotional case for a gift. And you still can reach them through traditional 
media channels.

You know how you eventually turn into your dad (or mom)? It really happens. If you haven't had that startling revelation about yourself yet, you will.

Well, it's happening to boomers big time. They're turning into their parents. The older they get, the more they act like old people.

Which takes us back to where we started: You are a young donor. And normal donors are old. Even the younger ones are old.

So here are some hints for creating successful fundraising with older donors (i.e., fundraising):

● Don't market to yourself. If your yardstick for good work is "I'd respond to that," you're getting it wrong for sure.

● Have a specific older person in mind when you work on your fundraising. Don't say stuff that you wouldn't say to that person.

● Hang out with older people. If you don't have any in your life right now, volunteer at an assisted-living place or nursing home. You've got to get their attitudes and voices drilled into your head!

● Read what older people read: Guideposts, Reader's Digest, AARP Magazine. Hey, they aren't half bad!

● Create a filter for stuff that's cutting-edge and cool. When you create it, trash it! FS