If you're in an organization that is overly dependent upon single-source funding, especially the structured variety of public and institutional sources, the time to create a program of diversification is now, not when you're faced with the sudden loss of a major source of your revenue.
Make sure people know what you want them to know about you. Try to control the message before it controls you.
Liz's worthy organization sought to be frugal for years. Not a bad thing. Gradually, but surely, this desire to be financially responsible morphed into a cost-cutting monster. That's when the need to keep faith with investors, donors — those who pay the bills — somehow got lost in the desire to maximize cash flow and reduce overhead to zero — if possible.
As a nonprofit leader, volunteers and especially board members need to be looking to you as the expert, as the leader. If you need additional expertise for various reasons, bring in consultants, advisors, board members and staff. For nonprofit success — and fundraising success specifically — be strategic and lead!
What is it each day, each week and each month that you absolutely must focus on for the best possible fundraising results?
Think about your work performance, and strive to give it your best each day. You will drive home with a good feeling knowing you gave it your best, and others will notice.
St. Joseph's Indian School responds to CNN's claims that the school used fundraising letters "signed by fictitious kids." It's a lesson in responding to negative press.
When you have a long career, you create a database of contacts. If you're lucky, you may reconnect with people from your past and start the engagement process all over again.
A donor gives because he has been inspired by the work your organization does and the work you have done to match his passion with the mission. Everything else is the cherry.
I strongly encourage every person in our profession to volunteer and give back to help to others. Giving is what makes our profession special and unique. In truth, all of us are volunteer consultants in the sense we have acquired skills and experiences that are transferable to others. Even if you feel you have given back for many years, take a deep breath and volunteer again. To those who are just entering the field, work and volunteer at the same time. Who knows, you might eventually work for the cause that is currently your focus for volunteer service.
