FUNdraising Good Times: Who Makes the Frist Move?

When you want things to happen, what do you do? Do you make the first move, or wait for someone else to? How’s that working out? For some this is the right method, but others end up feeling as if things just aren’t happening. Here’s our suggestion: if you want something to happen, do something.

In fundraising – as in life – there comes a time when nonprofit leaders wonder “why isn’t my board engaged in fundraising?” This can be followed by complaints such as “don’t they know their supposed to fundraise? And “they don’t even make an annual gift.” Of course, these comments are not shared with board members, neither politely nor under the breath. But its what people feel, and we believe that’s wasted energy. Grumble a little, and then its up to you to make the first move. The following are suggestions for how you can catalyze your board, or more appropriately, catalyze the board of the nonprofit you all lead together.

First, develop a list of prospective donors and funders and share these, one-on-one, with each of your board members. Ask them if they know any of the prospects you have identified; ask who they think should be included on the list; ask about which prospects they believe resonate the most with the vision of your organization. Most importantly ask if they would work with you to cultivate one prospective donor. If you want engagement, you have to ask for it. You won’t be asking anyone to do anything on their own, just to work with you and accompany you. Don’t worry about the whole board, work with each board member, and don’t overlook anyone. Yes, this takes time, but its better to be in action than bellyaching!

Here are some other ways in which you can take that first step. Use the one-on-one approach here as well. Ask one board member to host an event at their home or office to introduce your nonprofit to a new audience. If one says “no,” then ask another. The host should share opening remarks about why they give of their time and invite board and staff to share remarks and tell stories. Keep it short and simple. Afterwards you and the host should both send out thank you notes and strategize on continued engagement.

Talk one-on-one with your board chair and ask her to talk individually with each board member about how important it is that each make a gift to the organization. This is her responsibility, not yours. But you can prepare her with suggestions for a collective board giving goal and information about fundraising priorities. Here are a few other suggestions: share a draft case for support and ask for feedback; draft a gift acceptance policy and suggested naming opportunities and ask for input; discuss how to define fundraising success (here’s a hint: it’s not that simple!). Reach out to your board and offer them ways to reach back and give back! Your nonprofit is worth it. God protect America.