Jack Johnson’s song Better Together is one of my favorites!
It makes me think of how fundraising should be done with a group of people; not just the one executive director or development director on an island.
Plus, raising money alone can be exhausting and limit how much you’re able to accomplish. Engaging board members, volunteers, and staff in fundraising leads to a better donor experience, builds stronger relationships, and opens doors to new supporters.
Here are three ways to engage others in the fundraising process:
1. Start with new board member orientation
Many board members feel uncomfortable with fundraising simply because they’ve never been trained or have a negative experience. Incorporating fundraising training into new board member orientation allows you to get new members started on the right foot.
Things a new member orientation should include:
- An overview of the organization’s fundraising goals and strategies.
- Clear expectations about their role in fundraising.
- A discussion of the case statement.
- Practical tips, such as how to share their personal connection to the mission or invite a donor to an event.
2. Focus the Development Committee on relationship building
Fundraising committees often get bogged down with the idea that their primary role is “hitting up” their friends and coworkers for donations. Yuck!
Even though asking is essential in the fundraising process, the real magic happens when board members focus on building and nurturing relationships with donors.
Help development committee members to:
- Reach out to donors to say thank you after events or campaigns.
- Host small gatherings or point-of-entry events to connect with potential supporters.
- Share meaningful stories about the impact of donations.
By prioritizing this type of engagement engagement, your development committee can foster connections that lead to lasting support.
3. Let staff take the lead
Staff members are the backbone of fundraising efforts. In my experience, they often find themselves in reactive mode—responding to requests from the board or putting out fires instead of executing a carefully crafted plan. By taking the lead in organizing fundraising activities, staff can provide structure and direction that empower board members and volunteers to be more effective.
Here’s how staff can set the tone:
- Create clear fundraising plans and recommend them with the board.
- Share new information or nuggets you learn from attending a webinar, conference or an article you read.
- Provide talking points, templates, and other resources to make it easy for others to engage.
- Celebrate small wins to keep everyone motivated.
When staff lead proactively, it’s easier for everyone else to play a part.
“Yeeahh, it’s always Better when we’re Together.” (when it’s done correctly)
All the best,
Kenny Sigler, CFRE