Fundraising can be difficult in the best of times. But now, with a recession, it can be even more difficult. Before you panic, here are a few things to remember.
First, DO NOT give into fear. Lots of people are afraid right now. If you get scared and back off from your fundraising activities, then you can forget it. You must stay positive and stay focused. Yes, unemployment is high, but 90% of the population is still employed. The sky is not falling. It’s going to be okay.
Go back to the basics of fundraising. Craft a simple, clear message about the work your organization is doing, then share it! Tell your stories. Tell your donors how your nonprofit is changing people’s lives with their help.
Give donors the chance to give. Don’t assume that they won’t give as much or as often as in previous years. Keep giving them the chance to give through direct mail, newsletters, online, and personal requests.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals has a Survival Kit for Fundraising in a Bad Economy. There are lots of articles with fundraising ideas for tough times.
And I’d like to ask you a question. What’s your toughest fundraising challenge so far this year? What have you bumped into already that’s harder or different than usual? Click on the ‘comment’ link below and let me know what’s happening in your world.
One of the benefits of the “tough times” for start up non profits (which I am) is the learning. If I’m going to mess up, I want it to be now – NOT when the economy is thriving. Missing out on a $2000.00 grant is not as bad as botching up and missing out on a $20,000 grant.
It is hard to find funding and there is so much to learn – but I’m going to keep plugging away at it.
Thanks for a great site – you have a lot of helpful items here!
This is a really useful blog! There are some really helpful pieces of advice.
I think that these tough economic times really call for creative solutions and that it is definitely not the time to back off.
I recently came across a great example of an innovative way to raise funds. I found it at http://micalendar.ca/online-fundraising-calendar-program.html – they provide a way to have donors access a link with an online calendar builder, right from your website. They can then personalize a calendar and all the revenue goes to your cause and the calendars are a great way to raise awareness as well.
Thanks for your comments Marie. I think it’s always a good time to learn and make mistakes. (If you never make mistakes, you never really learn.) The more you put yourself out there, the more benefit you’ll bring to your organization.
Keep up the good work!
Sandy