Does your organization need regular, donors?
Nonprofit organizations everywhere are in search of donors that will support the work being done by their organization. Ideally, these donors will have a lot of money and will give a large portion of that money to their particular organization. Unfortunately, it is rare for nonprofits to stumble across these perfect donors. So, since this ideal situation rarely happens, let’s talk about what you can do about building your donors list. You want regular, consistent donors for your nonprofit. The question then becomes how to attract regular donors to your organization. I’ll share several steps you can take to do just that.
According to the National Philanthropic Trust, more than 80% of American households give to charities. The mean amount given by American households is $870 annually. It is important to remember that these statistics reflect giving by all households; typically, the giving by Christian households is significantly higher because of giving to their religious congregation. So, the question becomes how to attract American donors to your organization.
Here are 3 steps you can take to build your donor list:
- First, seek to build your email and contact lists. At each event or encounter with prospective donors, integrate specific strategies to build your contact lists. Each of these individuals is a potential donor who has already shown some interest in the work being done by your organization.
- Second, stay in touch with these individuals…beyond asking them for money. Let them know of organizational accomplishments and milestones. They are investing in your cause and by keeping them in the loop, they will see that their investment is making a difference and will encourage them to keep supporting your nonprofit. They may even be compelled to increase their giving as they see specific needs or can witness the momentum that is building with your efforts.
- Be sure to include a “donate” button on your website. The goal is to make giving as easy as possible for donors. Today, many individuals do not regularly use a checkbook and will not take the time to write a check and put it in the mail. When someone donates on your website, provide an option for them to commit to giving a monthly gift. Such monthly gifts become gifts that occur consistently, every month without a need to solicit another gift. More importantly, monthly gifts over time, can become substantial contributions to the work of your organization.
Be sure to thank each and every person who supports your organization. It is so important to have people supporting what you do! Make sure they know how much you appreciate their support. When they give to your organization, they helping you achieve your mission and they are allowing you to serve those people & causes you are so passionate about. That is a gift that is hard to measure.
We love to hear from you! Share with us the success you have with monthly giving to support your nonprofit.
