Ending 2009

As we enter the last few days of 2009, my staff and I are working diligently to solicit last minute contributions and sending year-end gift receipts. This week has been filled with reminder phone calls, personal visits and hopeful expectations.

I’ve been fundraising for more than twenty years, but this year I have truly comprehended how it all comes together. Why? After nurturing relationships for many months and sometimes years, I have been able to successfully solicit many major gifts. And there are several reasons for that: it was the right time, the donor was in the right place, the solicitor was the right person, the cause was right, and the gift amount was right.

Not that there hasn’t been success in previous years. But, this time it seemed effortless, and yet so right for the donor and the organization.

Think about which non-profit organizations that you contribute to. Why is one or two or three your favorite? First, you believe in its mission. The organization is changing lives and/or saving lives. You also believe the organization is fiscally responsible. You receive newsletters and annual reports that share financials and progress reports. Another reason you contribute to the non-profit organizations is because you are a volunteer or you know someone personally that is involved – either as another volunteer or perhaps a recipient.

If you are truly engaged as a contributor and have been for some time, the non-profit organization should be paying attention to you and in the midst of building a personal relationship. That may be why the CEO is calling you or a Board member has called to thank you for your latest gift or share the latest success of the organization.

They are acknowledging your loyalty as a donor and showing respect to you by keeping you up-to-date with the activities of the non-profit. Feel free to ask questions. Accept invitations to meet the CEO, tour the facility or meet the program director. These types of actions are important for you, the donor, as they are to the organization. You will become more invested and will be educated as to why your charitable dollars are so important and how you can continue to invest in the non-profit organization.

All of these steps help builds your passion as a donor and fulfillment as an individual. You become empowered with your continued and increased support of specific non-profits. You truly are making a difference in the lives of the non-profit’s constituencies. And you are creating your legacy for future generations. 

As we enter a new year, let’s take some time to reflect on our goals for 2010. Think about where you would like to be a year from now, three years from now in your philanthropic life. These goals will change the lives of untold others.

Happy New Year!