Basic Fund-Raising Principles
by Jessica High

“Charities need to develop multiple sources of contributions or risk financial collapse,” writes Holly Hall. In her article Fund-Raising Strategies for Troubled Times, Hall offers some basic suggestions for maintaining fund-raising.

 

Avoid fund-raising cuts—Many groups are having to cut back in many areas of their programs. However, Hall strongly stresses that fundraising is the area that should absolutely not be cut back in. It may take some creativity to maintain this area, but it is important. Edith Falk, another consultant, says, “by cutting your development program […] you are putting yourself behind by another six months to a year after the economy improves.”

 

By maintaining things like personal contact with your donors, you can maintain their support because you have invested in them.

 

Keep top donors close— There are many different ideas about how to make requests or how many should be made. Hall suggests though that “it is more important than ever for charities to keep communicating with their top donors.” Communication is an investment.

 

Tell a good story—If you are making requests, it is important for people to know what is going on in your organization. Stories make the biggest difference because they give a personal connection. Relationships are important to build connections with funders.

 

Collaborate with other groups—If you feeling the pinch, you are not alone. Find ways you can work together with other groups. Find out what needs you share and how you can “collaborate” to meet those needs.

 

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