Almost everyone gives. The trick is to have them choose your agency to give to. Donors may give money, time or in-kind donations but they give. As a nonprofit looking for funding it becomes important to uncover new individuals, who not only choose to give once but who wish to maintain a relationship with you. In order to achieve this you must make a personal connection with current and prospective donors.
A recent class, given by eTapestry, highlighted the importance of creating the donor – receiver relationship. Cate Shaffer spoke about utilizing social networking to do this. Many of you are reading this because of a social networking site. My blog highlights this article and my business. The blog is connected to sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
As you read the information, you will see my logo, perhaps my picture and often links to other things that I have created or services that I offer. We have made a connection. Now when you think of grants or fund raising I will pop into your mind. It will work the same way for your agency. Often this kind of connection is more impactful for a service-oriented agency. Readers will be hearing from you in small consistent ways. They will hear about your mission, your fundraiser, your needs and your successes.
A reader receives a quick bite of information through their network. Family burned out – looses everything. Please contribute furniture, food or funds. There is a link to your web site – YOU HAVE MADE A CONNECTION. They check it out and think I have…. I could give…. Or I know others who can help and your information is forwarded on. Now the connection moves from one to two to infinity. There really isn’t a limit. And if each person gives something – wow!
The first step in this process is to have a website. If you would like free information on inexpensive and often totally free web sites email me at KeriSilk@fundingsuccess.us include FREE WEBSITES in the subject line.