Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Give-and-Get Policy to Thrive

Running a nonprofit without a give-and-get policy is like hosting a potluck where no one brings a dish. Sure, people show up, but the table looks a little... empty. A thriving nonprofit needs a well-fed table of resources, and your board members are in the best position to bring those “dishes” to the party.

Let’s talk about what a give-and-get policy is, why it’s non-negotiable for nonprofit success, and how you can implement one without alienating your board (spoiler: it’s easier than you think).

What Is a Give-and-Get Policy?

A give-and-get policy is a structured expectation that every board member contributes to the financial health of your organization. It boils down to this:

1. Give: Board members personally donate to the organization.
2. Get: Board members secure donations from others, whether through sponsorships, event ticket sales, or plain ol’ fundraising magic.

This policy ensures that every board member has skin in the game, aligning their actions with your mission in a tangible way.

Why Is a Give-and-Get Policy Crucial?

Here’s the hard truth: A board that doesn’t prioritize fundraising is like a car stuck in neutral. It’s working hard but not going anywhere. A give-and-get policy shifts the focus, creating momentum and driving your mission forward.

1. It Sets the Tone for a Culture of Giving.

When board members personally invest in your cause, they send a powerful message: We believe in this mission. This inspires staff, donors, and other stakeholders to do the same.

2. It Levels the Playing Field.

Let’s face it—fundraising can feel intimidating. A give-and-get policy provides clear expectations and practical tools to help everyone contribute in ways that play to their strengths.

3. It Attracts Mission-Aligned Board Members.

When your board has a clear give-and-get policy, you naturally attract members who are ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference. It’s a self-fulfilling prophecy: motivated people do great things.

How to Implement a Give-and-Get Policy Without Losing Your Board

You might be thinking, Won’t this scare people off? Not if you roll it out the right way. Here’s how:

1. Be Clear About Expectations From Day One.

Discuss the give-and-get policy during the recruitment process. Explain why it’s important and how it helps the organization achieve its mission.

2. Offer Flexibility.

Not every board member has deep pockets, and that’s okay. The “get” part of the policy ensures that everyone can contribute meaningfully, whether by securing sponsorships, organizing fundraisers, or tapping into their networks.

3. Provide Training and Support.

Fundraising is a skill, and not everyone comes to the table with experience. Equip your board with the tools they need to succeed, like templates, scripts, and guidance from your development team.

4. Celebrate Contributions.

Acknowledge and celebrate every effort, big or small. Public recognition and gratitude go a long way in reinforcing a culture of giving.

Real Talk: What Happens Without a Give-and-Get Policy

Without a give-and-get policy, nonprofits risk:

• Financial Instability: If your board isn’t contributing, who is?
• Burnout Among Staff: When fundraising falls solely on staff, it leads to exhaustion and high turnover.
• Lost Opportunities: Without sufficient funds, programs stagnate, and your mission suffers.

Ready to Get Started?

A give-and-get policy isn’t about squeezing money out of your board—it’s about empowering them to be true champions of your mission. It aligns their passion with your purpose and sets your nonprofit up for long-term success. You've got this!

If you’re ready to transform your board into a fundraising dream team and learn even more about Give AND Get Policies, my course, “How to Get Your Nonprofit Board to Fundraise,” has everything you need—practical strategies, time-saving tools, and step-by-step guidance.

Creating a development plan can feel like trying to build a house without blueprints—you're grabbing tools and materials, but there’s no clear path to the finished product. A well-crafted plan is your nonprofit’s roadmap to fundraising success, helping you focus your efforts, allocate resources wisely, and hit your revenue goals. Let’s dive into how you can create a nonprofit development plan that works for your nonprofit, all while avoiding the overwhelm.

Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Development Plan

If your nonprofit is operating without a clear development plan, you’re not alone. Many nonprofits find themselves in reactive fundraising mode, constantly hustling to catch up on revenue needs without a strategic path forward. But here’s the reality: a nonprofit development plan isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s essential for sustained growth. A good plan will keep your team aligned, your board engaged, and your mission moving forward.

1. Set Clear and Specific Goals

The first step in creating your fundraising plan is setting clear, specific, and measurable goals. This isn’t just about saying, “We want to raise $100,000.” Be intentional:

• Annual Revenue Goals: What’s your target revenue for the year? Break it down by each fundraising source—grants, individual giving, events, corporate sponsorships, etc.
• Program Goals: Are there specific programs that need funding? How much is required to fully fund them?
• Donor Acquisition and Retention: How many new donors do you want to acquire? What’s your retention goal?

Pro Tip: Use SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to ensure your objectives are not just wishful thinking but actionable targets.

2. Identify Your Key Fundraising Strategies

Once your goals are in place, it’s time to outline the strategies you’ll use to meet them. This section of your nonprofit development plan is your playbook—it defines the key fundraising activities your nonprofit will focus on.

Here’s a look at some common strategies you might include:

• Individual Giving: Appeal campaigns, major gifts, monthly giving programs, and peer-to-peer fundraising.
• Grants: Researching opportunities, writing proposals, and maintaining funder relationships.
• Events: In-person galas, virtual fundraisers, and community events.
• Corporate Partnerships: Sponsorships, cause marketing, and employee giving programs.
• Planned Giving: Cultivating legacy gifts through wills, trusts, and bequests.

Pro Tip: Diversify your revenue streams to avoid becoming overly dependent on one source of funding. A healthy mix of individual giving, grants, and events can help stabilize your nonprofit’s finances.

3. Define Action Steps and Assign Roles

The success of your fundraising plan depends on execution, which means every strategy needs a set of action steps and assigned roles. This section is all about breaking down each fundraising strategy into manageable tasks and determining who will be responsible for what.

• Action Steps: List each specific action required to implement the strategy. For example, if one of your strategies is major gift solicitation, your action steps might include identifying prospects, crafting personalized pitches, and scheduling meetings.
• Roles and Responsibilities: Assign each task to a specific person—whether it’s your development director, an enthusiastic board member, or a volunteer. This helps ensure accountability and keeps your plan from gathering dust on the shelf.

Pro Tip: Be realistic about your team’s capacity. If you’re a small nonprofit, prioritize the strategies that have the highest return on investment and are achievable with your current resources.

4. Create a Fundraising Calendar

A nonprofit development plan without a timeline is like a GPS with no directions. A fundraising calendar is your roadmap, laying out when each fundraising activity will happen throughout the year.

• Monthly Giving Push in January: Kick off the year by promoting monthly giving. Set up a campaign that runs for 4 weeks.
• Grant Deadlines in Q2: List all grant application deadlines for the year. Be sure to include time for writing, review, and submission.
• Fall Appeal Campaign in October: Plan your direct mail or digital campaign to coincide with end-of-year giving.

Pro Tip: A well-thought-out calendar will help you avoid the dreaded “feast or famine” cycle of fundraising by ensuring consistent revenue throughout the year.

5. Develop a Budget for Your Plan

Don’t skip this step. Your nonprofit development plan isn’t just about raising money; it’s also about understanding what it costs to raise that money. Outline the expenses associated with each strategy, including staff time, marketing materials, event costs, and more.

• Direct Mail Costs: Printing, postage, and design fees.
• Event Expenses: Venue rentals, catering, and decor.
• Software Subscriptions: CRM, email marketing, and donor management tools.

Pro Tip: Calculate the return on investment (ROI) for each fundraising strategy to ensure you’re maximizing your dollars spent.

6. Measure Success and Adjust as Needed

Last but not least, make sure your fundraising plan includes a system for tracking progress and evaluating results. Regularly review your fundraising performance against your goals, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plan if something isn’t working.

• Key Metrics: Track metrics like donor retention rate, average gift size, and fundraising ROI.
• Review Meetings: Schedule quarterly reviews with your team to assess progress and make necessary adjustments.

Pro Tip: Use data to drive your decisions. If a strategy isn’t performing as expected, analyze why and tweak your approach. Flexibility is key to a successful development plan.

Bringing It All Together

Your nonprofit development plan is more than just a document—it’s your strategic partner in fundraising. By taking the time to outline your goals, strategies, and action steps, you’re setting your organization up for success. And remember, your plan isn’t set in stone. It’s a living, breathing guide that should evolve alongside your nonprofit’s needs. So get started today, and watch as your fundraising takes off in new and exciting directions.

Ready to create a winning fundraising plan without starting from scratch? Grab our comprehensive Development Plan Template, designed specifically for nonprofits like yours. It includes easy-to-follow steps, action-packed strategies, and all the tools you need to map out your fundraising success. Don’t miss this opportunity to simplify your planning process and boost your fundraising efforts. Get your Development Plan Template today and take the first step toward a more sustainable future for your nonprofit!

Let's get real for a moment. You know that sinking feeling when your board meeting rolls around? That moment when you realize – once again – that your board members would rather do literally anything else than raise money for the organization they claim to care about?

I've seen it a thousand times. Brilliant, passionate board members who turn into deer in headlights at the mere mention of fundraising. They're suddenly checking their phones, rearranging papers, avoiding eye contact – anything to escape the fundraising conversation.

This isn't just frustrating. This is an organizational death sentence.

The Real Cost of Fundraising Silence

Imagine the potential of your nonprofit, suffocated by board members who refuse to step up. Every networking event they attend, every board meeting they sit through – wasted opportunities. Your staff is working overtime, stretching every dollar, while board members sit comfortably, completely disconnected from the financial realities of your mission.

The pain is real. And it's expensive.

Why Good People Become Fundraising Ghosts

Board members aren't bad people. They're terrified people. Fundraising feels like:

• Walking into a shark tank
• Risking personal relationships
• Performing an impossible task
• Potentially looking foolish

But here's the thing: Your mission is too important to let fear win.

The Transformation Roadmap

1. Rewrite the Fundraising Story: Fundraising isn't a scary ask. It's an invitation to create change. Your board members aren't selling – they're connecting passionate people to a mission that matters.
2. Create a Fundraising Buffet: Not everyone will be a direct-ask champion. Some board members can:
   • Host intimate gatherings
   • Make strategic introductions
   • Share powerful impact stories
   • Write heartfelt thank-you notes
3. Training That Actually Works: Forget boring presentations. Create experiences that:
   • Build confidence
   • Provide real-world scripts
   • Demystify the fundraising process
4. Set Expectations with Compassion: Fundraising involvement should be:
   • Clear from day one
   • Supported, not punitive
   • Tailored to individual strengths
5. Celebrate Every Single Effort: Recognition is your secret weapon. Applaud board members who step outside their comfort zone, no matter the immediate outcome.

The Hard Truth

Your board's fundraising paralysis isn't just inconvenient. It's slowly starving your mission of the resources it needs to create real, lasting change.

But here's the good news: This can change. And I'm going to show you exactly how.

My course, "How to Get Your Nonprofit Board to Fundraise," is your roadmap out of this nightmare. We're not just talking theory – we're delivering practical, actionable strategies that transform reluctant board members into confident fundraising advocates. You can find out more about this course here: https://www.successfornonprofits.com/offers/how-to-get-your-nonprofit-board-to-fundraise

Because your mission deserves more than wishful thinking. It deserves committed, engaged board members who understand that fundraising is the lifeline of nonprofit work.

Are you ready to change everything?

You know what makes a donor feel like they’re truly part of your mission? A killer thank-you letter. Not the kind that sounds like it came from a tax receipt, but one that makes your supporters feel like heroes. A well-crafted thank-you note isn’t just a formality; it’s your chance to show your donors the incredible impact they’re making and to build the kind of connection that keeps them coming back.

Let’s break it down, piece by piece.

1. Start Strong: The Introduction
Think of the introduction as your warm, heartfelt hug through words. This is where you grab your donor’s attention and make them feel like the hero they are.

Here’s how to nail it:

• Personalized Salutation: No “Dear Friend” nonsense here. Use their name! It’s a simple way to show they’re more than just a number to you.
• Gratitude That Shines: Dive into a specific example that connects their gift to real-life impact. For example:
  • Compelling: “Thanks to your generosity, little Lucy finally got the life-saving surgery she needed. Your $100 gift didn’t just help a child; it gave her a chance at a bright future.”
  • Less Compelling: “Thank you for your $100 donation. Please keep this letter for your records.”

See the difference? One feels like a hug, the other feels like a bill.

2. Build Connection: The Body
Now that you’ve got their attention, it’s time to deepen the connection. This is where you get specific and show your donor the true impact of their gift.

• Tell a Story: Forget the generic “your donation helps our mission” lines. Instead, share a powerful, personal story. Talk about one family, one animal, or one individual whose life has been changed because of their support. People remember stories, not stats.
• Make It Easy to Read:
  • Use a clean, simple font and plenty of white space.
  • Add bolded text, bullet points, or quotes to highlight key points.
• Add Impact Data: Wrap up your story with a relevant stat that shows the bigger picture. For example: “Last year, thanks to supporters like you, we served over 5,000 meals to families in need.”

3. End with Gratitude: The Conclusion
Wrap up your letter by doubling down on your gratitude and leaving your donor with a warm, fuzzy feeling. Here’s how:

• Restate Your Thanks: Reiterate the incredible difference their gift made. Make it personal and heartfelt.
• Soft Call to Action: Instead of asking for more money, invite them to engage further. For instance: “Check out our Instagram to see more stories of lives you’ve changed.”
• Contact Info: Let them know how they can reach you if they have questions or want to get involved.

4. Don’t Skip the Signature and P.S.
Did you know that most donors skim your letter, heading straight for the signature and postscript? Use these areas to shine.

• Signature: Choose someone relatable and recognizable, like your executive director or a program leader. Bonus points if you include a small photo to add a personal touch.
• Postscript (P.S.): This is prime real estate. Use it to share a final heartfelt note or invite them to an event. For example: “P.S. We’d love to meet you! Join us for our annual open house on March 15 to see your impact in action.”

A great thank-you letter isn’t just about saying thanks. It’s about showing your donors they’re an essential part of your mission. By personalizing your message, telling impactful stories, and leaving them with an open invitation to stay connected, you’ll transform a simple note into a relationship-building powerhouse.

Take Your Donor Communications to the Next Level!
Want to make donor stewardship a breeze? Join our Success For Nonprofits Membership Program today. You’ll get access to exclusive resources, templates, and insider tips that save you time and boost donor retention. Click here to learn more.

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If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by a board that seems allergic to fundraising, you’re not alone. The most common gripe I hear from nonprofit leaders? “My board just won’t help with fundraising.”

Here’s the thing: most board members don’t dislike fundraising. What they dislike is asking for money. So, let’s reframe the conversation. What if your board could make a massive impact on your fundraising without ever making a direct ask? Sound good? Read on.

Why Fundraising Feels So Hard

When board members balk at fundraising, it’s usually because they think it means begging their friends for money or approaching strangers with hat in hand. Spoiler alert: fundraising isn’t about that. It’s about sharing passion, building relationships, and making connections.

Even if you’ve provided training and tools, not everyone will feel comfortable asking. And that’s okay. There are plenty of ways to engage your board in fundraising that don’t involve “the ask.”

Here are 10 ways to get them involved—and loving it.

1. Say Thank You (A Lot)

Gratitude matters. In fact, it’s critical for donor retention. Your board members can:

• Make heartfelt thank-you calls.
• Write personal notes on thank-you letters.
• Send thank-you emails.
• Thank donors in person at events or virtual gatherings.

Gratitude is an easy, meaningful way to deepen donor relationships.

2. Share Their Networks

Your board members know people you don’t. They can:

• Introduce friends, colleagues, and family members to your mission.
• Invite potential supporters to events.
• Arrange coffee chats or tours with your Executive Director.

Connections build community and open doors.

3. Add a Personal Touch to Letters

Personal notes go a long way. Whether it’s a thank-you letter, appeal, or newsletter, a quick handwritten message from a board member can make all the difference.

4. Forward Emails to Their Contacts

Encourage your board to forward your emails—whether it’s an appeal, event invitation, or newsletter—to their networks. Messages from someone you know are much more likely to get opened.

5. Bring Guests to Events

Board members should always have a +1 (or more!) for your events. Every new face is a potential supporter. And don’t worry—they don’t have to pay for their guests unless they want to.

6. Give a Tour

Ask your board members to lead tours of your organization. It’s a great way to deepen their connection to your work while sharing it with others. Bonus points if they bring friends along.

7. Host a Friend-Raiser

What’s a friend-raiser? Think casual gathering, not gala. Board members can host informal receptions in their homes to introduce people to your mission. No fundraising ask—just storytelling and connection-building.

8. Share on Social Media

Your board members can amplify your message by sharing your posts, events, and campaigns on their social media. Bonus: it’s free and easy.

9. Help with Grant Writing

Got a board member who’s a wordsmith? They can help research and write grants. Even small contributions to this labor-intensive task can make a big difference.

10. Advocate for Your Organization

Your board members are your biggest champions. They can:

• Speak at community events.
• Advocate for your cause with local leaders.
• Write op-eds or letters to the editor about your work.

Advocacy builds awareness and credibility, setting the stage for future fundraising success.

Pick a Few and Start Small

Don’t overwhelm your board. Share this list and ask each member to choose one or two ways to get involved. By starting small, you’ll build confidence and momentum—and before you know it, you’ll have a board that’s excited about fundraising.

Let’s Take It to the Next Level

If you’re ready to transform your board into a fundraising dream team, my course, “How to Get Your Nonprofit Board to Fundraise,” has everything you need—practical strategies, time-saving tools, and step-by-step guidance.

Enroll now and start turning ‘I can’t’ into ‘I’ll try’ (and eventually into ‘I did’)!

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Let’s be honest: asking your nonprofit board to fundraise can feel like pulling teeth. You’ve got the one board member who’s “not really a fundraiser,” the one who’s “just too busy,” and the one who flat-out avoids the conversation altogether. Sound familiar?

Here’s the truth—and it’s time we all faced it head-on: if your board isn’t involved in fundraising, you’re leaving money on the table. Worse, you’re missing an opportunity to transform your board into the engaged, invested powerhouse it’s meant to be.

So, how do you fix it? By setting clear, realistic fundraising expectations and building a culture of accountability that gets everyone on board (pun intended).

Why Fundraising Is Non-Negotiable for Your Board

Fundraising isn’t just about dollars; it’s about commitment. When your board steps up to fundraise, they’re sending a powerful message: We believe in this mission so much that we’re willing to do the work to make it thrive.

But here’s the kicker: if you don’t set expectations, your board members will assume one of two things:

1. Fundraising is optional.
2. Fundraising is someone else’s job.

Neither is true, and both will keep your nonprofit stuck in neutral. Let’s change that.

Step 1: Start With Realistic, Measurable Goals

Before you can hold your board accountable, you need to define what success looks like. This means setting clear, measurable fundraising goals that align with your organization’s needs and your board’s capacity.

Here’s a simple framework to get started:

• Individual Contributions: Each board member commits to giving a specific amount annually. (This doesn’t have to be the same for everyone—equity matters.)
• Participation in Fundraising Events: Expect attendance at events, and where appropriate, encourage board members to bring a guest or two.
• Engagement in Campaigns: Whether it’s making donor thank-you calls, hosting a small gathering, or promoting campaigns on social media, every board member can contribute in ways that suit their strengths.

Pro Tip: Make these expectations part of your board member agreement. If it’s in writing, it’s real.

Step 2: Onboard With Fundraising Front and Center

If you’re not talking about fundraising during your board recruitment and onboarding process, you’re setting yourself up for frustration later.

When you bring on new board members, be crystal clear about the role they’ll play in fundraising. Here are a few tips:

• Share Success Stories: Show them how past board fundraising efforts have impacted your organization.
• Provide Training: Not everyone is born knowing how to fundraise. Offer workshops or resources to help your board build confidence.
• Pair Them With a Mentor: A seasoned board member can guide new recruits and make fundraising feel less intimidating.

Step 3: Create Tools to Track and Celebrate Progress

Accountability doesn’t have to feel punitive. In fact, when done right, it can feel empowering. The key is to provide tools that track progress and celebrate wins.

• Use a Scorecard: Create a simple, transparent way to track each board member’s contributions—both financial and non-financial.
• Report Regularly: Share progress updates at every board meeting. Celebrate milestones, like reaching 75% of your annual fundraising goal.
• Recognize Effort: Publicly thank board members for their fundraising efforts. A little acknowledgment goes a long way.

Step 4: Build a Culture of Accountability (With a Side of Grace)

Accountability isn’t about wagging fingers or shaming anyone. It’s about creating a shared commitment to your mission and holding each other to a standard that makes your nonprofit stronger.

Here’s how to do it:

• Lead By Example: If you’re expecting your board to fundraise, you need to be in the trenches with them.
• Encourage Peer Accountability: Pair board members into fundraising teams. It’s a lot harder to dodge your responsibilities when your teammate is counting on you.
• Offer Grace: Life happens. If a board member can’t meet their fundraising goal this year, work with them to find other ways they can contribute.

The Big Picture: Fundraising as a Team Sport

Fundraising is not a solo act—it’s a team sport. When your board understands their role, feels supported, and is held accountable, they’ll step up in ways that will surprise and delight you.

Setting expectations isn’t about making fundraising a chore. It’s about showing your board the joy and fulfillment that comes from investing in your mission and watching it flourish.

Are you ready to build a culture of accountability and turn your board into fundraising rockstars? Sign up for my course, How To Get Your Nonprofit Board To Fundraise, and learn how to empower your board to embrace fundraising with confidence.

When it comes to nonprofit fundraising, every dollar counts. But what if you could double the impact of every donation your organization receives? That's the magic of matching donations, a powerful strategy that can propel your fundraising efforts to new heights.

Why Matching Donations Work:

• Psychology of giving: Studies show that people are 84% more likely to donate when their contribution is matched. This taps into social proof, reciprocity, and a sense of urgency, making donors feel like their contribution is truly making a difference.
• Bigger impact: Turning a $20 donation into $40 or a $100 gift into $200 empowers donors and makes them feel like they're driving real change.

Finding Matching Donors:

• Corporate partnerships: Look for local businesses or corporations aligned with your mission. Many have matching gift programs for employees.
• Major donors: Approach your most generous supporters about matching funds for specific campaigns or events.
• Online platforms: Crowdfunding sites and social media can connect you with matching donors. Platforms like RallyUp even have built-in features.

Entice Potential Contributors:

• Be transparent: Clearly explain the matching process and the potential impact of their gift.
• Use visuals: Progress bars, graphs, and impact stories can motivate donors and show them the finish line.
• Tell compelling stories: Connect donors emotionally to your cause through powerful narratives.
• Offer brand recognition: Partnering corporations love seeing their logo on your social media, website, and event materials.

Building Lasting Relationships:

• Thank your donors: Personalized notes or recognition events show sincere appreciation.
• Provide regular updates: Keep donors informed about your progress and the impact they're helping create.
• Engage on social media: Respond, share, and make them feel like part of your community.

Matching donations are more than just a strategy; they're a game-changer. By understanding the psychology behind them, finding generous partners, and building strong relationships, you can unlock a world of possibilities and double your impact for your nonprofit.

So, go forth, double your impact, and watch your mission soar!

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Have you ever felt a pang of awkwardness when reaching out to a donor after a long silence? You're not alone. But what if I told you a simple "hello" could have a bigger impact than you think?

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology explored the power of casual check-ins. Researchers found that even brief interactions – a phone call, a quick email, a thoughtful text – can significantly strengthen connections.

This might seem counterintuitive, especially with donors you haven't spoken to in a while. But the study revealed an interesting twist: the more unexpected the outreach, the greater the positive impact. So, that donor you haven't heard from in years? They might be pleasantly surprised to hear from you!

Why does this work? Remember, humans are social creatures who crave connection. Peggy Liu, the study's lead author, points out that initiating contact, even after a gap, can feel daunting because we worry about how it will be received. But the research suggests our fears are often unfounded. In most cases, people appreciate being remembered and reached out to.

So, how can you apply this to your donor relationships? Here are a few tips:

• Personalize your message: Go beyond a generic template. Mention something specific about their past support or interests.
• Keep it brief and informal: A quick email or text expressing your appreciation and curiosity about their well-being is enough.
• Focus on connection, not just fundraising: While you can mention your organization's current initiatives, prioritize rekindling the relationship.

By reaching out with genuine warmth and interest, you can remind your donors why they connected with your cause in the first place. And who knows, they might just surprise you with their renewed engagement!

Remember, every donor is worth the effort. Don't be afraid to break the silence and build bridges of understanding. You might just discover that a simple connection can pave the way for future support and lasting relationships.

Ever dream of a steady stream of donations flowing effortlessly into your organization? That's the magic of recurring giving, where supporters choose ongoing contributions instead of one-time gifts. Think of it as a monthly giving program that fuels your mission with reliable, predictable income.

Why It's a Win-Win for Nonprofits:

• Predictable income: Say goodbye to rollercoaster fundraising! Recurring donations provide a stable financial foundation, allowing you to plan and budget with confidence.
• Reduced workload: No more chasing down individual donations. Your team can focus on what truly matters: carrying out your mission and engaging supporters.
• Deeper donor relationships: Recurring donors are your champions, passionate about your cause. Regular communication fosters loyalty and strengthens your community.

Boosting Fundraising with Recurring Giving:

• Effortless giving: Donors love the convenience. They set it up once and forget it, knowing their impact continues.
• Increased giving potential: Smaller, regular contributions add up quickly, often exceeding one-time gifts in the long run.
• Reduced acquisition costs: Retaining existing donors is far cheaper than attracting new ones. Recurring giving keeps your best supporters engaged and invested.

Why Recurring Donors are Your Rockstars:

• Rock-solid loyalty: Studies show 75% of recurring donors stick with their plans for at least six months, many for years.
• Double the generosity: Recurring donors are 75% more likely to make additional one-time gifts within a year.
• Bigger impact: On average, one-time donations from recurring donors are higher, amplifying their overall support.

Building Your Monthly Giving Program:

1. Get tech-savvy: Ensure your donor management system accepts, tracks, and reports recurring donations seamlessly.
2. Make it easy: Prominently display the recurring donation option on your website and donation forms.
3. Automate communication: Send monthly receipts and keep donors informed with targeted updates.
4. Segment your supporters: Tailor your communication to resonate with your recurring donor base.
5. Prioritize user experience: Allow donors to update payment information easily and effortlessly.

Tying The Ask To Your Mission:

This is important enough to call out separately. Don't just beg for money. Make your appeal about your mission. Craft compelling messages that showcase the impact recurring donations have on real lives. Show, don't tell. Share stories of the people your organization helps, the challenges you overcome, and the brighter future you're building – all thanks to the steady support of your monthly donors.

Inviting Supporters to Join the Program:

Once you've branded your program and honed your mission-driven appeals, you can create powerful tools:

• Branded social media assets: Eye-catching graphics and videos that tell your story and explain the program's benefits.
• Email templates: Personalized messages that resonate with different donor segments, highlighting the impact their monthly gift can make.
• Website landing page: A clear and concise explanation of the program, with easy signup options and FAQs.

Finding Your Monthly Champions:

Start by looking within your existing donor base:

• Lapsed donors: Could they give smaller, regular amounts instead of one large gift?
• Gradually increasing donors: Perhaps they're ready for a monthly commitment.
• Periodic donors: They already give multiple times a year. Make it easier for them!
• Engaged volunteers and supporters: They're passionate – invite them to join the giving circle!

Promoting Your Program:

• Targeted email campaigns: Segment your database and send personalized invitations.
• Website call to action: Add a prominent "Join Our Monthly Giving Program" button.
• Social media spotlights: Share inspiring stories of your recurring donors and their impact.
• Post-donation ask: Don't be shy! After a one-time gift, offer the option to join the program.

Connecting and Thanking Your Donors:

• Monthly email receipts: Keep them informed and engaged with regular updates.
• Impact stories and photos: Show them the real-world difference their gifts make.
• Personalized thank-you notes: A handwritten message goes a long way.

Managing and Growing Your Program:

• Track key metrics: Monitor growth, donor retention, and campaign effectiveness.
• Run regular reports: Identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Test and adapt: Experiment with different messaging and outreach strategies.
• Celebrate successes: Recognize and reward your monthly giving heroes!

Remember, a successful recurring giving program isn't a set-it-and-forget-it affair. It's a continuous cycle of nurturing relationships, showcasing impact, and making it easy for your most passionate supporters to fuel your mission one month at a time.

Also, recurring giving isn't just a fundraising tactic; it's a powerful relationship builder. By nurturing your recurring donors, you'll unlock a sustainable source of funding and cultivate a community of passionate supporters who fuel your mission for years to come. So, unlock the transformative potential of recurring giving and propel your mission forward!

In the dynamic world of social media, TikTok has evolved from its roots in music and dancing videos to become a global sensation, with over three billion downloads worldwide. As leaders in the nonprofit sector, it's essential for us to recognize the tremendous potential this platform holds.

TikTok is not merely a source of entertainment; it's a powerful tool for nonprofits to connect with a vast and engaged audience. The magic of TikTok lies in its ability to make content go viral. It offers unique opportunities for building awareness and raising donations, making it an attractive platform for organizations like ours.

Furthermore, TikTok has become a vibrant community, fostering creativity, meaningful connections, and opportunities for learning. It is shaping a new generation of activists, making it a prime choice for nonprofits looking to expand their reach, fundraise, and create compelling content without the need for advanced technical skills or production capabilities.

Launched in 2016, TikTok surged in popularity in the United States in June 2020 as young people sought entertainment during the pandemic. Today, it boasts a global presence in more than 150 countries, surpassing even Google and its services like Google Maps and Gmail in terms of accessibility. TikTok's popularity now rivals Instagram and is on the verge of overtaking Facebook.

While initially associated with a youthful audience, TikTok has transcended age barriers, captivating adults with its short, visually appealing content, especially videos. This is where our nonprofit organizations can make a significant impact.

Let's explore four essential steps for nonprofits to leverage this influential social media platform:

Immerse Yourself in TikTok's World

Dive into TikTok to observe emerging trends, the creative use of music, and the content that garners the most engagement. TikTok is a platform where people often follow trends, be it dances, music, or audio clips, and adding their unique twist to resonate with their audience. Additionally, voiceovers, where audio clips are overlaid onto videos, are both popular and straightforward to create. Nonprofits like the Catskills Animal Sanctuary, Jacksonville Humane Society, Nashville Humane Association, United Way, and the American Red Cross have effectively used such videos to raise awareness and tell their stories. While TikTok content is relatively easy to produce, investing in basic equipment like dedicated cellphones for video creation and different types of lighting can enhance the quality of your content.

Highlight Impactful Stories and Messages that Drive Donations

As nonprofits begin creating content on TikTok, they should integrate it into their existing social media strategy and communication campaigns. Explore ways to share your TikTok content across multiple platforms. Features like auto-captioning and text-to-speech conversion can make your videos more accessible. Consider creating challenges, providing informative videos, collaborating with marketing partners, and launching fundraising campaigns to leverage TikTok's potential. For example, the Movember Foundation has successfully used TikTok to promote its awareness campaigns, maintaining a consistent message and imagery across all marketing channels.

Explore Fundraising Opportunities

Once your nonprofit has established a following on TikTok, however modest, investigate the platform's fundraising features. TikTok offers donation stickers that can be added to videos and live streams to collect donations. You can also display "Fundraiser" tags, allowing users to link your nonprofit in their profile. To use these features, organizations need to create profiles on platforms like Tiltify and Benevity Causes to ensure that donations reach the right destination.

Engage with Millennials and Gen Z

TikTok's audience is predominantly younger, with over 50% under the age of 34. This demographic, comprising Millennials and Gen Zers, is digitally savvy, socially conscious, and passionate about various causes, including the environment, social justice, animal rights, and freedom of expression. They represent the future wave of donors. Engaging with these generations, particularly through TikTok, is an opportunity to tap into a passionate, tech-savvy, and socially active audience. For example, nonprofits like Diversability, focused on individuals with disabilities, have found success on TikTok by sharing videos created by and for people with different abilities.

These steps are just the beginning for nonprofits looking to harness the power of TikTok. It's clear that TikTok is here to stay, and investing time and effort in this platform can yield significant benefits for organizations like ours. Many nonprofit social media teams are already integrating TikTok into their strategies, alongside platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to expand their audience, raise awareness, and thrive in the digital age.