Tag: church

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Funding Lesson 21 – Learn How People Give. It is Changing, Fast

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How people use money is changing. In one recent study, it was found that only 31% of Canadians use cash for day-to-day transactions. Another finding shows that in the last 6 years, the amount of cash used for day-to-day use has dropped by 59%. This trend is going to continue. Cash likely will never disappear, but its use is on the decline.

You may or may not be like me, but I rarely use cash, or even my debit cards, as I primarily use my phone for all in-person and online purchases. When I go to the grocery store, events, or the mall, there are always someone fundraising or selling tickets. For a person like me, I never donate or purchase what is being sold, as I no longer carry cash.

This can be relevant to those raising funds through fundraisers, as if you are only accepting cash, you are stopping a large majority of people from donating or buying. However, this is not just about cash. It is about understanding how people give. People generally give in the easiest way possible. It is up to us to create giving systems that are easy and open to everyone.

One concern I have heard over the years from many charities is that adopting an online giving platform will cost them a small percentage of each donation. That can range from 2-5% of donations. However, that is flawed thinking. In reality, if you focus on online or electronic giving to those not currently giving, then you are getting 95% of funds from donors you were never going to have.

In a day when a large majority of people prefer not to give by cash, or any complicated method, it may be time to look at two things about your giving system: 1 – Is giving accessible to everyone? 2 – Are our giving systems as simple as possible?

Addressing our giving systems needs to happen on a regular basis. The ways people give, the types of currencies / methods are changing drastically this decade. So as non profits we don’t want to be on the losing end because we limit donations.

If you are looking for more help on creating easy giving systems and are interested in learning how to increase giving to your organization or non-profit, please contact the funding coach.

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Funding Lesson #20Building Trust Through Social Media

This may be shocking to those leading or involved with nonprofits, but one recent research study found that only 52% of Americans trust nonprofit organizations. Fears of overspending, stories of highly paid CEOs, or mismanagement of funds have chipped away at people’s trust. This can be disheartening, as it means that whatever campaign, promotion, or media you put out, it will be immediately rejected by some people.

However, I believe this is also a huge opportunity. This is where we can use social media to build something powerful. It is TRUST.

We can think social media is only about promotion, how we ask for help, or as part of a fundraising campaign. That is a mistake.

‘What if you used your social media, in part, to consistently let people see that you do what you say you do?’

This lets supporters, and future supporters, see the results of their giving, their volunteering, and support. It lets them know their contributions are really doing something, and your team is worth investing in.

Trust is built by being consistent. It is not about the spectacular. It is letting people know they can count on your organization to fulfill the mission you are a part of.

Most organizations do some form of strategy when it comes to social media. It may be time to think about what ‘Building Trust’ looks like as part of your plan. Doing so will increase the effectiveness of future campaigns and the search for volunteers and supporters.

To learn more about building trust through social media, please contact us at the Funding Coach.

www.thefundingcoach.ca

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Fundraising Lesson #15: Give Joy

In the hustle of fundraising, it’s easy to get caught up in sharing needs and asking for support. After all, we’re driven by a cause, striving to make a tangible difference in the world. But amidst the challenges, it’s crucial not to overlook the joyous moments that define our journey.

Think about it: What would your community look like if your mission thrived? It’s those glimpses of success, those stories of families finding the support they need, that paint a vivid picture of the world we’re creating together.

Let’s shift the narrative. Yes, the need is real, but so is the impact we’re making. By sharing moments of joy and success, we give our donors and supporters a compelling reason to join us on this journey.

Let’s show them the difference they’re making. Let’s celebrate the victories, big and small, that we achieve together. Because when we infuse joy into our communication, we inspire others to be part of something truly meaningful.

Together, let’s spread the joy of giving.

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Funding Lesson 13 – Build Your Donor’s Story

As organizations we understand the power of storytelling. We share tales of resilience, compassion, and transformation – the essence of our collective journey. Yet, there’s another crucial narrative unfolding: YOUR donors’ stories.

Every contribution is more than a transaction; it’s a chapter in their personal story of impact. Your supporters are not just giving; they’re investing in a narrative they couldn’t write alone. The reality is, not everyone can physically be on the front lines, but through their support, they become the unseen heroes of change.

Let’s collaborate in crafting a meaningful narrative for your donors. Help them articulate their unique role in making a difference. From the student receiving education to the community gaining access to vital resources, every story matters.

Here’s the power in it: by aiding your donors in building their story, we amplify the impact of their generosity. Their involvement becomes a part of a collective tale of positive change, a narrative that transcends geographical boundaries.

As we showcase the incredible work of our teams, volunteers, and the lives touched by our mission, let’s shine a spotlight on the silent architects of change – your donors. Together, we’ll weave a tapestry of stories that not only inspires but also ignites a ripple effect of goodwill.

Join us in this narrative-building journey, where every supporter becomes an integral character in the story of global transformation. Their commitment is more than a donation; it’s a testament to the belief that change is possible, one story at a time.

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Funding Lesson #10 – Advocacy – The Greatest Lesson

🌟 Embrace the Power of Advocacy in Fundraising 🌟

Fundraising is a realm where passion meets purpose, and the journey to becoming an exceptional fundraiser begins with a profound understanding of advocacy. In my journey through the world of fundraising, I’ve encountered two significant roadblocks that many individuals face – the courage to ask for substantial amounts and the discomfort in seeking support for personal endeavors within the nonprofit sector.

I vividly recall a meeting with multiple funders, and a colleague asked, “How can you boldly request such significant contributions?” The figures discussed seemed overwhelming, prompting a search for the source of my confidence. Was it experience, audacity, or something else entirely? The answer lies in the power of advocacy, which I’m about to share.

The second challenge pertains to those working in nonprofit organizations, charities, and faith communities who need to raise funds not just for their programs but also for their salaries. Many individuals have expressed discomfort in asking for money for themselves, viewing it as awkward, intimidating, or even morally conflicting when they are, in fact, raising funds for a mission that means the world to them.

The solution may seem obvious – you are an integral part of the mission, and it cannot function without your dedication and effort. You are the very embodiment of the mission’s purpose, its hands, and its feet. However, the discomfort persists.

To address these issues, I invited a person close to us to share their personal experience with our organization and the profound impact it had on their lives. Their heartfelt story touched everyone present, reaffirming the purpose in our work. Then, I posed a question to all: “Would you be willing to ask a donor to help someone in a similar situation?” Inspired by the moving testimony, the unanimous response was “yes.”

The key lies in recognizing that you are an advocate, not just for yourself but for the mission you represent. This shift in perspective is the cornerstone of becoming an extraordinary fundraiser. It’s when you become the voice that stands before others, passionately seeking their support to make a difference in the lives of those you care about.

While the discomfort of asking for funds, including salaries, may never completely dissipate, we can find comfort in standing up for others. This is the essence of advocacy. It empowers you to be bold, ask for help, and share your vision because you’re the bridge between compassion and action. You stand in the gap to represent the very essence of what your mission stands for.

Let advocacy be your guiding principle in fundraising, and it will revolutionize how you perceive and practice this art. Your unwavering passion and commitment will draw people to the table, inspiring them to invest, engage, and join in the mission.

In the world of fundraising, be the advocate who lights the way for change and compassion.

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Funding Lesson #2 – Know Your Purpose

A pivotal element in crafting a sustainable funding strategy is deeply comprehending the essence of your existence and your ability to articulate it.

Whether you’re a non-profit organization, a community group, a charitable entity, or a faith-based community, your journey began to address a specific need. Understanding this purpose is the first step in effectively communicating that need, setting clear objectives, and discovering how your organization can actively contribute to the solution.

So, before you proceed any further, take a moment to reflect. Why does your group exist?

This reflection is the key to unlocking the essential fundraising question: “Is this something that others would be eager to support with their contributions?”

thefundingcoach.ca