Tag: coaching

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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 #5 – Donors are Partners

In the world of non-profits, the magic happens when you realize you’re not in this journey alone. Most non-profits are on a mission to provide essential services or products that are lifelines for the communities they serve.

But they can’t do it in isolation. Non-profits exist because of the remarkable synergy between dedicated individuals and generous donors. It’s time to broaden your perspective on what constitutes your team. Beyond your staff and volunteers, your donors should be recognized as an integral part of this powerful force.

When you shift your mindset and embrace donors as partners, you’ll witness a transformation in your organization that touches every aspect of your work.

Communication is Key: When you acknowledge donors as partners, your communication becomes more inclusive and authentic. Sharing stories of impact and progress becomes a collective effort, strengthening your bonds with those who support your cause.

Value and Retain: Treating your donors as partners ensures they feel valued and appreciated. They’re more likely to stay engaged and continue their support when they know they’re a fundamental part of your team.

Amplify Giving: Donor partnerships also lead to increased giving. People are more inclined to give when they feel like they’re making a real difference and are part of something bigger.

Cultivate Gratitude: This shift in perspective fosters an atmosphere of gratitude. Donors and team members alike will feel thankful for being part of an organization that values their contributions.

So, let’s reframe our approach and make donors an essential part of the team. When donors are seen as partners, the potential for impact is boundless.

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Welcome

I am delighted to announce my involvement with a dynamic new venture known as ‘The Funding Coach.’ We are set to make our grand debut on November 1st with a noble mission at heart: to empower community groups, non-profits, and faith communities, enabling them to establish a strong financial footing.

The most common hurdle that non-profits face, often leading to their inability to fulfill their missions or even closure, is the lack of adequate funding. These organizations play a pivotal role in uniting communities to address critical social issues such as poverty, youth programs, support for families and seniors, as well as the provision of essential resources like food and meals.

The Funding Coach has been conceived with the sole purpose of providing assistance to these groups. Whether they are feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, or simply seeking strategies for sustainability and growth, we are here to lend a helping hand.

Stay tuned for more comprehensive information, and don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any inquiries or wish to learn more about our mission.