As your state nonprofit association, we are here to provide resources to strengthen your organization.
As your state nonprofit association, we are here to provide resources to strengthen your organization.
The options for board/prospect engagement are endless, but the point is to consistently connect donors/prospects to the mission through trusted voices. The donor/prospect should not just hear from the board/staff to ask for money. Show a deep interest in the relationship in ways that support the donors/prospect’s interest in mission impact. The exact list should be developed based on the capacity of each organization. Less is better and consistency and authenticity is essential. Remember, fund development is a team sport, so engage the whole team in the right spot for the greatest amount of success.
| Month | Suggested Board Action | Steps for Staff |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pick up the phone and share a “Thank you for supporting -----“ mission message. Be ready to speak authentically from your heart-head to a person or voicemail. | Provide names, numbers, and other relevant information |
| 2 | Send donors/prospects a 1-page donor-orientated newsletter that highlights the impact of philanthropic support within the mission. As appropriate, highlight donor stories of their “why” for investing. Include a personal note. | Write the newsletter Prepare the mailing packets for board members |
| 3 | Host a virtual or in-person reception for donors/prospects that highlights a mission-oriented speaker. Create space for donors/prospects to connect with each other. Board members call and invite. | Organize the reception Update board members |
| 4 | Invite donor/prospect to see something their donation supports, i.e. a mission-related site visit. Attendance is optional for donors, mandatory for board/staff. (The power is in the invitation.) | Create opportunity Update board members Make sure attendance is expected Create RSVP lists |
| 5 | Email message to donor/prospect. Activate them around any public policy initiatives you are undertaking. | Create email |
| 6 | Send a personalized copy of the newsletter over email with a cover note in your email. | Write the newsletter Prepare the mailing packets for the board |
| 7 | Invite donor/prospect to hear an out-of-town speaker and a reception following the speaker. | Create the opportunity Create the reception event |
| 8 | Invite donor/prospect to work on a mission-related project together. | Create the opportunity |
| 9 | Ask for the gift. Include all board members who are willing to make the ask. | Prepare all the necessary materials Track and follow-up Train board members |
| 10 | Send a personalized thank-you note for the gift. | Write formal letter with space for customization Provide cards for personal notes |