Thursday, May 20, 2010

Know (And Improve) Thyself

In a workshop we led today, we asked participants what their fundraising capacity-building goals were for the coming year.

I was a little worried that groups might not be able to articulate a strategy for strengthening their ability to raise money (as opposed to simply naming a figure they hoped to raise).  But never fear, their self-revelations, and self-prescribed remedies, were right on target:
“Strengthen the connection between our vision, our board, and our donors.
“Become intentional about showcasing our work to cultivate our volunteers.”
“Create a development advisory committee to complement our community-based board.
“Build up our roster of supporters so we’re not as dependent on a few generous donors.”
“Directly connect our board with our fundraising plan so they understand what their part in it is.”
“Build a friendraising system for board/staff/supporters so folks don't have to reinvent the wheel every time they want to help us fundraise.”
It was inspiring to sit in the room and listen to these folks think deeply about their fundraising – and name a focus that was way beyond the direct dollars raised.

Later on, I realized it was like being privy to people’s New Year’s resolutions. Lose weight, learn guitar, master an unassisted headstand.

Self-improvement, a great and uniquely human trait.

Let’s put it to work for our organizations.

What are your capacity-building goals for fundraising for this year?

No comments:

Post a Comment