Soapbox Engage Blog

Issue 103

Happy Tuesday, Fundraisers! A few weeks ago, we highlighted some regular Fundraising Weekly contributors on our social media accounts in honor of the 100th edition of this newsletter. I realize not all of you follow our socials (though you can here!), so I wanted to share some of their excellent advice here. Nonprofit fundraising expert Ann Green said:

“One of the most important aspects of fundraising is building relationships. This includes thanking your donors and keeping them updated and engaged throughout the year.”

It’s easy to remember donors during large campaigns and year-end giving season, but sharing your appreciation, projects, and progress with them year-round helps remind them of the community their gift impacts. Make sure you scroll down to check out Ann’s contribution to the Fundraising Weekly this week— a post about the importance of recurring donations and how to establish and maintain relationships with monthly donors.

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Great Fundraising Posts

7 PTA Fundraising Ideas to Raise More for Your School

Tim Forbes (Soapbox Engage)

Schools have faced serious challenges in recent years, and in many cases, funding has been incredibly low. Students need resources to learn and thrive, which means the burden of meeting these needs often falls on their dedicated teachers. Luckily, a supportive PTA can make a huge difference! In this blog, Tim shares tips for best PTA fundraising practices, as well as 7 exciting fundraiser ideas that are sure to be a success.

Why Fundraisers Must Understand the 6 Common Elements of Every Donor’s Hero Story

Dr. Russel James (MarketSmart)

As human beings, we are hardwired to communicate by story. In particular, “the hero story,” has been hardwired into our psyches as we’ve so frequently learned by observing a hero’s journey. In this blog, Dr. Russel James shares how philanthropy gives a donor their own chance to be heroic. As fundraisers, understanding the 6 elements of a donor’s hero story has a transformational impact.

Have You Earned Your Donors’ Trust?

Sue Citro (NonProfitPro)

Trust is essential to any relationship, and that is certainly true when it comes to philanthropy. Many nonprofit supporters say an organization must earn their trust before they support them. And there is always more to be done to build the relationship between a nonprofit and its supporters. Check out this blog for some ideas on how to earn your supporters’ trust, by giving them a special, behind the scenes experience!

Building a Board of Fundraisers

- (nonprofit hub)

Thinking about the board of directors can often inspire anxiety in many nonprofit professionals. But an engaged and passionate board is able to contribute so much towards an organization’s success. And fundraising can be one major contribution! This blog shares tips for building an engaged board, and how those members can play a key role in your fundraising plans.

How to Build Relationships With Your Monthly Donors

Ann Green (Ann Green’s Nonprofit Blog)

Monthly donors are a major asset to an organization. They can often be relied on during times of economic uncertainty, like we saw at the start of the pandemic. It’s important not to take these donors for granted, and to devote time to connecting with them. In this blog, Ann shares tips on unique ways to communicate and build relationships with those who give monthly.

Do You Want Partners or Admirers?

Jeff Brooks (Future Fundraising Now)

It can be tempting to send your donors a letter listing all of your organization’s accomplishments. Their trust is important, and we need them to know we’re competently reaching our goals. But a letter illustrating only accomplishments won’t give them a reason to donate! This blog post highlights the difference between communication that inspires a donor to admire, vs. inviting them to be a partner in fixing a problem.

6 Things You Can Do This Summer to Prepare for Fall Fundraising

Amy Eisenstein (Amy Eisenstein)

Fundraising is frequently slower in the summertime, as both donors and staff are away on vacation. Luckily, the slowdown and quiet time provides a great opportunity to plan ahead! Check out this blog post for 6 things you can do to prepare for the mad dash of fundraising in the fall.

Feel Good or Fear? How You Can Move Donors to Act

Mary Cahalane (Hands On Fundraising)

There is a tricky balance between making donors feel good about all that’s been accomplished, while also emphasizing the urgent need for their donations. Fundraising professionals may sometimes lean too far one way or the other. In this blog, Mary shares tips about how to pair fear alongside hope of a better outcome to urge supporters to donate.

What Your Next Print Newsletter Should Be Like

Steven (The Better Fundraising Co.)

A print newsletter is a powerful tool for delighting donors and raising money. This post is part of a series about building an effective print newsletter. In this installment, Steven shares tactical ideas for improving your print newsletter that has been battle-tested by thousands of nonprofits.