The Quiet Voice of a Forgotten Donor
A voice in the crowd talks about how philanthropy is losing its footing
This week, I found this article by Theodore Wagenaar in the Chronicle of Philanthropy. It would not be to much of a stretch to say that Mr. Wagenaar is a typical philanthropic donor to a nonprofit organization. According to this short biographical sketch, he is professor emertius of sociology at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He volunteers with this local hospice and each spring he can be found helping seniors fill out tax returns with a program coordinated between the United Way and the AARP. His voice is an important one when it comes to nonprofit organizations thinking about these small, but consistent donors that keep our light on and our services moving foward.
In the digital age, fostering meaningful relationships between nonprofits and donors is crucial for the sustainability and success of charitable organizations. This article, penned by a passionate baby boomer philanthropist, sheds light on the inadequacies of some nonprofits in effectively engaging with individual donors. Wagenaar emphasizes the need for nonprofits to improve their communication strategies and transparency to maintain long-term support. This response delves into the key concerns raised by the author and provides recommendations on how nonprofits can enhance their donor engagement practices.
Wagenaar suggests that nonprofits tend to focus primarily on securing large donations, neglecting the potential impact of smaller gifts. However, small donations have the power to build a broad base of long-term support. By recognizing the value of all donors, nonprofits can diversify their funding sources, mitigate risks, and create a sustainable donor network.
The author highlights the significance of cultivating long-term relationships with donors, as many baby boomers base their eventual estate gifts on the responses and interactions they receive from nonprofits. Regular updates, invitations to visit organizations, and opportunities to engage with staff and beneficiaries can foster a sense of connection, encourage continued support, and strengthen the likelihood of future substantial contributions.
Understanding donors' backgrounds, interests, and passions is essential in building strong relationships. By actively listening and engaging in conversations, nonprofits can identify philanthropic desires and tailor their communication accordingly. This personalized approach allows nonprofits to align their missions with the donors' goals, facilitating a deeper connection and potentially inspiring increased giving.
Wagenaar also hits on somehting every nonprofit should know; timely acknowledgement of donations is vital to donor satisfaction. Nonprofits should promptly acknowledge contributions, ideally through email, to assure donors that their gifts have been received and appreciated. Furthermore, nonprofits must issue correct and detailed receipts, accurately reflecting the nature of the donation, to avoid any confusion regarding tax deductions and potential additional scrutiny from the IRS.
When it comeso events, the article argues that galas, often seen as exclusive events, may not resonate with potential donors considering organizations for their estate plans. To cultivate a sense of inclusivity and bridge the gap between donors and beneficiaries, nonprofits should consider organizing alternative events, such as casual social gatherings, where donors can interact with staff and beneficiaries in a relaxed environment.
Transparency plays a vital role in donor trust and satisfaction, perhaps there is no other trait a nonprofit must continually exhibit that keeping the trust of the public. Nonprofits should be proactive in sharing information about how funds are utilized. Immediate communication about the specific plans for a donation and subsequent updates on the impact achieved can instill confidence in donors and demonstrate the organization's commitment to stewarding funds responsibly. For programs such as college scholarships, nonprofits should provide detailed information on the recipients, amounts awarded, and any additional aid provided to avoid displacing existing financial assistance.
In the final analysis, the concerns expressed by Wagenaar reflect a common sentiment among many smaller philanthropists who are passionate about supporting nonprofits. Donor engagement is a two-way street, requiring proactive efforts from both nonprofits and donors. By prioritizing effective communication, prompt responses, personalization, inclusivity, and transparency, nonprofits can build strong relationships with donors. Through these improvements, nonprofits can enhance donor satisfaction, secure long-term support, and ultimately increase their capacity to make a lasting impact on the causes they serve.
The Weekly Notebook
A few notes and ideas of things I am seeing and hearing on the nonprofit world.
Our Other Publication is Growing!
I recently started a new substack that is focusing on my work here in my hometown of Troy, Ohio and it is growing like the grass in yard after the much needed rain this week! The Civic Capacity substack has been stewarding the positive energy that came from a close Mayoral election into productive conversations about our community. Even if you aren’t from the Troy community, I do believe you will find some interesting ideas and concepts about local government and I would love for you to be a part of the conversation we are having over there!
Please check it out and let me know what you think! You can find it here:
Now Hiring!
I have a nonprofit in Sidney, Ohio that has reached out to me looking for a new Executive Director. I can tell you that this a very strong organization that needs leadership that has strong entrepreneurial and staff management skills. If you have any interest, please drop me a line at pinnaclestrategiesltd@gmail.com and let’s talk!
The Air Force Marathon at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio is also looking for a non-profit professional. Learn more here: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/732561200
If you or your nonprofit would like to advertise a job opening here, please shoot me an email at pinnaclestrategiesltd@gmail.com
How Can We Work Together?
Did you know that Pinnacle Strategies works individually with nonprofit and public sector leaders to help them solve problems, achieve goals and gain confidence in their roles?
Why?
Because, this work is hard and it’s often a lonely road. Our nonprofit and public sector leaders need people that they can talk to to get solid advice and encouragement to do the work that is in front of them. If you feel that this can be of value to you, or a member of your team, please reach out to pinnaclestrategiesltd@gmail.com and let’s talk.
Ready to Learn Something New?
One of the prettiest cities in the Midwest is Indianapolis and travelling there can open a perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and meet new professionals in the field. I would encourage you to look at some of the offerings of The Fund Raising School at the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University’s campus in Indianapolis. The professional development school has great programming both on-line and in-person both in Indianapolis and at other sites across the country. Take a look at their course offerings here!
Online Learning Options from Texas A&M Announced
If travelling for professional development isn’t in the cards (or the budget), the Center for Nonprofits at Texas A&M University has some great offerings! I recently enrolled in one of their certificate programs and really enjoyed the online format and the online discussions that were developed. It was time and money well spent and I would highly recommend this program, especially for early or mid-career professionals. The next session begins in early February and you can learn more here!
Other Ways to Connect
Our coaching practice has openings and it has been a blast working with nonprofit leaders all across the country! If you are interested in working with me to get your nonprofit organization on a track to achieve the big missions you have, please reach out to me at pinnaclestrategiesltd@gmail.com.
Here are some other ways you can keep in contact with Pinnacle Strategies!
Check us out on our LinkedIn Page
Check us out on the Celebrating Leadership Facebook Page.
Want to help support this newsletter?
I hope you have found value in this newsletter. If you have found it valuable and want to help, the best thing you can do is “hit the heart”! By liking this post, you help other people interact with it. Also, sharing and commenting is very helpful as well. Thank you.