Prospect research is difficult. Asking for upgrades, major gifts and bequests is something that every fundraiser wants to do. But identifying the best supporters in your lists for those types of asks can be an even bigger challenge than the ask itself. Oftentimes we look only to the wealthy. But [...]
There's little argument that long-term, loyal donors are your best prospects for things like major gifts and planned gifts. Monthly donors, active volunteers, current and former service recipients, and the securely retired (especially the childless and empty-nesters) are also great prospects. But who else might be lurking in your donor [...]
For the typical nonprofit, the majority of individual donors will send in their money during the fourth quarter of the year. That means we're quickly approaching the time when you need to have your database and procedures in place for the giving season. Use the slower period between June and [...]
Since I have the good fortune of working with and traveling to see thousands of fundraisers every year, I often get asked the question: “What's the best thing we can do to improve our fundraising results this year?” The answer I give is usually received with surprise. Perhaps they are [...]
Not too long ago, I helped a client assess the success of his year-end appeal. He had sent a letter – the same letter – to all 15,000 names in his database. […]
One of the most popular metaphors for the donor retention issue is a leaky bucket. And with good reason. We spend a lot of time and effort acquiring new donors, only for 40% or more on average to never give again. We’re caught in an endless cycle of refilling the [...]
Great storytelling starts with knowing who you are talking to. […]
The most important fundraising tool you have at your disposal is your donor database. It is your organization’s history. It can tell you who your friends and most loyal supporters are. Through thick and thin it sticks with us and makes it possible for us to be effective fundraisers. It [...]
Do you really need a donor database? I mean, REALLY need it? Yes. Shortest. Blog. Ever. Fine, I’ll expound. […]
Donor management software, donor databases and fundraising CRMs are great ways to collect and store donor data, but are you using those tools to help retain your donors? Too often, donor databases are passive systems. But by focusing on building a donor database that supports your cause year after year, [...]
So you’ve just finalized plans to convert your donor database to a new platform after days, weeks, or maybe months researching your selection. Congrats! […]
In my years of experience working with nonprofits as a support specialist, trainer and database administrator, one thing has always remained true: Your donor database is only as good as the data you put into it. […]