Page 52 - C&A's Nonprofit Board Guide

7. TEACH THEM STORYTELLING AND PRACTICE REGULARLY.

Help board members develop personal stories about your organization’s impact. Regular
practice builds confidence and effectiveness in fundraising efforts.

8. START WITH SMALL, MANAGEABLE TASKS.
Begin with activities like writing thank-you notes or hosting appreciation events. As
board members gain confidence, gradually involve them in more significant roles like
HOW TO ENGAGE YOUR donor outreach and solicitation.
BOARD IN FUNDRAISING 9. LEAD BY EXAMPLE AND SHOW PASSION.

As CEO or Executive Director, your enthusiasm for the organization’s mission is
contagious. Lead fundraising efforts with passion to inspire and motivate your board
members.
B ehind every successful nonprofit’s fundraising efforts stands a dedicated Board 10. APPRECIATE THEIR EFFORTS GENUINELY.
of Directors. While they may not always see themselves as fundraisers, engaging
your board members in the process can significantly boost your organization’s
financial health and community impact. Here are practical strategies to get your board Regularly thank and acknowledge board members for their fundraising contributions.
members involved and excited about fundraising: Genuine appreciation fosters a supportive environment where board members are more
willing to take on challenges.
1. KNOW WHAT YOU WANT AND NEED FROM YOUR BOARD MEMBERS.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Before engaging board members in fundraising, ensure they understand your
organization’s vision and where they fit into advancing it. Respecting different attitudes towards fundraising: Understand and respect board
members’ hesitations about solicitation, rooted in cultural, religious, or personal values.
2. RECRUIT WITH A PLAN AND CLEAR EXPECTATIONS. Encourage participation in other aspects of fundraising that align with their comfort
When recruiting new board members, share your organization’s goals and what is level and skills.
expected regarding fundraising efforts.
PRACTICAL ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES
3. UNDERSTAND THEIR STRENGTHS AND INTERESTS. ► Prospect Cultivation: Involve board members in cultivating relationships with potential
donors before solicitation.
Take time to know your board members individually. Match their skills and interests
with fundraising opportunities for better engagement and results. ► Elevator Pitches: Develop concise organization pitches for board members to use in
various settings.
4. EDUCATE THEM ABOUT FUNDRAISING. ► Social Media Support: Provide board members with pre-prepared content or encourage
them to share their own experiences online.
Clarify that fundraising involves more than asking for money. It begins with building
personal connections to your organization’s mission and can include various activities ► Events and Meetings: Invite board members to host small gatherings or accompany
like storytelling and donor stewardship. you on donor meetings to enhance credibility.

5. KEEP FUNDRAISING A PRIORITY IN BOARD MEETINGS. PROMOTING DONOR STEWARDSHIP
Regularly highlight fundraising successes and emphasize the importance of each board Encourage board members to participate in stewardship activities like making thank-
member’s role in achieving organizational goals. you calls, writing notes, and reaching out to donors. Their involvement reinforces donor
relationships and shows gratitude for support.
6. CREATE PERSONAL CONNECTIONS TO THE MISSION.
By engaging your board members in meaningful ways, you not only strengthen your
Require board members to participate in or observe your organization’s mission in fundraising efforts but also deepen their commitment to your organization’s mission.
action. This firsthand experience strengthens their commitment and ability to advocate Cultivating a fundraising board takes time and effort, but the results can lead to sustained
effectively. growth and impact for your nonprofit.

51 52