Blog

“Nobody really goes hungry in America.”

One of the best ways to deepen the connection between a donor and your organization is to let them experience your program in action. Whether that’s a site visit or a chance to talk with program alumni, a great donor visit can do more than any brochure or talking point ever will.

One of the key things any campaign needs to be successful is a strong prospective donor base. Seems obvious enough, but many organizations spend more time on the plans for their new building than they do on cultivating the donor relationships that could make that dream a reality.

I must admit that I am a bit impatient. My patience (or lack there of) has been tested in 2014 as travel delays due to weather (think polar vortex) have been maddening. I can’t wait for spring!

I looked out the window of my warm home last week to see my mail carrier dressed in a full snowsuit, heavy gloves and a hat with furry ear flaps struggling to climb over a pile of drifted snow to deliver a package. It was after 7 pm and certainly not the first time he had delivered the mail that late this week. In addition, my city’s trash and recycling crews have worked quite a few extra-long days this winter to make up for times when snow removal took precedence over refuse collection. And the steady stream of plumbers, garage door repairmen and HVAC experts coming in and out of my small neighborhood over the past seven weeks has been remarkable.

I was stunned by the phone call.

SENIOR CONSULTANT

Jason brings more than 15 years of working with not-for-profit organizations building impactful programs, establishing dynamic community partnerships, and creating capacity for the delivery of greater good.

As I travel around the country working with clients, I always emphasize the importance of finding the right volunteer leaders for your fundraising endeavors. These are usually outgoing “ring leaders” whom others rally around. They have a huge impact on campaign success.

I often find myself encouraging our nonprofit clients to spend the month of February “loving up” donors and volunteers. I’ve realized that some don’t know what I mean by that. “Bruce,” they say, “We just sent them a thank you letter. Isn’t that enough? I don’t want to bother them.”

PRESIDENT

Bruce Berglund, CFRE, offers a comprehensive fundraising portfolio in YMCA, higher education, arts and culture, social service and church fund development.