It’s a mighty nice day here watching the dust finally settle after your last big peer-to-peer fundraising event! Think all your work is done? HOGWASH!
(If you think that, well you’re just about two sandwiches shy of a picnic.)
If you want to build a loyal following, then you have to build relationships. Your new donors gave in support of a friend or family member; now you need to make the case for why they should continue to support you. Tell them about all the great work you do year-round, that volunteering is always needed, new events are just around the corner, and that becoming a monthly donor is the best way to ensure you can continue to do the good that you do. Golly, I'm sold!
Following the Donor Cycle is the best way to ensure your new donors get the attention and acknowledgement they need to give again:
Identification – First, run your reports and find your new donors.
Cultivation – Warming up the relationship before asking for support is essential in most cases. This can be done with the 'thank you' you sent for supporting your event.
Solicitation – Too many fundraising emails never have a clear 'call to action' that lets the donor know just how much you hope they will contribute, while also urging them to give now.
Stewardship – Saying "thank you" is always necessary, but it’s just the beginning. Tell them how their gifts are making a difference.
Anyhow, I hope you have found these tips insightful. I promise you by following these tips you will make your next campaign look nicer than a glob of butter melting on a stack of pancakes.
Y’all come back now!
Hogs and Kisses,
Frank D. Pigg
PS:
What crop did the farmer plant?
Beets me! – HA!