Breaking Down Barriers So You Can Raise More Money

Fundraising shouldn't be treated as a necessary evil but as an opportunity to cultivate support for an important cause.

People enjoy giving to organizations that are making a real difference. It is the nonprofit's privilege and responsibility to make giving opportunities accessible and relevant to donors.

Accessible? Do you make it easy to donate - whether by pledge, check, credit card, or other giving vehicles? Do you force donors to provide lots of detailed information, or do you focus on the bare essentials?

Relevant? Do you ask for support in a way that depicts the need clearly? Does the mission seem like a string of related words, or do you articulate your critical role in the community?

Finally, do you pave the way for future giving? Tell your donors thank you, and then tell them again, again, and again. Show them the impact of their gift - by sharing a success story, giving a tour of the program, asking for their involvement in a critical decision, or reporting program outcomes.

How else can you break down barriers that inhibit financial support? Please leave a comment with your recommendation!

Read more from Guest Blogger Jessica Journey on her blog about nonprofits, fundraising, and marketing: www.jessicajourney.com