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During
the fourth quarter, everyone is looking for the most effective
fundraising ideas.
Two successful ideas this year for several non-profit organizations
in my world featured a Dinner/Silent & Live Auction format and home
desserts with a Fall Harvest theme. Both events included specific
donation options that participants could choose to designate on
behalf of a loved one.
Designated gifts. Providing donors multiple choices. That seems to
be the formula for a successful event or campaign this fall. While
events are important, they are certainly no substitute for engaging
individual donors.
With most Christian-formatted Christian radio stations receiving
more than 65% of their income from individual contributors, a fourth
quarter strategy that de-emphasizes personal connection with donors
is ill-conceived. Here's where your board members can join in
the fun of donor connections. Want some tips for helping them
experience joy in helping to advance the cause of your organization?
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Ask
them to provide 15 new names for cultivation annually.
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Suggest
that they personally call or visit donors and thank them for their
gifts and interest. Board members can tell them why they have made
the organization one of your priorities and ask the donor why they
have done the same.
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Ask
them to enthusiastically attend and/or volunteer for your
organization’s special events and invite their friends and
colleagues.
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Ask
friends and family to provide a special birthday or anniversary
contribution in your name.
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Make a
request to the community groups in which they hold membership to
sponsor events to benefit your organization.
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Celebrate the board members accomplishments privately and
publicly. Help them see how their contributions of time and
resources make a big difference!
Without
fail, in my 25 years of fundraising leadership experience, I have
watched organizations reach their fourth quarter goals when they
deploy special agents - - their board members - - in meaningful
connection times with top donors and prospects. The countdown until
2011 is underway. Ready to get your team
on the field?
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With 25 years of experience in corporate and non-profit leadership
positions and almost a generation of experience in listener
supported Christian radio, Mark Kordic helps radio stations across
the country grow income from major donors and pledges. Mark also
assists several missions organizations in their growth
strategies. Before joining Advocace, Mark was the Director of Media
Advancement for CDR Radio Network, the media division of Cedarville
University in Cedarville, OH. Kordic also previously served as
assistant pastor at Shawnee Hills Baptist Church in Jamestown, OH.
Before joining Advocace, Mark was the Director of Media Advancement
for CDR Radio Network-The PATH®, the media division of Cedarville
University in Cedarville, OH. At The PATH® he successfully
served in a number of marketing and executive positions, helping
fund network expansion. Kordic also previously served as assistant
pastor at Shawnee Hills Baptist Church in Jamestown, OH.
Contact Mark by e-mail at
mark.kordic@advocace.com
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