Fundraising slowdown in the Summer? here’s what to do…

The need for services, research and associated pledges is a year round one, so it’s in sharp contrast that fundraising and campaigning often take the Summer months off. Habit has gradually become tradition as so many of the larger non-profits roll out donor programs via pledge drives, lotteries or via other methods each Spring or Autumn (and sometimes both). The thinking behind the unofficial recess is that supporters and donors are taking the Summer off to be with family, travel or simply get out of the house. Each of these are naturally valid reasons that you might not hear from donors or experience added difficulty finding volunteers over the the next few months.

That’s why Summer is the perfect time to look at doing some of the things you’ve been putting off over the last nine months!

Donors are people – never forget that – and as people we want to stay connected. Ask yourself whether your charity is doing enough to engage your supporters on a consistent basis? I’ll give you an example, I purchase a small  amount of computer and office equipment on an as needed basis. Some supplies I have to purchase regularly – I was perfectly happy with my existing supplier but something I needed to order was out of stock. As a result I bought the same item from a new supplier and was pleased that it arrived much quicker and the customer service department even called to see if everything was fine with the order. From that point on I’d receive emails (reasonably) often reminding me of new products, special discounts and free shipping offers. Needless to say I’ve remained with the new supplier ever since. This speaks to the same primary issue given by donors who stop giving to a designated charity – failure to communicate.

Your donors are your customers, your lifeblood and are of course instrumental in helping a non profit reach its goal. Recognizing the support they give should be high on your priorities throughout the year but use the Summer as a chance to celebrate and cement that relationship. Donors want to feel engaged and wish to see that they are part of a non profit that is reaching goals, creating solutions and also being ethical in the stewardship of donations. Plan your Summer to keep the engagement level of donors as high as you can.

You can schedule outbound thank you calls that reaffirm the appreciation of previous support and hope for the same in the future. Remind your donors that the gift was received and is making a real difference. Share the achievements of the non profit via email or email newsletters, explain the progress that has been made and the objectives that lay ahead.Update your testimonials, keep your website content fresh and evaluate what social media tools can work for you. Tell a story from an individual who has directly benefited from the non profit.

Creating connections that keep your mission on your supporters minds will impact the effectiveness of your year-end appeal. Most importantly stay connected with your donors they deserve that and quietly expect it.

Miratel Solutions have been providing the very best in Telephone Fundraising and Lottery Management services for over a decade, please visit our site and see learn more about how we can help you with your non profit.