Q. - My board isn’t interested in fundraising -- what can I do to convince them otherwise?
If your organization is new to fundraising you may first need to address why philanthropy is important. It seems obvious: to raise funds for needed items, services and programs. Yet, philanthropy has several other benefits besides the obvious that are worth sharing with your board:
- Philanthropy affirms the organization’s tax-exempt status -- Nonprofit corporations enjoy exemptions from federal, state, and local taxes, and donors can write off their contributions on their individual tax returns. The IRS allows organizations to file for tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) if they fit within one of the following five identified categories:
Have a Charitable Purpose
Qualify as a Religious Group
Be considered a Scientific Organization
Serve a Literary Purpose
Qualify as an Educational Organization
State attorneys general and the IRS are placing nonprofit organizations under more and more scrutiny. When funds are raised for specific needs, services and programs, not only does this demonstrate a level of public trust, it confirms your charitable purpose and defends the nonprofit status.
- Fundraising raises awareness of your mission, programs and services -- When you are asking for funds to support specific organizational needs, you are also increasing the visibility of your organization beyond what marketing dollars alone can do. By communicating how philanthropy is making a difference and improving the lives of residents, you are setting yourself apart from competitors and using philanthropy to help create a mark of excellence.
- A commitment to philanthropy may attract board members, volunteers and other supporters -- People are attracted to successful organizations. Individuals are more likely to partner with charities with which they already have a relationship. When it is governed by best practices and driven by a plan that seeks to reach out and build relationships with people, a philanthropy program can serve as a meaningful attraction to your organization.
Sometimes board members need help in understanding the charitable purpose of your organization: What are you doing that makes a difference in the lives of people?On occasion even passionate board members need to be reminded. Be prepared to explain how people will be better, or what problem will be alleviated or resolved because of philanthropy.Hesitancy may vanish onceboard membersunderstand the need for philanthropic support and what it can accomplish.
Finally, ensure your board that their support of philanthropy does not mean that they are now committed to seek out philanthropic gifts from their friends and neighbors. Many peopledo not want to serve as solicitors no matter how much they care about the organization.Instead, ensure them that they will be invited toparticipate in the myriad of enjoyable activities that go into the fundraising process, such as, cultivating and involving potential donorsand finding ways to thank and foster long-term relationships. Presenting board members with the simple task of "building and keeping friends" is the most effective way to interest them in the process. For a no obligation discussion on engaging the board in philanthropy, please contact Karen Barr at r 603-356-3311.