Non-profit

, , , ,

Find and hire the best fundraising staff

cheerful black waitress standing at counter

Hiring the right fundraising staff can make all the difference for a nonprofit organisation. Fundraisers are responsible for securing the resources necessary to support the organization’s mission, so it is important to find individuals who not only have the skills and experience to get the job done, but who also share the organisation’s values and passion.

Key attributes to seek in candidates

  1. Define the role and responsibilities
    • Before you start the hiring process, it is important to have a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities you are looking to fill
    • This will help you to identify the key qualifications and skills of ideal candidates
    • It will also help you to communicate clearly to potential candidates what you are looking for and what they can expect in the role
  2. Look for a passion for the mission
    • When looking for fundraising staff, it is important to find individuals who are passionate about the organisation’s mission
    • This passion will drive them to work harder, think more creatively, and be more effective in securing resources for the organisation
    • When interviewing candidates, ask about their motivations for working in the nonprofit sector and what specifically draws them to your organisation
  3. Seek out experience and proven success
    • While passion is important, it is also important to find candidates who have experience and proven success in fundraising
    • This includes experience in developing and implementing fundraising strategies, as well as a track record of meeting or exceeding fundraising goals
    • When evaluating candidates, look for individuals who have a deep understanding of fundraising best practices and a history of success in securing donations from a variety of sources
  4. Look for a team player
    • Fundraising is often a team effort, so it is important to find candidates who are able to work well with others
    • Look for individuals who are collaborative, communicative, and able to build strong relationships with stakeholders both inside and outside of the organisation
  5. Consider personality and communication skills
    • It is important to find candidates who have the right personality and communication skills for the role
    • Fundraisers need to be able to articulate the organisation’s mission and vision in a compelling way, and they need to be able to build strong relationships with donors and stakeholders
    • When evaluating candidates, look for individuals who are personable, articulate, and able to connect with others in a genuine way

Hiring the right fundraising staff is critical to the success of any nonprofit organisation. By focusing on passion for the mission, experience and success, team player mentality, and personality and communication skills, organizations can find fundraising staff who will shine and help to secure the resources necessary to support their mission.

, , , ,

Are cheques soon to be a thing of the past?

You and I likely do not have a checking account with our Australian bank. While very popular in the United States, checking accounts are already becoming history in this country. In 2021, less than two cheques were written per household. This is down from 50 per household in the 1980s. Due to consumer demand and safer, electronic payment options, cheques could be faded out sooner than many can predict.

What would your charity do if you were given a month or two notice that cheques were going to be history in the Australian banking system? It happened in New Zealand.

Impact of a loss of cheques as a pay method

The change in the banking system would impact elderly donors the most. If cheques were to go away in the Australian banking system, it would have an impact on charitable giving in a few ways.

  1. Donation collection
    • Many charities still rely on cheques as a means of collecting donations from supporters
    • Charities would have to find alternative ways of collecting donations
    • This could include using online payment platforms or setting up direct debit arrangements
    • However, not all donors may be comfortable with online payments or may prefer to donate via cheque
  2. Administration costs
    • Charities would need to invest in new systems and technologies to manage and process donations through alternative means
    • This could come at a cost to charities, particularly for smaller organisations with limited resources
  3. Donor demographics
    • It’s important to note that some donors, particularly older donors, may not be comfortable with using online payment methods and prefer to donate via cheque
    • Removing cheques could result in a loss of donations from this demographic, which may impact some charities that rely on this group of donors

Overall, if cheques were to go away in the Australian banking system, charities would need to adapt their donation collection methods, invest in new systems and technologies, and potentially face a loss of donations from some donors. However, it’s also possible that alternative methods of donation collection could be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.

, , ,

Giving day platforms – selecting the best one for your organisation

Giving days have become an increasingly popular way for charities and non-profit organisations to raise funds and awareness for their causes. These days typically involve a 24-hour period of intensive fundraising activities, often centred around a specific event or theme. One of the most important decisions that charities need to make when planning a giving day is which of the giving day platforms to use to collect donations. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the key factors that charities should consider when selecting a giving day platform.

In the Asia-Pacific market Charidy is the most widely known platform. Other third-party fundraising platforms now offering functionality for giving days include: GoFundraise, Funraisin, Grassrootz, MyCause, GiveEasy, Raisely, and many others. With a competitive space in our market, what are the key components to seek in a giving platform?

Top five requirements for giving day platforms

  1. Ease of Use and User Experience

The first thing to consider when selecting a giving day platform is the ease of use and user experience. A platform that is difficult to navigate or confusing for donors to use can lead to frustration and result in fewer donations. Look for a platform that is intuitive, user-friendly, and has a simple and straightforward donation process. Additionally, consider the platform’s ability to handle high traffic volumes without crashing or experiencing technical difficulties.

  1. Security and Reliability

The security and reliability of the platform are also crucial factors to consider. You want to make sure that the platform you choose is secure and can protect donors’ sensitive information. Look for a platform that is PCI compliant and offers robust security features such as encryption and two-factor authentication. Additionally, you want to ensure that the platform has a proven track record of reliability and uptime.

  1. Customisability and Flexibility

Charities should also look for a platform that offers customisability and flexibility. This allows them to tailor their giving day to their unique needs and branding. Look for a platform that allows you to customize your donation pages, emails, and other communication materials. Additionally, consider whether the platform can integrate with your existing systems and tools, such as your CRM or marketing automation software.

  1. Payment Processing Fees

Payment processing fees are an inevitable part of any giving day platform, but the fees charged can vary widely. Charities should carefully evaluate the fees associated with each platform and consider how they will impact their fundraising goals. Look for a platform that offers competitive processing fees and transparent pricing structures.

  1. Additional Features and Support

Finally, charities should consider any additional features and support that the platform offers. This could include features such as peer-to-peer fundraising, social media integrations, and analytics and reporting tools. Additionally, consider the level of support offered by the platform, including customer service, technical support, and training resources.

In conclusion, selecting a giving day platform is a crucial decision for any charity or non-profit organisation. By considering factors such as ease of use, security, customizability, payment processing fees, and additional features and support, charities can select a platform that meets their unique needs and maximises their fundraising potential.

, , , , , , ,

First gift anniversaries are important to remember

Stewardship is an important part of fundraising. It is the act of acknowledging and appreciating donors for their contributions to your organisation. On first gift anniversaries, it is a great opportunity to show your gratitude and continue to build a strong relationship with your donor.

Top ideas to steward donors on first gift anniversaries

Here are the top ways to steward your donors on the anniversary of their first gift to your organisation.

  1. Personalized Communication
    • A personalized message is a great way to make a donor feel valued and appreciated
    • Write a handwritten note or send an email thanking them for their continued support
    • Let them know how their donation has made an impact
    • Be specific and include stories or statistics to show the impact of their gift
  2. Recognition
    • Recognise your donor’s anniversary gift by highlighting their name in your newsletter, social media, or on your website
    • This not only shows your appreciation but also helps build a sense of community among your supporters
  3. Upgrade to a Higher Giving Level
    • Consider offering your donor the opportunity to upgrade their giving level
    • This could be a great way to show your appreciation for their past support and encourage them to make an even bigger impact in the future
  4. Personalized Tour or Visit
    • Invite your donor for a tour of your organisation or for a visit to see the impact of their gift firsthand
    • This is a great opportunity to connect with them on a personal level and show them how their gift is making a difference
  5. Special Event Invitation
    • Invite your donor to a special event, such as a gala or fundraising event
    • This is a great way to show your appreciation and provide them with an opportunity to connect with other supporters of your organisation
  6. Thank You Gift
    • Depending on the size of their first donation, a small token of appreciation, such as a gift card, a book, or a personalized item, can go a long way in showing your gratitude for your donor’s support
    • Choose something that is meaningful and relevant to their interests
  7. Report on Progress
    • Provide your donor with a report on the progress made towards your organisation’s goals
    • This is a great way to show the impact of their gift and let them know that their support is making a difference

By incorporating these strategies, you can build a strong relationship with your donors and ensure that they feel appreciated and valued. On the first gift anniversaries, take the time to thank them for their support and show them how much their contribution has made an impact.

, , , ,

Gifts in wills program in five steps

Starting a gifts in wills (also known as bequests or legacy giving) program can be a great way to secure long-term funding for your nonprofit organisation. However, it can be difficult to know where to start, especially if you have limited resources or have never done it before. In this blog post, we will provide some tips and best practices to help you start a successful gifts in wills program from scratch.

Tips and best practices

  1. Assess your organization’s readiness

Before starting a gifts in wills program, it is important to assess whether your organisation is ready to receive and manage bequests. This includes having a clear understanding of your nonprofit’s mission, goals, and funding needs. It also involves ensuring that you have the necessary infrastructure, including a system for processing bequests, a way to track gifts and donors, and a system for acknowledging gifts.

  1. Develop a plan

Once you have assessed your organization’s readiness, it’s time to develop a plan. This includes setting realistic goals, identifying potential supporters, and creating a timeline for your program. You should also consider creating marketing materials that clearly explain the gifts in wills process and the impact it can have on your organization.

  1. Build relationships with potential supporters

One of the key elements of a successful gifts in wills program is building strong relationships with potential supporters. This includes identifying and reaching out to current and potential donors who may be interested in leaving a gift in their will. It also involves developing and maintaining strong relationships with professional advisors, such as estate planners, attorneys, and financial advisors, who can help spread the word about your program to their clients.

  1. Provide education and support

Another important aspect of a successful gifts in wills program is providing education and support to your supporters. This can include offering information about the benefits of leaving a gift in their will, the different types of gifts that can be made, and the impact that their gift will have on your organization. You should also provide clear, concise instructions on how to include your organization in their will, and make sure that your supporters have the necessary information to make an informed decision.

  1. Acknowledge and steward gifts

Finally, it’s important to acknowledge and steward gifts that are received through your gifts in wills program. This includes sending a heartfelt thank you to donors, providing updates on the impact of their gift, and keeping them informed about your organisation’s work.

Starting a gifts in wills program can be a challenging but rewarding process. By following these tips, you can ensure that your program is successful and helps secure long-term funding for your organization. Good luck!

, , , , ,

Steps to a successful fundraising plan

Developing a fundraising strategic plan can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary step in achieving the financial stability and growth of any organisation. A successful fundraising plan requires careful planning, research, and attention to detail, but with the right components in place, it can be a powerful tool for achieving your organisation’s goals.

Essential components to include in your fundraising strategic plan

  1. Mission and Vision
    • The first step in developing a fundraising plan is to articulate the mission and vision of your organisation
    • This includes a clear statement of what your organisation does, who it serves, and what impact you hope to have
    • Having a strong and well-defined mission and vision will provide a framework for the rest of your fundraising plan and help you stay focused on your goals
  2. Goals and Objectives
    • Next, you need to define specific and measurable goals and objectives for your fundraising plan
    • These should align with your organization’s mission and vision and should be achievable within a specific timeframe
    • Examples of goals might include increasing overall fundraising revenue, diversifying your donor base, or launching a new fundraising campaign.
  3. SWOT Analysis
    • A SWOT analysis is a useful tool for evaluating your organisation’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
    • This information can help you identify areas where you need to focus your efforts and make informed decisions about the strategies and tactics you’ll use to reach your goals
  4. Target Donor Audience
    • Knowing your target donor audience is essential to developing a successful fundraising plan
    • You need to understand who are your potential donors
    • Further, you need to understand what motivates them to give, and how you can best reach them
    • Consider factors such as age, income, interests, and giving history when defining your target audience
  5. Fundraising Channels
    • There are many different channels you can use to raise funds, including:
    • Direct mail, online giving, major gifts, grant writing, and more
    • You need to consider which channels are best suited to your target audience
    • Consider which will help you achieve your goals
    • Consider also how you can make the most of technology to reach your donors and make the giving process as easy as possible
  6. Budget and Timeline
    • Developing a budget and timeline is essential to ensuring the success of your fundraising plan
    • You need to understand what resources are required to implement your plan
    • Further, explore how much money you need to raise, and when you need to raise it
    • Having a clear budget and timeline will help you stay on track and ensure that you’re making the best use of your resources
  7. Evaluation and Tracking
    • Finally, it’s essential to have a system in place for evaluating and tracking your progress against your goals
    • This will allow you to make any necessary adjustments to your plan and ensure that you’re on track to achieve your desired results

With careful planning and attention to detail, you can develop a successful fundraising plan that will help you achieve your organisation’s financial stability and growth.

, , , , , ,

Fundraising – an art or a science?

Fundraising has long been a topic of debate among nonprofit professionals, with some arguing that it is an art and others believing it to be a science. While there is evidence to support both sides, the truth is likely somewhere in between.

Fundraising as an Art

The argument for charity fundraising as an art centres around the idea that success in this field requires creativity, intuition, and emotional intelligence. Proponents argue that effective fundraising is not just about numbers and data, but also about building relationships and inspiring others to give. They suggest that the best fundraisers have a natural talent for connecting with people and telling stories that resonate with donors and inspire them to give.

For example, a fundraiser with a knack for storytelling might use emotional appeals and vivid imagery to inspire donors to support a particular cause. Or, a fundraiser who excels at building relationships might foster a sense of community among donors and encourage them to give collectively.

Fundraising as a Science

On the other hand, proponents of charity fundraising as a science argue that it is based on data, research, and a systematic approach to decision making. They suggest that effective fundraising requires an understanding of donor behavior and a scientific approach to testing and refining strategies. For example, a scientific fundraiser might use data analysis to identify the best time and channel for reaching out to donors, or use A/B testing to determine the most effective messaging for inspiring giving.

In this view, fundraising is not just about telling stories and building relationships, but also about using evidence-based strategies to maximize results. Fundraisers who approach their work as a science are more likely to focus on metrics like conversion rates, donor lifetime value, and return on investment.

A Balance of Art and Science

The truth is likely somewhere in between. While both art and science play a role in charity fundraising, the most effective approach is likely a balance of both. Fundraisers who are skilled at both storytelling and data analysis are likely to be the most successful, as they can use data to inform their creative decisions and craft stories that resonate with donors.

For example, a fundraiser who uses data to understand the motivations and behaviour of their target audience is more likely to craft a message that resonates with them. Conversely, a fundraiser skilled at storytelling but lacks data-driven insights is more likely to miss the mark when it comes to inspiring giving.

In conclusion, fundraising is both an art and a science. Success in this field requires a combination of creativity, emotional intelligence, and data-driven insights. Fundraisers who approach their work with a balanced perspective are likely to be the most effective and make the biggest impact for their causes.

, , , ,

Developing a Three-Year Fundraising Strategy with a Consultant

As a non-profit organisation, the goal is to generate increased funding to support your cause and make a positive impact on the world. To achieve this goal, it is important to have a comprehensive and well-structured fundraising strategy in place. However, creating such a strategy can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to fundraising or have limited resources. This is where a consultant can be of great help.

A consultant can bring in valuable expertise and knowledge to help you create a successful fundraising strategy. They can help you identify and evaluate your organization’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. They can also help you to establish realistic goals and objectives and to plan how to reach those goals through a variety of fundraising channels.

Fundraising strategy

Tips to get the most out of your consultancy

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of working with a consultant to develop a three-year charity fundraising strategy:

  1. Be Clear About Your Needs and Expectations

Before you start working with a consultant, it’s important to be clear about your organization’s needs and expectations. Discuss what your goals are, what you want to achieve through fundraising, and what resources you have available. This will help the consultant to understand your needs and tailor their services to meet those needs.

  1. Choose the Right Consultant

Choosing the right consultant is crucial to the success of your fundraising strategy. Look for someone with experience in charity fundraising, and who has a track record of success. Research their credentials and references, and ask for samples of their previous work.

  1. Communicate Effectively

Good communication is key to a successful collaboration with a consultant. Establish regular touchpoints, such as weekly meetings or phone calls, to ensure that you are both on the same page. Share all relevant information and be transparent about any challenges or concerns you may have.

  1. Be Willing to Make Changes

A consultant can bring a fresh perspective to your fundraising efforts. Be open to their suggestions and be willing to make changes to your approach if needed. Remember, the consultant’s goal is to help you achieve your fundraising objectives, so be open to new ideas and be willing to take risks.

  1. Evaluate Progress and Adapt as Needed

Once your fundraising strategy is in place, it’s important to evaluate progress and make adjustments as needed. Regularly assess your progress against your goals and objectives, and make changes to your approach if necessary. This will help you to stay on track and ensure that your fundraising strategy remains relevant and effective.

In conclusion, working with a consultant to develop a three-year charity fundraising strategy can be a valuable investment for your organization. By choosing the right consultant, communicating effectively, being willing to make changes, and evaluating progress, you can create a successful fundraising strategy that will help you achieve your goals and make a positive impact on the world.

, , ,

Board member engagement in fundraising is essential

Engaging board members in fundraising and giving is critical to the success and sustainability of any non-profit organisation. These important individuals play a key role in securing the resources to drive the mission and goals of the organisation. Their commitment to giving and fundraising sets the tone for others in the community.

Ways to engage board members in fundraising and giving

There are a variety of ways we can engage board members in giving themselves and in soliciting funds on our behalf.

  1. Lead by Example
    • Encourage your board members to be philanthropic leaders in their own right
    • Encourage them to make a personal contribution to the organisation and challenge them to inspire others to do the same
    • Each Board member should give to their capacity
  2. Make it Personal
    • Help board members understand how their involvement in fundraising and giving can make a real difference to the organisation and the people it serves
    • Share stories and statistics about the impact of the organisation’s work and the difference that their contributions make
  3. Provide Opportunities for Giving
    • Offer a variety of ways for board members to give, such as individual gifts, gifts of stock, or planned giving
    • Make sure they understand the tax benefits of charitable giving
    • Their gifts are acknowledged and appreciated in the same manner as other generous donors
  4. Involve Them in Fundraising Activities
    • Provide opportunities for these key volunteers to actively participate in fundraising initiatives
    • This could include soliciting donations, making fundraising calls, or hosting events
  5. Recognise and Celebrate
    • Acknowledge and celebrate the generosity and commitment of your board members
    • Share their stories and the impact of their gifts with others
    • Make sure they feel valued and appreciated
  6. Provide Training and Support
    • Provide board members with the training and support they need to be successful in their fundraising and giving efforts
    • This might include coaching and training in fundraising techniques, information about the organization’s fundraising goals and strategies, and access to resources and tools

By engaging your charity board members in fundraising and giving, you can create a culture of philanthropy that will benefit your organisation for years to come. With their commitment and leadership, you can build a sustainable future for your organisation and the people it serves.

, , , , ,

BPAY and POSTPAY can easily be embedded in fundraising appeals

Bpay

As an Australian charity, it’s crucial to have multiple options for accepting donations from supporters. BPAY and POSTPAY are two popular payment methods used by many charities to raise funds. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can use BPAY and POSTPAY effectively in your fundraising appeals.

BPAY

BPAY is an electronic bill payment service that allows individuals to pay bills, including charitable donations, directly from their bank account. It’s a secure and convenient way to donate, and supporters can choose to make a one-off or recurring payment.

To use BPAY in your fundraising appeals, include the BPAY details on your donation page, such as the biller code and reference number. You can also include this information in your direct mail appeals and email campaigns. Encourage supporters to use BPAY by highlighting its ease of use and security.

POSTPAY

POSTPAY is a similar service to BPAY, but it allows supporters to pay their bills and make donations through Australia Post. This payment method is particularly useful for those who prefer to make payments in person, as they can visit a Post Office and make a donation using cash, credit card, or EFT.

To use POSTPAY in your fundraising appeals, include the POSTPAY details, such as the biller code and reference number, on your donation page and in your direct mail appeals and email campaigns. Encourage supporters to make a donation using POSTPAY by highlighting the convenience of being able to pay in person, using cash or credit card.

Both BPAY and POSTPAY are reliable payment methods that are widely used in Australia. Including these options in your fundraising appeals will provide supporters with the choice to donate in a way that’s most convenient for them. By making it easy for supporters to donate, you’ll be more likely to receive more donations and reach your fundraising goals.

In conclusion, using BPAY and POSTPAY in your fundraising appeals is a great way to provide supporters with convenient and secure payment options. By including these payment methods on your donation page, in direct mail appeals and email campaigns, you’ll increase the chances of receiving more donations and reach your fundraising goals.

«< 10 11 12 13 14 >»