Thursday, April 9, 2015

Basic Information On Donor Cultivation Strategies

By Joanna Walsh


Non profit organizations are faced with the challenge of getting donors for sponsorship of their programs and projects for the cause they are supporting. With this, it is very important to nurture a relationship with donors so that fundraising will be successful. Somehow, this will rely on strategies, effective communication, consistency, and reputation.

Before proceeding, we define cultivation as a building of relationship for stewardship. This means that it includes donor cultivation strategies in order to proceed with the programs and projects. A non profit organization is not capable of generating its own funds. Hence, it needs the help of profit organizations like commercial companies.

Some of the most famous institutions that concentrate on funding different causes are World Vision and Unicef. They support people, especially women and children, who are victims of abuse, war, famine, slavery, poverty, calamities, and a lot more. They further support human rights and uphold the importance of education and health for children.

Communication strategies are often the make or break in the cultivation process. They have to make sure that awareness, emotions, information, and the need to act are all incorporated in the strategy. Once the appointment has been made with a prospect, the development or social workers have to set the stage for an overwhelming presentation. Oftentimes, prospects are encouraged to participate if they are interested and if they know what part they will be playing and what benefits they can get also.

As part of corporate responsibilities of companies, especially the multinational ones, they need to indulge in charitable programs. This will be their way of supporting the society they are thriving in. This will be a good opportunity for not for profit institutions to help them realize their responsibilities as a corporation.

As part of the cultivation strategies, promotion is done in an active, purposive, and enticing manner. For example, the institution will make video clips or even documentaries of the areas of concern. It helps if they are able to tell the story effectively and touch the hearts of the prospects. Appealing to the emotions is one of the fortes of social and development workers.

When their emotions are stirred, they will become aware of how important and helpful it will be if they become part of the cause. Hence, they will then be propelled to pledge their help. Then the mission and goals of the organization should also be discussed and promoted in such a way that the donor will understand his or her roles in partaking in the cause.

Being consistent and true to the cause will also encourage them to help. For example, if past projects are discussed or reported on international media, the more it will propel the prospects to pledge donorship. They want to make sure that the support they will give will really go a long way and will reach the hands of those in need.

Using the media, anything can be possible. Videos, articles, and awareness programs can be done through the internet to call for attention. This way, the public will be aware of what is going on. For most of the time, awareness and understanding of the situation will encourage help and action.




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