9 Fundraising Myths Shattered

Fundraising Myth No. 2: Advocates and Donors Are Two Groups That Don’t Overlap

Some people will divide advocates and donors into two separate groups that rarely overlap.

And while it is true that some of your donors will never sign a petition and some of your advocates will only ever donate their time, the two groups are not always mutually exclusive!

The idea that the two demographics don’t overlap simplifies the rich complexity of the supporter/nonprofit relationship.

Let me explain.

Each supporter—whether it’s a donor, volunteer or advocate—has a unique connection to your organization. To assume that a donor wouldn’t want to help your nonprofit on a volunteer day or that an advocate wouldn’t want to donate to your cause is only limiting your nonprofit’s vision.

You likely already know that the lifetime value of a volunteer or advocate is incredible (especially with the right engagement!), but that value increases the minute a volunteer makes a donation to your organization!

Similarly, when donors give their time to your nonprofit, they get to see the immediate effects of their efforts.

Everyone wins!

The Truth: Your biggest advocates can become donors, and your donors can become your most loyal advocates. Don’t think of the two as separate groups!

Bonus tip: Check out this article for ideas for turning advocates into donors and vice versa!