6 Baby Steps to Transition to a Full Direct-Response Fundraising Program

I was talking a few days ago to a seasoned fundraiser who is having difficulty moving a nonprofit from “the way we’ve always done it” in terms of fundraising to a more stable base that includes a core direct-response program. The goal is to build a program that targets people who will consistently donate $35, $100, $250 or more through monthly pledges, e-appeals and direct mail — and in general, provide the not-as-sexy funding that bridges the time between one grant, major gift or bequest to the next.