The Web is fast-paced and dynamic. Blogs, YouTube, social media, RSS feeds and online communities are changing the way nonprofit organizations engage their constituencies. But it takes time and resources to maintain an organization’s Web site — let alone implement Web 2.0 strategies. And the progression of Web-based tools for constituency engagement leaves some professionals scratching their heads.
Spring — which, believe it or not, really is coming soon — is an exciting time. People emerge from hibernation, outdoor activities are on the rise, and nonprofits tap into the renewed energy of their staff, donors, and volunteers. And for those organizations that rely on special events for funding, it’s either the final countdown or full-blown planning for fall. Online components to special events are becoming the norm. From managing an auction online and encouraging personal fundraising pages, to joining the virtual community of Second Life and posting video highlights from your cow patty bingo fundraiser on your organization’s Web site (or
Staff turnover remains a hot-button topic in nonprofit circles. Stretched resources coupled with seemingly constantly growing workloads can be a potent recipe for stress, burn-out and departures. As a nonprofit leader, you have a lot of power to make your staff feel more appreciated and confident, and less stressed. What is your best tactic? Remember that the people drawn to nonprofit work are motivated by more than a paycheck. (This probably is true for you too, right?) It is likely your team knows they could command higher pay elsewhere, but they are intrinsically motivated by your organization’s mission or cause. Find new ways to trip these
Identity-theft criminals are targeting not only large for-profit businesses, but also unsuspecting smaller businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Attracting new donors is harder than keeping the ones you’ve got. But keeping the donors you have is easier said than done. The session “Be Your Donors’ Favorite Charity: 10 Tips to Keep Them Giving Again and Again” presented by Heather Burton, product marketing manager at Sage Software, on Monday at the AFP 44th International Conference on Fundraising in Dallas, offered attendees these actionable tips to keep donors engaged and giving: 1. Be accountable. Accountability builds trust with donors. Be forthcoming in financial audits and make sure that you use the money you raise for the purposes you outline in your solicitations, and communicate
What has been your organization’s major challenge when it comes to soliciting major gifts? — FS Advisor, March 14
