Donor retention continues to be a hot topic. It was a frequent topic of lively discussion at the recent Association of Fundraising Professionals International Conference on Fundraising. The fact is, many organizations have donors lapsing as fast as or faster than they are retaining them.
When working on an annual-giving or comprehensive development plan, we always measure donor retention, by giving categories and the type of appeal (personal, direct response, etc.). Of great importance to every organization is having a plan to first shore up retention and then to improve it. There are a lot of statistics floating around for various surveys on donor retention. Be most concerned about your situation.
Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.