These are challenging times. We’re in the middle of a crisis, and it’s taking a real toll on nonprofits across the globe.
With social-distancing measures in place all over the world, in-person fundraiser events are no longer possible right now.
So, nonprofits need to adapt to this new situation and come up with creative solutions to continue to raise funds online.
In this article, we’re going to go over four things nonprofits can do from home to navigate this crisis best and continue to gain support while raising money.
1. Take Time to Check in with Your Donors
With the state of the world right now, your instinct may be to avoid your donors. You should do the opposite.
Your donors are probably feeling anxious, stressed, and worried. So, this is a time to show just how much you care about them. Check-in, reach out, and ask how you can help.
Make a list of your top donors and schedule online meetings with them.
The important thing is to let them know you are there for them. Also, give them an update on how your organization is doing.
This will help consolidate your relationships with your donors, which, in turn, will increase donor engagement and retention.
Keep building those relationships, even in times of crisis, and you are much more likely to secure ongoing support for your organization.
2. Focus on Email Marketing
Focusing on email marketing is one of the best things nonprofits can do from home to increase giving.
If you have an engaged list you have built over time; this will be an invaluable asset during these difficult times.
Keep sending email updates and show your audience all the different ways in which they can continue to support your organization.
Foster unity and embed your message in a larger expression of mutual support, empathy, and solidarity.
Some of your supporters may retreat, yes. Be prepared for that.
But others will recognize that this is a time of extreme need. Those people will step up to support your organization and do whatever they can to assist your efforts right now.
3. Strengthen Your Social Media Presence
With most people locked in their homes, social media usage has soared. However, social media is oversaturated with news and information about the virus.
Major crises such as this tend to consume people’s attention, which can place your nonprofit out of the spotlight.
Out of sight often means out of mind, so it’s essential to continue to spread your message, make your voice heard, and remain visible in your donors’ social media feeds.
It’s one of the best things nonprofits can do from home.
4. Host a Online Fundraiser the Key to Raising Money
Most people are at home right now. They probably have more time than usual and are very active online.
So why not plan a virtual program with your supporters? Please encourage them to invite their friends and family so that you get your message out to as many people as possible.
One charity in Seattle recently hosted its first online fundraising gala and managed to surpass its initial fundraising goal (which was raising $200,000).
This shows that it’s possible to connect with your audience via virtual events and get them to support your cause.
You could book a virtual event host to ensure everything runs smoothly (highly recommended if you have little or no experience hosting an online fundraising event).
If you are interested in hiring an emcee to engage your virtual attendees and add value to your event, give us a call at (615) 283-0039.
We will be happy to help out!
Which of These Things Nonprofits Can Do from Home Will You Try?
These are unsettling times. Some things are out of your control. But some things are not.
What will happen with your nonprofit in times of crisis also depends on your outreach and leadership. Nonprofits that manage to adapt and take timely action will be more likely to weather this storm and survive.
We hope this article has opened your eyes to new opportunities which have inspired you to continue your virtual fundraising efforts.
