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Dec52017

Last-Minute Strategies to Boost Year-End Fundraising

Do you have that year-end feeling? You know, the one many fundraisers get around this time of year?

Kind of frenetic? Anxious? Stressed?

You’re not alone.

The average nonprofit receives 30% of all donations in December. And 12% arrive in the last three days of the year! So, yeah, it’s really busy. And a lot is on the line.

I was talking with one of my clients, who apologized for acting so frantic and rushed. She said:

“Do you remember having that feeling? Did you get it when you used to work in the trenches? That worry that maybe you won’t hit your numbers? That people won’t give as much as they gave last year? That some of your major donors won’t renew. That maybe you’re not sending enough emails? That you’ll wake up on January 1^st and be in BIG trouble?”

Oh, yeah. That feeling…

Of course I’ve felt it! But over the years I’ve learned a few tricks to help overcome that feeling.

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December 5, 2017 1 CommentAnnual GivingBy Claire Axelrad

Nov272017

Fundraising Appeal Psychology: Show People How to Avoid Loss

I’m about to clairify a subtle but very important point about what motivates philanthropic giving. After all, that’s what “Clairification” is all about.

It’s often said that people give to people. So true.

But people are funny.

People will often give more to people who show them the pain that can be avoided through their gift, rather than to the people who show them the good that can be gained.

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November 27, 2017 Leave a commentengagement, fundraising, major gifts, Neuromarketing, Philanthropy, Psychology of givingBy Claire Axelrad

Nov212017

Thanks(for)giving

This Thursday folks in the United States will celebrate what I consider to be the social benefit sector holiday of the year: Thanksgiving!

Just think about what it means. Literally, it’s a day for giving thanks for our blessings.

Who do you count among yours?

I know when we go around the table at my family Thanksgiving, saying what we’re grateful for this year, most folks respond with a people-based answer. Sure, they’re happy about the feast in front of them. But they’re most grateful for caring friends. For loving family. For being together and sharing the warmth of good company.