September 3, 2014
Opinions are divided in the nonprofit world over how to best use an organization's board for fundraising efforts. There have been a variety of opinions offered on the issue, from having board members actively participate in such efforts, to reserving their interaction for longtime, high-level and otherwise desirable donors. For many nonprofit groups, finding the right fit for involving the board directly in gathering contributions will be an individual process that balances the cachet of these leaders in the community with the practical problems that occur when people untrained in fundraising are thrust into such a role.
One area where board members can be more effective is in the general area of raising awareness. Fundraisers must have certain background experience to effectively raise money. Just because a board member cares about a nonprofit organization doesn't mean they have the knowledge, personality or thought process that's most conducive to getting donations. What all board members do have – at least in theory – is passion for the cause being supported by an organization and knowledge of its projects and programs. For this reason, it's easier to use board members in an awareness raising role where their involvement in the operations of a nonprofit shine through.
Getting the most out of board member efforts
Nonprofit marketing blog Getting Attention suggests enhancing the ability of board members to raise awareness by doing some simple training. One such exercise is to sit down with the board members during or after a meeting and have them tell, and write down, the story of why they serve on the board. Members will already know their personal stories, but articulating them can make a big difference when it comes to raising awareness and speaking with others for the first time.
The Nonprofit Resource Network highlighted one particular area where board members can be especially effective: communicating with important and highly regarded members of the local community. Board members will often travel in the same circles as local and area business leaders, and can focus their awareness raising efforts on the people who themselves hold a high level of influence. This is an area where the leaders of a nonprofit can provide a great benefit to their organizations.
Content presented by First Nonprofit Group, the leading provider of state unemployment insurance solutions for 501(c)(3) nonprofit employers.
Ready to chat? Get in touch today to request a no-obligation savings evaluation.
First Nonprofit has saved us so much money over the state’s program. We had one little glitch with the state recently and we contacted FNP immediately. FNP staff called us back immediately and moved to remedy the problem.
First Nonprofit has been a great partner. They have helped us saved hundreds of thousands of dollars! They have awesome resources for our nonprofit organization. Thanks for the partnership.
Life is certainly busy these days but having business partners like First Nonprofit has made some of the process hassle free. We have worked with this team for years. When we changed payroll systems, they outlined every step. I think this team is terrific and I know they get the job done! Thank you, Cruz, to all the team at FNP.
FNP has helped our agency to save thousands of dollars every year on our unemployment coverage. The service is phenomenal, and we are thankful to their team as our partner. My experience working with Marshall on the advocacy around UE for nonprofits was also a highlight as someone who teaches advocacy and lobbying for nonprofits. Really, your whole team is top shelf, so thank YOU!
Chicago Children’s Theatre has greatly benefited from our partnership with First Nonprofit, and I have always enjoyed working with the staff on our filings and any complicated questions. I would not hesitate to recommend First Nonprofit to fellow nonprofits. We’re very happy customers.
FNP is a great resource for Daniel Kids. To have a TPA that we can count on to take point on not only managing our unemployment claims, but to support and guide any protest hearing, is invaluable. All the professional support staff we have worked with have been excellent, very knowledgeable and responsive. We are grateful for the help and support, thank you.
When I first began in my position at my organization, I hadn’t had experience working with a company like FNP. The staff was so patient and helpful in helping to explain the benefits of First Nonprofit. Anytime I reach out with a question I receive a quick, clear, and thorough response. I’m so thankful that we decided to partner with FNP. Their excellence in customer service, coupled with their variety of packages frees us up to truly serve our staff and community with a peace of mind knowing that our organization is protected against unanticipated unemployment insurance expenses.
First Nonprofit gets an A+ in my book. You are so easy to work with & very knowledgeable! Whether it is my quarterly correspondence with Kim or my random interactions with Dawn about a bond … I am so pleased that I get to work with such a helpful company. Thank you!