Phillips & Associates

“Just a Thought...for our friends engaged in philanthropy by profession or as volunteers.”

Gary Phillips, Chairman

Key Elements of A Successful
Fundraising Program

Over the years I have developed a useful and systematic approach to both developing and examining a comprehensive fundraising program. The following key elements of a successful program fall within three basis areas: The Appeal, The People and The Support.

THE APPEAL

Financial Planning - Detailing the organization’s current, near-term and long-term funding requirements focusing on:

  • annual operating costs
  • special projects and programs
  • major physical plan expansion and renovation

Charitable Funding Opportunities – Identifying from results of financial planning the organization’s priority funding needs which will most likely attract private contribution and grant support.

Case Statement - Describing the organization’s distinctive merit for seeking gifts and grants, and articulating the most compelling reasons why someone should consider contributing to meet the represented funding needs.

Donor/Volunteer Recognition - Developing the most appropriate methods to acknowledge and recognize donors and volunteers whose gifts and involvement helped meet the represented funding needs.

THE PEOPLE

Volunteer Leadership – Defining and assigning specific roles and responsibilities for volunteer fundraising leadership, with particular emphasis on the role of the governing board.

Potential Donors - Identifying individuals, foundations, businesses, and charitable associations as potential donors; evaluating their contribution potential; and, assessing the best approach to cultivate and solicit their support.

Professional Staff – Employing a sufficient level of professional staff talent, time and expertise to plan and manage the fundraising program to successful conclusion.

 

THE SUPPORT

Fundraising Materials - Determining the number and nature of printed materials and presentations required to support the fundraising program, e.g. special audio/visual presentations, fundraising brochures, contribution pledge forms, volunteer guides.

Financial Budget and Resources - Providing the necessary allocation of financial budget, office space and equipment to effectively support a successful fundraising program.

Administrative Systems and Procedures - Establishing efficient procedures for the receipt, deposit, acknowledgement, recording and reporting of all contributions and pledges.

 

Does your organization have these key fundraising elements in place?

 

Phone: (310) 247–0963
Fax: (310) 247–0966
contact@PhillipsOnTheWeb.com
www.PhillipsOnTheWeb.com

This article has been authored by Gary Phillips and must not be reproduced, in whole or in part, or otherwise distributed without prior written approval to do so. 05/11

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Our fundraising management consulting firm, founded in 1971, is dedicated to the development of leadership and financial resources for our clients in the not–for–profit sector.