COVID-19

COVD-19 has dramatically changed the world in a matter of weeks. As fundraisers, we are by nature positive and resilient. Our priorities may have escalated or what was urgent last week may seem out of touch today. Here are the critical actions to implement during this period of social distancing. Commit to using this time to bring your donors closer even though you are apart. Be relevant, share your mission in ways that combat isolation and spread hope.

Communicate

Philanthropic

Block & Tackle

Strategize

Keep your donors close with a strong communication plan and personal calls to your top donors. Express calm concern and gratitude.

Now is an opportune time to be strategic and solution- oriented about the current climate and future. Hone best practice and expand operational capacity. Take stock, prioritize and execute.

innovate

Offer conference calls,

video conferencing,

eLearning and

innovative event alternatives. Adopt volunteer efforts to a remote platform.

Educate

Invest in professional development remotely. Sharpen your team's toolbox so that you emerge at a higher level of performance.

Engage

In a crisis, most people want to help. Set up a special fund or specific funding opportunities to impact the crisis.

Steward

Be thoughtful. Invest in relationships with donors. Surprise donors with hand-written notes and creative value-added updates.

The

Facts

Nonprofits do not retreat; they lean in.

Fundraisers and nonprofit leaders stay calm, get creative and carry on.

Philanthropists rise to challenge and will again.

Lessons Learned

Personal outreach to principal and major gift donors first. High level prospects in conversation, donor constituency, and community next.
Communicate with sensitivity. Convey genuine personal concern, explain steps nonprofit has taken and be honest about the situation.
Nonprofits that do best, during and after a crisis, don't stop asking after the first check in call. Don't overly apologize or anticipate, "no".
Capture new donors who want to help. Apply to foundations who have relaxed parameters and expanded grant opportunities. Explore federal and state opportunities
Nonprofits that communicate, invest time in relationships, leverage technology and innovate will discover opportunities, remain optimistic and true to their mission.