Thursday, July 31, 2008

INTEGRATED FUNDRAISING OPERATION

KEY THOUGHT #2

Do not create a plan for your planned-giving program without considering the big picture and the opportunities presented. Planned-giving cultivation begins in your annual-fund program because most planned giving prospects are likely to be loyal , small (cash) donors to your organization. With this in mind, your annual fund and planned giving activities should be discussed and coordinated. Some of the questions that need to be asked include:

1) How many contacts from the organization will typical donors receive within one year?

2) Of these contacts how many will specifically ask donors to make another gift? Keep in mind that research has shown that asking frequently, particularly more than six times annually, may decrease the likelihood of your organizations receiving planned gifts.

3) Do you provide a check-off box on the annual fund reply card asking donors to identify their interest in or prior commitments to making a planned gift to your organization?

4) Finally, do your donor recognition programs include identification of loyal donors, regardless of gift amount history? Remember, these are often your best planned-giving prospects!


Stay tuned for Key Element #3

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