Empowering Nonprofit Board Members: Development and Fundraising Training
Nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in addressing social, environmental, and cultural issues. They often rely on the support and dedication of board members to guide their efforts and ensure their success. One of the key responsibilities of nonprofit board members is to participate in development and fundraising activities. At K. Slattery Consulting we understand the importance of training nonprofit board members on development and fundraising, and offer five actionable tips to enhance their skills in these areas.
The Importance of Development and Fundraising for Nonprofits
According to the National Philanthropic Trust, individual contributions made up 69% of charitable giving in the United States in 2020. With the right training, nonprofit board members can help tap into this massive pool of potential funding. Effective development and fundraising strategies are essential for nonprofits to sustain their operations, expand their programs, and ultimately achieve their mission.
In 2020, charitable giving in the United States amounted to $471.44 billion, a 5.1% increase from the previous year (National Philanthropic Trust). Online giving saw a significant increase, with a growth rate of 21% between 2019 and 2020 (Nonprofit Source). 60% of millennials prefer to donate via mobile, highlighting the importance of digital fundraising strategies (Nonprofit Source).
5 Tips for Training Nonprofit Board Members on Development and Fundraising
Emphasize the board's role in fundraising: Make sure board members understand that their participation in development and fundraising is essential to the organization's success. Share examples of other nonprofits where board members have actively contributed to fundraising efforts and demonstrate how their involvement has led to positive outcomes.
Offer tailored training: Each board member may have different levels of experience and expertise in fundraising. Provide tailored training to meet their individual needs, whether it's through workshops, webinars, or one-on-one coaching sessions. This ensures that all board members receive the support and education they need to excel in their roles.
Encourage relationship-building: Successful development and fundraising often rely on strong relationships with donors and supporters. Teach board members how to network and foster connections that can lead to increased support for the organization. This may include attending events, reaching out to potential donors, and leveraging personal networks to attract new supporters.
Share best practices and tools: Provide board members with access to resources, tools, and best practices for effective development and fundraising. This may include guides on grant writing, tips for planning fundraising events, and advice on using social media and digital platforms to engage with donors.
Foster a culture of philanthropy: Encourage board members to stay informed about the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in nonprofit development and fundraising. This can be achieved by sharing articles, hosting guest speakers, or attending conferences and workshops. By staying up-to-date, board members can better adapt their strategies to changing circumstances and ensure the organization's long-term success.
Training nonprofit board members in development and fundraising is a vital investment in the success of your organization. By providing tailored training, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building, sharing best practices, and fostering a culture of philanthropy, you can equip your board members with the skills and knowledge they need to secure the funding and support necessary to achieve your mission.
Let us help you! Reach out today to learn more about K. Slattery Consulting’s board training program, tailored to your organization’s specific needs and budget.