FUNDRAISING MYTHS

1.                  Fundraising is begging and indicates an organization is needy

Donors want to invest in successful organizations with solid business plans.

2.                  Donors respond to the needs of the organization
Donors respond to organizations that understand the needs of donors.

3.                  Fundraising is about money
Fundraising is about building relationships.

4.                  We have to know the top donors in this area to raise big money
The largest gifts come from donors who know and have a strong relationship with the organization – but who may not be the best known donors in the community.

5.                  If you do good program work, the money will just appear
Successful fundraising demands strong donor cultivation as well as excellent programs to attract their gifts.

6.                  Major gifts can be obtained by writing letters
Letters are easily discarded; donors find it more difficult to turn down an in-person solicitation from another donor.

7.                  A goal can be reached by dividing it into equal parts and seeking equal gifts
Donors have differing capabilities, differing degrees of involvement in the organization and differing personal needs – so they respond to asks for different size gifts.

8.                  Some people can’t afford to give, so should not be asked
Let potential donors make their own decisions.  Every organization has stories of the donor that surprised them with a major gift that no one knew they had the capacity to make.

9.                  Special events are an effective, efficient way to raise money
Stage events to raise visibility and involve new people.  But be aware of the risks and the huge demands events pose for staff and volunteers.

10.             Asking once a year is enough
Unless the answer was an emphatic “no”, ask again.  Offer donors another chance to invest with your organization. 

      © janie anderson 2001