There’s no way to get around it. The world is facing a crisis, and it’s affecting everyone.
Countries have been forced to close their borders, countless workers have lost their jobs, and we’ve been forced to accept a new normal. Words like “social-distancing” and “quarantine” have become part of our everyday vocabulary.
Several businesses have taken financial hits, and non-profit organizations have been hit just as hard. Many of these organizations count on in-person events and interactions to raise money for their causes.
With all of these canceled until further notice, it can be difficult to figure out your next step – or if raising money is even moral during this time. But rest assured, if your non-profit was forced to cancel key events this fundraising season, don’t despair; all is not lost.
There are some tactful ways to raise money for your non-profit during a crisis. Let’s see what some of those are, shall we?
First Things First, Stay Calm
The first thing you need to do is keep a level mind and heart. Going into panic mode won’t help your organization or your mental state. This is not the time to throw your hands up and quit. Before you get started, make a logical plan of action.
Find out who you will contact, how you will contact them, and what you plan to say. If you had to cancel certain events, brainstorm new ones with your team. That way, you appear as a united front with a solid plan of action moving forward.
Communicate With Your Donors
The next thing you need to do is communicate with your donors. These wonderful people have supported your cause once before, and you need them now more than ever.
Reach out to them and assure them that you’ve appreciated their support all this time. Explain to them that their support is crucial at a time like this to continue your cause.
If there was going to be a big event that must now be canceled or rescheduled, don’t wait until the last minute. Send out a message about the cancellation, or the new date as soon as you have it, and keep them informed.
They’ll appreciate your effort, and you’ll be able to keep their support through this ordeal.
Make Good Use of Your Platforms — Hold a Virtual Event
Think about the platforms your organization currently uses. If you need to cancel a physical, in-person event, why not take to social media to hold a virtual one? People are still looking to interact and keep some semblance of normalcy in their lives.
Hold a virtual gala and encourage participants to get dressed up and enjoy a dinner with you as you discuss your organization. If you have an in-person facility, now is the perfect time to give a tour without all the craziness of the office.
While you may have to get creative or delve into unorthodox roots, your efforts will pay off.
It’s a stressful time for all of us. Using tactful ways to keep your non-profit afloat during this time may be just what you need to weather the storm.
If you are looking for donation incentives, we have a wonderful resource on them here.
