The Role of the Board in Fundraising

I know, I know. Before you skip past this blog post, please know I've been in your shoes. I know what it's like to have the daunting task to motivate your board members to take an active role in fundraising. Most of the time, it comes down to a fear of asking for money, and comes with a variety of excuses such as, "I don't know any rich people," or "I don't know what to say," or "I don't know where to start."

Fundraising doesn't have to be hard. In fact, fundraising is built on relationships - which we all have - with family, friends, neighbors, employers, etc. After making their own personal gift, board members can start with their networks and the people they have relationships with, whether it be personal or professional.

I can help with trainings for your board to help them get over the fear of asking, understand how to approach their networks, and the impact their efforts can make on the overall fundraising results for the organization.

Here are a variety of ways your board can help with raising money for your organization:

1. Lead by Example: Personal Giving

• Set the Tone: Board members should be among the first to contribute to the organization’s fundraising campaigns. Their financial support demonstrates commitment and can inspire others to give.

• Achieve 100% Participation: Strive for 100% board participation in giving. This is a strong signal to potential donors and grantmakers that the board is fully invested in the organization’s mission.

  
  

2. Be an Active Participant

• Raise Awareness: Board members can be vocal advocates for the organization, raising awareness of its mission and programs in their communities and professional circles. The more people who know about the nonprofit, the more potential donors and supporters it can attract.

• Engage in Public Speaking: Some board members may be comfortable with public speaking. They can represent the organization at conferences, community events, or with the media, providing visibility and credibility that supports fundraising efforts.

• Act as Ambassadors: Board members should actively participate in major fundraising campaigns. This could involve making personal appeals to their networks, sharing campaign materials, and promoting the campaign on social media.
  

3. Leverage Networks

• Expand Reach: Board members often have access to networks that the staff might not. By reaching out to their personal and professional contacts, board members can open doors to new funding opportunities.

• Leverage Corporate Connections: Board members can use their business connections to secure corporate sponsorships, in-kind donations, or employee matching gifts. These partnerships can be crucial to fundraising success.

• Host Events: Board members can host or sponsor small events or gatherings to introduce the nonprofit to new audiences. These events can be informal, allowing potential donors to learn about the cause in a relaxed setting.

  
  

4. Engage in Donor Cultivation and Stewardship

• Build Relationships: Board members can play a key role in cultivating relationships with major donors. Their involvement can add a personal touch and show donors that the organization values their contributions at all levels.

• Acknowledge Donors: Sending thank-you notes, making phone calls, or participating in donor recognition events are simple yet powerful ways board members can help with stewardship, ensuring that donors feel appreciated and connected.
  

5. Create a Culture of Fundraising

• Champion Fundraising within the Organization: Board members should promote a culture where fundraising is seen as a shared responsibility across the organization, not just the job of the development team. This involves encouraging staff and volunteers to actively participate in fundraising initiatives.

• Lead by Example in Engagement: Whether through attending events, participating in campaigns, or advocating for the cause, board members can set the standard for how others in the organization should engage with fundraising efforts.

• Join Fundraising Committees: Some board members may have expertise in fundraising or marketing. Encouraging them to join or lead a fundraising committee can bring valuable skills and strategic insight to the campaign.
  

6. Contribute to Fundraising Strategy

• Provide Strategic Oversight: The board should actively participate in setting fundraising goals and developing strategies. Their input can ensure that the organization’s fundraising plan aligns with its overall mission and strategic objectives.

• Monitor Progress: Regularly review fundraising performance at board meetings. This keeps fundraising efforts on track and allows the board to make timely adjustments as needed.
  

7. Participate in Major Donor Solicitation

• Join Solicitation Meetings: For major donor asks, having a board member present can be influential. The board member doesn't have to make the actual "ask," but their presence brings a level of authority and commitment that can reassure potential donors of the organization’s stability and leadership.

  • Note: Board members involved in solicitations should be well-prepared, understanding the nonprofit’s needs, the donor’s interests, and the specific ask. They should work closely with staff to ensure a coordinated and compelling approach.
    

8. Provide Resources for Fundraising

• Invest in Fundraising Capacity: Boards should advocate for and approve budgets that include adequate resources for fundraising activities, such as technology, staffing, and training. Investing in these areas can greatly enhance the organization’s fundraising effectiveness.

• Support Fundraising Training: Encourage and fund training opportunities for both board members and staff to improve their fundraising skills. This could include workshops on donor relations, major gifts, or grant writing.

  
  

Conclusion

A nonprofit board's involvement in fundraising is crucial to the organization’s financial health and long-term sustainability. By leading by example, leveraging networks, participating in campaigns, and supporting strategic efforts, board members can significantly enhance the organization’s ability to raise funds and fulfill its mission. When board members fully embrace their role in fundraising, they help build a stronger, more resilient nonprofit organization.

Let's work together to develop your board's skills and efforts in raising funds for your work!