Sustained successful fundraising requires consistent attention, action, funding and leadership. It is proactive and volunteer-driven. The success of an organization’s fundraising activities will first depend upon the involvement of board members, and their ability and willingness to cultivate and solicit major donors. Other prerequisites include:
- Full commitment from Executive Director, Board of Directors and staff.
- Completion of an Assessment and Feasibility Study.
- A time-phased fundraising plan.
- A coordinated strategic solicitation plan.
- A compelling case for financial support that ties back to the strategic plan.
- Top caliber leadership. Leadership is critical to the success of any fundraising effort. Fundraising must be volunteer-driven with strong, experienced leadership.
- Active participation by the Fund Development Committee. If one is not already in place, creation of such committee.
- A strong public relations effort to complement and support the fundraising campaign.
- An attractive commemorative gift recognition program.
- A team of properly trained and informed volunteers.
- Professional staff responsible for campaign management, volunteer management and administrative support.
- Defined roles and responsibilities for staff, consultants, board members and volunteers.
- Use of a donor database system that facilitates fundraising management and decision making.
- Allocation of funds and resources required for implementation of the fundraising plan.
- Open lines of communication amongst all parties combined with a sense of urgency.
Successful fundraising activities are coordinated, consistent, donor-focused, and volunteer-driven.
