There is far too much focus on funds in fundraising.
I spent some time considering how we ever got to a place where nurturing relationships with donors became a novel idea. That’s when I realized it was because the fundraising folks became disconnected from their organizations’ work first.
Many fundraisers I’ve talked to or observed seem to have little-to-no passion for the causes they are working to fund. It’s not their fault and it’s not because they don’t care. They do care–very much so. It’s what has become the nature of their work as a result of how we’re running nonprofit organizations.
Have you looked at job postings for nonprofit work lately? If you have, you’ve seen the long list of demanding and far-reaching responsibilities being requested of employees paired with a salary that does not represent the level of effort, skill, and experience required to successfully perform.
High turnover rates have become commonplace. This suggests employees are not feeling appreciated for their work, experiencing burnout, or don’t feel fulfilled in their position.
People who choose a career in the nonprofit sector do not do so because they are seeking lucrative careers. There is far more money to be made doing similar work in the for-profit sector. People who choose this work have a heart for it. They have a desire and a commitment to be part of progress, of healing, of helping. These are people who want to do good in this world.
But, are nonprofit organizations letting them be a part of the mission? Or, are they left feeling used up in a chase for cold cash?
Perhaps the first step in developing systems and communications that radically connect donors to the work of the organization is to develop systems within the organization that allow all of the employees to experience the reward of being an active part of the heart of the organization’s work.
#fundraising #donorengagement #thoughtleadership #mindset #employeeengagement #nonprofitorganization #nonprofitleadership
Senior Recruiter | HR Professional Hiring ⭐️ Process Design Engineers ⭐️ Finite Scheduler’s …..and more
1moI'm definitely interested do you have any permanent positions that offer relocation packages to the DC area?