Why Your Board Isn’t Fundraising (And How to Fix It)
Engaging a leadership team made up solely of volunteers is one of the most ambitious, delicate and daunting responsibilities a CEO or Executive Director will have.
The #1 reason board members aren’t fundraising isn’t their fault, it’s ours
We bear some responsibility for why our board members aren’t fundraising. I believe the number one reason why most board members fail is they came on board under false pretenses.
Busting Myths and Objections Board Members Have About Fundraising
1. “I don’t know anyone who has money.”
2. “I don’t want to ask my friends.”
3. They think fundraising is just about asking, not building long-term relationships.
4. They project their own fears and preferences onto a prospect.
5. They feel like asking is taking something away from the person.
6. They think it’s going to feel bad, like begging.
7. They think asking one rich celebrity is all it takes.
Remember that Fundraising is Staff Led
Your board members are not going to wake up tomorrow and start soliciting donors. In addition to setting the right expectations during the recruitment process, you must mobilize them, train them, coach them and provide support.
