Effective Fundraising for Education Foundations NJEFP Annual Conference THE POWER OF EDUCATION FOUNDATIONS: Facing the Future of Public Education in NJ April 25, 2009 www.ruthellenrubin.com
Success in fundraising comes when you Set a clear $$ goal. Articulate the cause/need. Commit resources and time to fundraising activities and initiatives. Ask for money. Ask effectively and ask often! www.ruthellenrubin.com 2
Fundraising Basics Find the right matches those who are passionate about your work/mission Cultivate Relationships It s a technological age; use technology but remember that fundraising is still a human process Commit time to plan and resources to fund your development program Success in fundraising comes from the right people asking people they know to give to a cause with which they can identify. Find a core group of people, convince them to support you, then motivate them to get others to support you. www.ruthellenrubin.com 3
Steps to fundraising success Recruit (and train) board members who understand fundraising and are passionate about your mission Make sure your foundation is effective, transparent and financially healthy Communicate with your constituents and prospects to understand external realities Market your foundation s programs by explaining the impact it will have for your children in your community Document and brand your success and outcomes Commit to a 12 month calendar www.ruthellenrubin.com 4
The Case for Support The reason your education foundation merits financial support. People will give to your foundation because you meet needs, not because you have needs. We exist to fill a need that would not otherwise be met. www.ruthellenrubin.com 5
Don t ever say We would like to have your support because we need money. Without your donation we will have to close our doors. We operate on a shoestring budget. It s difficult to get support for our project so we need you to help us. www.ruthellenrubin.com 6
The Real Value of Events Showcase your impact Collect every name, address and email Thank formally and immediately Communicate with donor six months later to show impact of their support Use (but don t overuse) electronic communications Invest in a Donor Database www.ruthellenrubin.com 7
Communication, Communication, Communication Communicate your fundraising initiative internally get the buy in of your staff and board. Communicate the case for support to your volunteers and constituents. Integrate fundraising into your website and all publications. Your chief fundraiser (professional or volunteer) must be able to inspire and motivate others through his/her enthusiasm, commitment and passion. www.ruthellenrubin.com 8
Stewardship Fundraising is a long range effort. It takes years to build meaningful relationships between organizations and their reliable supporters and funders. Pay attention to details, make sure your records are impeccable and steward your donors year-round. Make your organization their favorite charity. www.ruthellenrubin.com 9
Recommended Resources Developing Your Case for Support, by Timothy Seiler Fundraising Realities Every Board Member Must Face, by David Lansdowne The Ultimate Board Member s Book, by Kay SPrinkel Grace Asking: A 59 Minute Guide to Everything Board Members, Volunteers, and Staff Must Know to Secure the Gift, by Jerold Panas Digital Giving: How Technology is Changing Charity, by Richard C. McPherson www.ruthellenrubin.com Download Technology for Fundraising teleseminar www.ruthellenrubin.com/blog www.ruthellenrubin.com 10