Make the Most of the Summer Season
Summer is my favorite time of year, but in the world of nonprofit fundraising, it can also be tough. With donors distracted by vacations, family time, and outdoor fun, traditional fundraising often hits a temporary wall. But a slowdown in donor availability doesn't mean your mission has to lose momentum. Think of early summer as your strategic runway to strengthen your foundation, refresh your strategies, and prepare for the busy months ahead. Here are a few ideas to capitalize on opportunities during July and August.
Focus on gratitude. In the entire fund development process, donor appreciation is where you should invest most of your time. Take lead volunteers or longtime supporters out for a casual coffee just to share organizational updates and say "thank you,” send appreciation cards or send donor update emails. When you strip away the pressure of an immediate financial ask, you build the kind of deep, authentic relationships that sustainable fundraising relies on.
Jump-start end-of-year (EOY) planning. More than 30% of annual giving happens in December alone, however, the planning for a campaign starts long before the winter frost sets in. Uninterrupted summer weeks can be utilized to map out communication messaging, refine major gift strategy, and plan digital storytelling/videos to strengthen a campaign. Getting your timeline and appeal drafts organized now prevents that chaotic, stressful scramble when October hits. Summer may also be a great time to clean up your database and segment your donor list in preparation for the giving season.
Corporate giving and donor research. Use the slower summer months to review your organizational goals, build a fresh prospect list, and dive deep into your research. By mapping out corporate alignments now, you will be perfectly positioned to launch highly targeted, compelling asks in the late summer and early fall when corporate planning cycles refresh.
Take time for yourself! Fall will be here before we know it, so remember to take advantage of these lovely, long days to step away if you’re able. Nonprofit work is hard, so if things are slowing down at the office, make some time to rest and recharge. You’ll find me buzzing around on my bike and hiking with the kiddo and doggo. Happy summer, all!
Sources: Charity Engine
