Successful not-for-profit organisations have a team approach to fundraising and donor engagement starting with the board and continuing through the executive, staff and volunteers.

Board engagement in fundraising is important for successful growth. Not only does Board support for organisational initiatives mean that they are more likely to be successful, it also means that the organisations can spread the workload, reach more deeply into the community and have a greater impact on the people that you meet.  Specifically, here are some of the ways Board members can get more involved:

• Thanking donors in person, by letter, email and by phone.  This is probably one of the easiest and most fun ways Board members can get more involved with the fundraising process. Not only does this mean that your organization can reach more people with its stewardship efforts, donors love hearing from those in leadership positions.

• Acting as the organization’s representatives at your and other people’s functions and events, and being true champions of your work. This includes knowing and understanding your Case for Support and being prepared to talk about it with people that they meet.

• Following up with donors and prospects that they know or have met. This isn’t so much about asking for money. It’s much more about them building on an already existing rapport so that the relationship can move forward.

• Opening doors to people who they think might be interested in knowing more about the organization.  Again, this isn’t always about asking for money, but exploring with their contacts if they might like some further engagement with the organization, from attending a meeting to coming to an event.