10 daily actions for nonprofit fundraisers

This list is over a decade old, created during my first time leading a nonprofit fundraising team. The actions listed will still add value to your fundraising efforts, and to your life in general.

1. Have Pandora or my IPOD on. Music inspires me and gets me ready to rock-n-roll. Especially before an important call.

2. Maintain a sense of gratitude. The truth is that I have so much. My life is amazing.

3. Thank your co-workers/team. Together you can rock it

4. Let your friends and contacts on social media know what you’re doing.

5. Connect with a donor. This should happen every day. No matter your position, no matter how “busy” you are, no matter that the grant application is due at 5pm. Do it. Make the call.

6. Connect with a second donor. I know, but seriously, these connections are the life-blood of your organization.

7. Respond to, delete, or folder your email. I try to have no more than 10 emails in my inbox at any given time.

8. Investigate a potential corporate sponsor. Yes, this is a daily activity. If you can do more that is awesome. The more you can reach out to or check into the better.

9. Read. A blog. The newest fundraising book. A book about the cause you fundraise for. Take some time and read. I am currently reading “Heart of the Matter”.

10. Have dinner with your spouse. For sure. Or your significant other. Or a good friend.

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If you liked this post, check out this one, titled “People are still donating”: https://altrui.org/fundraising-tip-people-are-still-donating/

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Take a risk. Be of service. Support your friends and colleagues. Be kind.