Most Donors Plan to Maintain Giving in 2009 March 25, 2009

Now is not the time to put your fundraising efforts on ice!  While 401(k)s have taken a hit and jobs are less secure, the majority of donors plan to donate as much this year as they did last year, according to an article published last week in the Chronicle of Philanthropy (http://philanthropy.com/news/updates/index.php?id=7442).  

The article cites a survey, completed in January, of 17,365 individuals who are past givers to charity.  The survey indicates 52% of donors will give at the same level as in 2008, while 17.5% said they are giving less.  The remaining 30% said it was too soon to tell, presenting a challenge and an opportunity for savvy fundraisers.

According the the article, "respondents were prepared to make sacrifices to sustain their philanthropy.  Of those who planned to give at least as much in 2009, 50 percent said they were willing to make compromises in other areas of their life to do so."

It has never been more important than now to cultivate and care for your valuable donors.  Don't be shy to ask for their support, and don't assume they won't support you as they have in the past.  Finally, make sure you have a tool like GiftWorks Fundraising Software to ensure you fully know your donors, understand their support, and can ask for it again in the most meaningful and personal way.