How they see you

Do you know why your donors give?

It might not be for the reasons you would think.

This morning I spoke with the executive director at a local organization who told me they've already secured a $20,000 Exclusive Presenting Sponsorship for their annual gala next year.

She called it, and I quote, "jaw-dropping," "fantastic," "extraordinary," and "a game changer".

Later in the conversation, she mentioned that the sponsor had let on about why they decided to sponsor:

This annual gala — among the many fundraising events held by various charities in our local area each year — is the one event where all of the sponsor's employees a) attend the event, and b) actually have a great time while they're there.

Here's the thing:

Your donors and potential donors will see you in ways you might not expect.

They're not always as passionate about your mission as you are, but they are (or could be) very excited to help you because of something they see in your work — something you might not even have noticed.

If you can learn more about what they see, and if that happens to be compatible with your organization's vision, why not lean into that, and remind them of it through your own messaging?

Yes, it can be good to explain how important your work is to the people in your community.

But if saying "We're also the most fun you'll ever have!" strikes a chord, why not say it a little more often?

All the best,
A.