Are you a nonprofit looking to turn your dedicated volunteers into donors? First, I'm just going to step over here and cheer for you for a minute... because you're right on track!! Engaging volunteers as donors can be a great way to increase fundraising revenue and build stronger relationships with your supporters. Here are five tips to help you get started:
Thank Them for Their Time
First and foremost, make sure your volunteers know how much you appreciate their time and effort. A simple thank you note or a personalized message from a staff member can go a long way in showing your appreciation. By thanking your volunteers for their time, you'll show them that their work is valued and that you're invested in their success.
Keep Them Informed
Your volunteers are likely already invested in your organization's mission, but keeping them informed about your work and impact can help deepen their engagement. Share success stories and updates on your programs, and highlight the ways in which volunteers like them are making a difference. By keeping your volunteers in the loop, you'll help them feel like they're part of something bigger than themselves.
Provide Opportunities to Give
Make it easy for your volunteers to become donors by providing opportunities to give. This could be as simple as adding a donation button to your website or including a donation envelope in your volunteer orientation packet. You could also consider hosting a fundraising event specifically for your volunteers or launching a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign. The key is to make giving a seamless and natural part of your volunteer experience.
Celebrate Their Impact
When your volunteers do become donors, make sure to celebrate their impact. Thank them publicly on social media, in your newsletter, or at an event. Share the ways in which their donation is making a difference and highlight the impact of their continued support. By celebrating their generosity, you'll reinforce the idea that their contribution is truly valued.
Offer Opportunities for Leadership
Finally, consider offering your most dedicated volunteers opportunities for leadership within your organization. This could be through volunteer management or even board membership. By giving your volunteers a deeper connection to your organization, you'll help them see the value in becoming a donor and investing in your work long-term.
Engaging volunteers as donors takes time and effort, but the rewards can be significant. By following these tips and investing in your volunteer community, you'll create a culture of giving that can help your nonprofit thrive for years to come.