As summer fades and we approach the fall season, it’s a natural time to reflect on the past few months and prepare for the final stretch of the year. In Northern Virginia, where I’m writing this, we’ve hit what we affectionately call “False Fall.” It’s that short, cooler period before the summer heat comes back in full force—just like the surge of activity that hits fundraisers before year-end.
While fall might feel like it’s “almost here,” it’s a reminder that we’re entering a busy time. End-of-year campaigns, donor communications, and annual appeals will soon be upon us. For fundraisers, now is the perfect time to shift gears, take stock, and prepare for the big opportunities ahead—especially for those of us looking to Go Big with Mega Gift Fundraising.
Wrapping Up the Summer Series on Donor Communications
Before diving into Mega Gifts, let’s reflect on our recent series on donor communications. Last week, we discussed the powerful impact of storytelling through a direct mail campaign by the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. Here are a few key takeaways from feedback shared by readers:
- Storytelling: Many readers praised the emotional storytelling, which captured attention and moved people to action. Some even admitted it brought them to tears, showing the power of a heartfelt narrative.
- Clarity: However, a few noted that while the letter was impactful, it could have benefitted from more editing to improve flow and readability.
Ultimately, the letter succeeded in cutting through the clutter, a critical step in any fundraising effort. If a piece doesn’t get opened or read, it won’t inspire action—and this package passed that first test.
Launching a New Series: Going Big! with Mega Gifts
Now, as we transition into fall, it’s time to take on an exciting new challenge: Mega Gift fundraising. Over the next few weeks, we’ll dive into a comprehensive series focused on strategies for securing transformative, high-impact gifts that can propel your organization forward.
Here’s a preview of the topics we’ll cover in this new series:
- What is the definition of a Mega Gift?
- How do I evaluate if my organization has programs that could attract Mega Gifts?
- How can I collaborate with my team to develop or enhance programs that attract Mega Gifts?
- How do I prioritize and qualify donors who might be open to a Mega Gift?
- How do I create “journeys” for individual donors who might consider a Mega Gift?
- What due diligence should I do with the donor to ensure my prioritization is right?
- How do I initiate a Mega Gift conversation? What should I avoid?
- What do I do if the donor says yes to considering a Mega Gift?
- What do I do if the donor says no?
- How do I co-create a Mega Gift with the donor?
- How do I execute the solicitation for a Mega Gift?
- What do I do if the donor declines the solicitation?
- What do I do if the donor agrees to the gift?
- How do I steward the Mega Gift over the long term?
Ready to Go Big?
If you’re looking to elevate your fundraising game this fall, then Mega Gift fundraising is where you can make a BIG impact. Stay tuned as we embark on this journey together, exploring how to engage with donors at a transformational level and build lasting partnerships that change lives.
