I placed a check in the box with enthusiasm when thoughtfully filling out an online survey I received via email from a local nonprofit. “Yes”, I am interested in becoming a volunteer. I have donated several times in the past, my children have attended their workshops, my artwork has hung in their galleries and I even tried piano and voice lessons from their instructors. The only thing I had not yet done was to actually volunteer. Weeks and then months passed without a response to my excited checkmark. Oh, but there is a Spring Annual Appeal letter from this same nonprofit that is opened but lays hesitantly on my desk.

While making a professional visit to a different nonprofit this week I was asked, “Who are my best planned giving prospects?” I was immediately reminded of the insult I felt from my online survey experience because up to that point I would have been a great planned giving prospect for them.  “Look to the level of engagement of your constituents, you will find them there”, I replied, giving examples that might paint an engagement picture of just such a prospect.

It is not just about the wealth or money. The true indicator of donor loyalty is a commitment to your mission that may be expressed in a variety of different ways. The one thing expected from the giver (of money, time or outreach) is communication from the nonprofit. Tell me how I make a difference with my donations, my time and my participation. That will keep me coming back and giving back.

I am still not sure if I will respond to the Spring Annual Appeal but I might just propose that I volunteer to help them better coordinate their volunteerism!

Soft Trac is  a woman-owned business and accomplished team of nonprofit software consultants.  We believe in making nonprofits "do good" better.   For more information on any of the topics discussed in this blog or to learn more about the software products and services we offer, please CONTACT Soft Trac.