Nonprofit fundraisers have certain standard words that get a lot of use. For instance, fundraisers often ask for a gift that is “significant” or “meaningful.” This is a nice way of acknowledging that we would love and appreciate a big gift without the risk of violating decorum or looking flippant. The language is persuasive, but protects us from being too vulnerable or offending the donor with an extravagant dollar figure.
While “significant” and “meaningful” accurately describe the donation you’re seeking, sometimes it’s persuasive to push the comfort level and get real with your prospective donor. You believe your cause is important. Why not reframe that big donation as a personal sacrifice?
If your cause is truly important, then it’s important enough to “sacrifice” for–to accept personal discomfort and stretch your finances to make a big contribution. This sacrifice is the real significance of a “significant” donation–and your donors know it. So why not acknowledge it–and acknowledge your respect for their sacrifice?
Read more interesting thoughts on nonprofit fundraising after the jump:
Is Your Mission Worth Sacrificing For? [The Far Edge of Promise]
