I had the pleasure of sitting down with a person in the community who was known to be generous in his financial giving. After much conversation, they agreed to share their feelings and thoughts about why they gave. They also agreed to share some tips nonprofit organizations might want to heed if they expect someone to be interested in giving to them.
Interviewer:
I am really glad you have decided to share your information with the nonprofit community and hopefully let them know what makes you and other donors like you tick.
Donor:
Well, I know it sounds corny but I am happy to be helpful in sharing my thoughts. I hope this information will keep many well-intentioned organizations from making the mistakes so many organizations seem to make.
Interviewer:
So exactly how many organizations do you contribute to annually?
Donor:
It varies from year to year. I guess I look at the causes that seem to really be meeting the needs of the community. I do have at least three organizations that I support on a regular basis, but in total I give to ten or more. I also serve on many boards in various capacities including being an officer of the board, i.e. President or Vice President.
Interviewer:
Now, of those ten organizations does that include your church? From what I read, the church in some cases gets a large percentage many donors’ contributions.
Donor:
Well, I do think the church is important; however, in many ways the church has long gotten away from what I feel the “original ” church’s mission was in the beginning. If you honestly think about it now, not many churches take care of the poor or the needy like they once did. That is now the job of nonprofits in many ways. Nonprofits are the safety net when churches or the government don’t seem to be able to do what is needed. I feel it is unfortunate many churches just aren’t being a part of the community like they need to be.
Interviewer:
OK, Tell me why you give to a nonprofit?
Donor:
Well, it is simple in many ways and complex in others. I give because I think the cause is a good cause. I know about the organization. I have been to the organization. I talk to the staff and talk to the clients sometimes. The organization does not have to be a warm fuzzy organization, but obviously it does help when the cause is one that lots of others tend to rally around. I give to organizations having board members I know and respect. Also, I like to feel needed in the process. I like to feel that my contribution is appreciated and does make a difference in the lives of others.
Interviewer:
Wow, you made lots of key points that I plan to expand upon later! Now, tell me what things nonprofits do to disappoint you.
Donor:
Well, that is a tough question. I honestly try to be pure in my giving and not expect anything in return, but I do find myself wanting not so much to be recognized but for there to be a genuine appreciation and respect for what I do for the organization. I have little tolerance when the board of directors are not themselves giving at some level. If I am investing in the organization as an outsider why aren’t they? There have been occasions that because I have been so good to the organization they seem to expect it. Several organizations I don’t think have ever really stopped to add up how much I have given to them over the year. They have no way of tracking how much I give or how often and some do little to inform me of their needs. For me, too, it all gets back to the organization staff and executive really being genuine. There have been times I have just wanted to quit giving because I have been disappointed. That is when I have to personally ask myself to adjust my way of thinking and realize that I am doing it for the people I am helping, not because of the staff or the executive director’s response to my giving.
Interviewer:
As we talk, I have noticed all the plaques in your office. If I counted right there must be at least twenty. It is obvious and impressive that people have tried to say thanks.
Donor:
Yes, and I have a box of more in my closet as well. It is nice, and I don’t want anyone to get the wrong impression but I read somewhere that if you truly what to let someone know you appreciate what they do for you, you should thank them seven (7) times for every gift they give. I have never gotten that type of response! Also, I have gotten very few personal notes of thanks that shows me someone took a little more time and effort. I also think it is bad when at the end of the year I have to call and get a donation letter for my taxes or have the organization send me the same form letter over and over and write in the amount I gave.
Interviewer:
Wow, again you covered lots of ground and shared lots of information that I think is truly valuable to the nonprofit. You told me earlier that you already have over one million dollars in planned gifts to various charities and you expect to have other gifts in place. Why?
Donor:
That is correct. I think it is very important to help nonprofits secure their own future. Honestly, part of me is very concerned about leaving a large amount of money to an organization for two reasons. One, I do not want this to hinder their ability to raise other funds after they receive a large gift. Second, I don’t want this to make their board lazy and not be as active as they should be in raising operational dollars. However, with all that said, I do wish to have the ability to help in allowing the organization an ability to serve more clients or grow and expand in other areas. That is why I am looking at planned gifts for various nonprofits. If I am lucky, I will hopefully be able to contribute at least $3 million dollars to charity in my lifetime and at my death.
Interviewer:
Quite an impact! Is there any last thing you would like to tell the nonprofits out there? Maybe special hints or tips?
Donor:
Yes, Start everyday by building relationships with donors. Forget the idea of a total stranger coming into your facility and handing you a check for big dollars! The reputation of your organization in the community is a key. You have to have a good board of directors that understand your organization. You must have a staff and program that truly does serve the entire community, not just a little part of the community.
Lastly, never take for granted anything someone gives you! If you do, it may be the last gift you will ever get.
DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to provide legal or accounting advice, or to address specific situations. Please consult with your legal or tax advisor to supplement and verify what you learn here.
