Inclusive fundraising is a different way of thinking about philanthropy. It goes beyond traditional methods by actively seeking to include underrepresented and marginalized groups.
It benefits you and your org to view your fundraising through this lens. Read on to learn why and how!
Why Does Inclusive Fundraising Matter?
Enhanced Community Engagement
Think of the domino effect. At its very core, inclusive fundraising involves more people. More people means more diversity. More diversity means more people who know they belong. And so on and so forth! Rinse and repeat. This is one of the ways in which inclusive fundraising strategies not only strengthen social bonds, but also lead to more overall donations.
Equity
Sometimes – not always, but often – traditional fundraising fails to take into account the giving potential of marginalized communities. There are studies that suggest the less people have, the more they give. Inclusive fundraisers don’t make assumptions about anyone’s philanthropic power and the source of said power! After all, there’s far more than one way to be generous. Folks can donate their time and talents through volunteering. They can share an NPO’s message on their social media channels and encourage their followers to, as well. All of this is contagious. It’s community-building. Everyone is invited!
Elevate Outcomes
The wisest nonprofits keep inclusive fundraising front-of-mind to make sure their donors and supporters KNOW that they are seen, heard, valued and appreciated. Consistent and intentional donor appreciation strategies lead to more supporters and less attrition. The outcome, of course, equals more resources for your org and more innovative ideas for everyone. Expanded ideas AND expanded reach? Yes, please!
Expand Your Reach
You always need new donors, right? You’re probably already utilizing email campaigns, your website, and social media channels to communicate with your donors and make your calls to action. But are you still reaching out the old-fashioned way, too? Pick up the phone. Your mature donors will very likely answer!
Cultural Competence
Who’s in your audience? You must know who your donors are in order to target and effectively communicate with them, but you also need to know so you can demonstrate cultural sensitivity. For example, say you’re planning an event benefitting people of Jewish or Islamic faiths. Make sure you don’t have pork on the menu! Similarly, if you’re fundraising for PETA, your menu better be vegan.
Choose the date of your event wisely, as well. Avoid holidays. Check to make sure your event doesn’t conflict with another big event. You don’t want your donors to have to choose whom to support!
Transparency
What are you raising money for? People want and deserve to know whom and what their donations will benefit. Plus it builds trust. Donors who truly trust you will be more generous. Trust us on this!
Friendraiser + Fundraising Events
Community Socials
Informal gatherings are inherently more accessible than big-ticket galas. In the spirit of inclusive fundraising, consider turning your event-planning skills toward a more casual “friendraiser.” Picnics, potlucks, coffee dates, ice cream socials – all of these activities encourage folks to connect with each other and with your org. They may not raise as much money as a more formal gala, but they DO build community and strengthen your relationships with your donors and supporters.
Networking Events
Inclusive fundraising creates opportunities for people from different backgrounds to meet and network with each other. They can take many forms: panel discussions, workshops, storytelling events. Are any of your staff or board members experts in something interesting? Invite them to demonstrate and/or talk about it. You can absolutely build a casual event around someone’s special talent or niche knowledge.
Multicultural Festivals
Ever been to Oktoberfest in Mount Angel? The Scandi Fest in Junction City? You don’t always need a passport to immerse yourself in a different culture. These events allow folks to feast on traditional food, music, activities and art. Festivals attract a diverse crowd, potentially encouraging donations from attendees who feel a personal connection to the cause. Everyone is German for the day at Oktoberfest!
Collaborative Campaigns
Find Diverse Partners
It might not make the best sense for two orgs with similar missions to collaborate (though sometimes, it does!). Too much competition for donor dollars. But cooperation between diverse orgs can be a very powerful thing. Joint campaigns designed to leverage each other’s strengths – now that’s powerful! And it can attract a wider donor base.
Inclusive Digital Engagement
Social Media Challenges
Remember 2014’s Ice Bucket Challenge, benefiting ALS research? It’s perhaps one of the most famous and most successful social media challenges ever. If you’re an innovative fundraiser (in addition to an inclusive one), brainstorm with your team and see what you can come up with. If you’re stumped, go with the tried-and-true methods: photo challenges, hashtag campaigns and/or virtual events. They’re all perfect platforms to experiment with. Make sure they are user-friendly and accessible to people with disabilities. Also if your demographic is multilingual, consider providing multiple language options to reach a broader, more diverse audience.
Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
Every org should be doing these in some form. For real. They are simple and effective. With peer-to-peer fundraising, you set up your own personal page with the help of a software company – while that may sound daunting, it’s actually easier and faster than you might think! Then you tell your followers all about your cause, who or what you’re supporting (and why) and encourage them to support you.
Educational Workshops + Panels
Webinars
We love webinars! Use them for education. Panel discussions on hot-button issues. Include speakers from diverse backgrounds with unique stories. You’ll reach a more diverse crowd and you’ll show your respect for folks with different lifestyles and beliefs.
DEI-Focused Workshops
Host workshops and panels on diversity, equity, and inclusion topics. These events can educate the community, promote the cause, and inspire attendees to support the organization financially.
Inclusive Recognition Programs
Diverse Donor Acknowledgment
Recognize donors from all backgrounds in your communications and events. Highlighting stories of diverse donors can inspire others to give and to feel seen and valued.
Community Impact Awards
Create awards that recognize the contributions of individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds who have made significant impacts. It’s inspiring to all and encourages others to contribute.
Inclusive fundraising is not just a trend; it’s the evolution of philanthropy. By embracing inclusion, organizations can create more effective and sustainable fundraising campaigns. Let’s evolve together.
Ready to change the world? Reach out!