Are you Wealthy or Are you Rich?

Last November, I experienced something very special. Although I have traveled to the far reaches of the world through my association with Soroptimist International, I never had the opportunity to visit Cuba. When I heard our church was hosting a mission trip to help children and families there, I signed up immediately.

The poverty was startling, even gut wrenching. But, it was far outweighed by the joy and warmth we experienced. Despite circumstances most Americans would consider politically oppressive and economically cruel, both the children and adults showered us with lavish generosity. The little they had to share in the way of food and accommodations was multiplied many times over by their spirit of abundant hospitality. These people are by no means wealthy, but they certainly are rich.

Are people genetically wired to be generous or can they be inspired to give? In my experience, the answer to both parts of the question is "yes." Some people are born or raised with a magnanimous heart. And, there are those who come to realize the joy of giving over time and through the encouragement of others. 

As President of a nonprofit children's organization for 18 years, I found a significant part of my job involved fundraising---or should I say "friend-raising." Even though we had a Development Office devoted to this task, for many donors there is great value in having contact with the executive director. As a result, I made many new friends over the course of my tenure. Our V.P. of Development reinforced a philosophy that I found to be true and it continues to resonate in my heart.

Here are the THREE BASIC LESSONS I learned early on about fundraising:

1.  It's all about relationships

People give to people. If someone feels a personal connection to your cause, they are more likely to give, and give in a significant way. Relationships can take time and attention. Pay attention to your donors.     

Oftentimes, contributors may be motivated to give toward a specific aspect of your work or would welcome the invitation to memorialize a loved one through a naming opportunity. Listen...ask questions. Get to know what is important to them.  

2.  People give because it makes them feel good

And why do they "feel good?"...because they believe their donation is being used to either change lives or save lives. Don't just paint a sorrowful picture of how needy and downtrodden your clients are - share with them the good news of how their lives have been changed and improved through your work. Sympathy and compassion will tug on people's heartstrings, but having solid information on how they can partner with you to "save lives" will tug on their purse strings.

3.  Say "Thank You"

No matter how small the gift. Every donor should know you appreciate their involvement. Be sincere in expressing your gratitude. Whenever possible make sure your thank you is personalized. It makes a big difference.

Generosity breeds generosity... and joy is their offspring. If you can inspire donors to experience delight in giving, they will likely long to replicate the feeling.

Our church is planning another trip to Cuba this fall. I can't wait. It is not because I feel pity for the Cuban people with whom we spent time. Indeed, their lives are difficult. And yet, they are like beautiful flowers blooming in rocky, hard places.  

I am willing to donate my time and resources again for three important reasons: 1. I developed relationships with the children and their families; 2. I believe my presence was making a difference in their lives; and 3. Their gratitude was overwhelming.

Be rich, and inspire others to do likewise. Let it be said of you that generosity is one of your outstanding characteristics.