The Fundraising Factory - Archive for December, 2009

Is Your Non Profit In the Trash Can?

Monday, December 28th, 2009

News Alert!
The largest amount of charitable contributions come in the last week of the year.

That may explain why my mailbox was stuffed with 11 solicitations from non profits this week.  Chances are, you opened your mailbox to find a pile of them as well.  To my amazement, 6 non profits that I have not supported before were soliciting donations.  What’s up with that?  Have we lost all our manners?  Who would ever introduce themselves and the first thing they do is ask for money?

I am at a loss as to why nonprofits do not understand the importance of investing in meaningful relationships with potential new donors.  When nonprofits make decisions to obtain unqualified mailing lists, there is a hefty price to be paid.  If potential donors get this kind of unsolicited request, they can be turned off and left with a bad taste in their mouth.  Money spent on paper, ink, postage, not to mention staff and volunteer time has been wasted.  Donors may feel as though the nonprofit is not a good steward of their money and the nonprofits reputation is at risk if a donor views them as irresponsible.  Not good ROI!

The next 4 envelopes that I opened were donation requests from organizations that I have supported in the past.  5 years in the past!  Clearly those mailing lists need attention and cleaning up.  The nonprofits would be far better off  sending me a seasonal card.  At least I could be under grand delusions that I am more than a name and address on an envelope.  Yes I am being sarcastic but really, a once a year communication does not make for a relationship.  What’s that phrase?  “Out of sight out of mind.”

At last….ah a request from a nonprofit I recognize.  An immediate smile crosses my face.  Why?  I always receive a letter from them letting me know how the money I gave them is being put to work.  Sometimes I get flyers too with updates so I won’t miss a future event.  They EVEN send me hand written notes just to say hi and wish me well AND they don’t ask me for money every time I hear from them.  I truly believe this organization not only cares about the people they serve but they also care about the people who support them.  That’s real community and that’s what works for me as a donor.  I know I can’t be the only one that feels this way.

So if you want more donors, put some thought into your direct mail communication strategy.  Communicate with donors regularly (more than once a year).  Vary the content (it doesn’t always have to be about you) and yes ask for money (sometimes).

As always, Happy Fundraising!

Lucinda

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Choosing a Fundraising Company that’s Right for your Nonprofit

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009

If you are thinking about fundraising with a product keep your credit card in your wallet until you’ve read this.  Finding a fundraising company that you can count on and trust takes some due diligence.  If you have googled fundraising products then you know there are a slew of companies out there.  It can actually be overwhelming.  All of them promise a product that is easy to sell and highly profitable.  There’s a lot more to it.  Increase your chance of success by asking these 5 questions of any fundraising company.

  • How long has the company been in the business of selling fundraising products?  If a company has been in business for a long period of time it probably means that nonprofits have been successful with the sale of their products.  On the other hand, if they have just hung their shingle, some research is in order.  Talking with their clients is one sure way to learn about them.  If they won’t give you references, RUN!  Find a company that will.
  • Does the company have an excellent customer service staff?  Email communication may be convenient but nothing replaces a human being on the other end of the phone when you really need to talk to someone.  Look for people who are courteous, professional and friendly.  A great fundraising company wants you to be successful and will ask you questions about your organization in order to guide you to a product that is best suited for you.  If the fundraising company just takes your order, or simply “sells you” then buyer beware. 
  • Does the company provide support services?  Fundraising sales tips, marketing materials, displays, website linking opportunities, regularly scheduled email communication and newsletters are added necessities that will enhance your fundraising campaign.
  • Does the fundraising company guarantee their products?  Companies that offer a guarantee truly believe that their product works.  Request a written return, refund, or exchange document to have on hand if you need to refer to it as you do business with the company.
  • Does the company maintain inventory levels and shipping schedules that meet your needs?  You will be very disappointed if the product you want is unavailable OR it doesn’t arrive in time for your event.

Finally, when someone you know refers a fundraising company to you then it’s a good bet you can trust them.  So here’s my referral to you.  Although it’s  a new and small company, the owner, Ron Dover is a friend of mine.  The company is Be-Who-U-R.  The product is adorable T-Shirts and the story behind the company will make your heart sing.  You’ll love it!  Check them out http://www.b-who-u-r.com

Happy Fundraising!

Lucinda

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Finding the Right Fundraising Product is…..

Wednesday, December 16th, 2009
Like a good pair of shoes…I am talking about selecting the right product that “fits” your organization when it comes to fundraising with merchandise.  The primary goal in selling products is to raise money for the campaign/fundraiser. Although that may be the first thing that comes to mind, it is also important to think beyond the immediate sale.  Sure, you can make a few dollars with the sale of consumables such as candy or popcorn but consider whether the impression and the payoff has longevity.  That is one of many questions for contemplation when deciding on merchandise.  Here are a few more:

Is the fundraising product compatible with your organization’s mission?  By selecting a product that compliments your non profit and its mission you create a clear and direct brand through association.  Marketing and promoting the product becomes seamless and transparent.

Are your volunteers, supporters and board members behind the product that you have chosen to use as a fundraiser?  It is critical to have complete “buy in” and belief from those that you rely on to make the fundraiser a success.  The more agreement and excitement you have from your organization, the more successful your fundraiser will be.

What about competition?  Are other non profits in your area using product to raise money for their organization?  Take the time to research what others are using for fundraising and differentiate yourself from them.  Customers don’t want the same old same old.  Sure they want to help a good cause but remember, there are many good causes and only so much money to go around ,so give them something that excites them and makes your non profit stand out.

Do you have access to your audience?  Visibility, easy access, and awareness of your fundraising efforts are critical in executing a successful fundraiser.  Use the 3 P’s.  Plan, prepare, promote.  Market your events and product so people know what you are selling, where you are selling it, and how they can buy it.  Finally, create a powerful marketing message that explains the services your non profit can provide from the proceeds of their purchase.

Have you chosen a quality product that will leave a lasting impression in addition to generating a solid return on investment?  Keep in mind that selling products is an investment; a monetary investment to acquire the product and an investment in volunteers and staff to sell it.  Be sure you are generating solid profits from your investments.  Look for products that have a %100 markup.

Have you identified the selling points of the fundraising product?  Is it made in the US?  Is it green?  What makes it distinguishable?  Is there anything special about the fundraising company or product that can be shared with the customers that will enhance the shopping experience?  Products that are merely consumables are “out” these day.  Customers expect more for their money.

Have you looked at Lucinda Pins?  Couldn’t help but throw that in.  Of course you have.

Cheers folks!  As always Happy Fundraising!

Lucinda


PS…Next week on the agenda…How to choose the right fundraising company for merchandise fundraising.

 

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Fundraising 20 Years and counting

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

It’s the end of a tumultuous year and I once again find myself reflecting on my start up days back in ’89; the good ole’ years that I seem to store in the back of my mind.  I’m pleasantly surprised that I am still in the business of offering a unique product that has helped so many non profits raise money and awareness for their organizations. Given that I am a “hands on” owner of a manufacturing company in Maine, I can speak from experience how merchandise fundraising to the impact of the internet have changed the fundraising arena.

20 years ago, I believe I was cutting edge, hip, even a pioneer because I was one of the very first businesses to offer a fundraising product that was handmade. Every Lucinda pin carried a message that was as important as the money that these pins raised for the non profit. Designs by Lucinda stood out from companies that were pushing candy bars, magazines and popcorn.  Now, I’m certainly not knocking the latter but I must say I was proud to present a product that stood out from the crowd. 

I could digress, or show my bias on why one should find a niche, create an original product that is memorable, sustainable and timeless, but I want to focus on how to fundraise with a product.  It very well may be the candles or candy.  But I want to leave you with some food for thought as you determine which product(s) you should use to raise awareness, generate commitment and to fund your cause or interest.  So here are my “2 cents”:
Fundraising through product sales is pretty simple on the surface. Your organization sells a product such as candles, candy, magazines, gift wrap, or Lucinda pins and keeps the proceeds from the sale.  This type of fundraising can be successful, profitable and generate enough money to become a line item in your budget; or it can leave the organization and its volunteers weary and rethinking if it was worth their time. Excess money and energy can be expended if certain considerations and planning are not explored ahead of time. In order to maximize your investment in fundraising products to generate revenue and recognition consider the following:

■Select a quality product that will help you achieve a solid return on investment. I personally believe that you should generate a 100% profit. There are companies that can give you both.

■Locate unique products that are desirable to the customer and reasonably priced.  People love original fundraising products and affordability broadens your market. 

■Train and support your volunteer network.  Your success often is tied to the enthusiasm of your volunteers. Customers feed off positive energy and enjoy working with a knowledgeable staff person.  A solid product coupled with an informative volunteer increases product sales.

■Develop a plan that will allow you to execute a successful fundraiser. It is critical to have the details addressed from taking orders to answering questions and fulfilling each order.  Remember, donors have endless non profits to choose from! Make their experience with your organization personal and unique – each contact should be smooth, enjoyable and memorable from start to finish.  This will result in repeat giving and priceless word of mouth.

In next week’s blog I will talk about how to select the right products for your organization.  If you have any questions or comments, please leave them and I promise to respond as soon as the next batch of pins comes out of the oven!

Happy Fundraising!
Lucinda

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House Pins 1989 Nostalgia

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009

As 2010 approaches, DBL marks 21 years of making Lucinda pins.  Gosh, time flies when you’re having fun.  Employees, non profits, technology, the marketplace and personal experiences have all influenced the design of Lucinda Pins. 

The hundreds of pin designs created, retired, and even designs never released are a reminder of the days, years and decades of process, decisions and changes that my company has encountered.  They represent the history of Designs by Lucinda, recalling memories of volunteers, pinladies, non profits and the hundreds of stories shared with me about how one small pin idea has changed the lives of so many. 

As different themes of pins have come to life, been retired, or never shown outside the doors of DBL I made sure to pack some away for the sake of good ole nostalgia.  Today I took a stroll down memory lane.  I thought it would be fun to share with you a tiny bit of what was found inside the Designs by Lucinda boxes from 1989.

An original 1989 House Pin

I found simplicity.  It defined the beginning of a great idea in concept and design.  House Pins with just a door.  Imagine that.  I saw a commitment to originality; the millions of hours required to make no two alike!  What was I thinking?  I remembered people and emotions. 

I stared at designs that raised money for so many different causes that impacted so many lives and evoked so many feelings.  I thought, these pins changed the lives of thousands, not excluding my pinladies, volunteers, past employees, some who were my immediate family. 

Mom did you ever think we’d have to make 5 million pins?  In reminiscing and pawing through some of my original work.  I found vintage house pins.  The very first pins that launched my company.  Now there’s a word I never thought would be used to describe Lucinda pins. 

Pins so large they could be seen from a mile away.  But after all, it was the big 80’s.  I have a saying that I often use because of its relevance in every day situations. 

Life is about stories and Lucinda pins bring stories to life.  They are a testimony that there is greatness in small ideas.  I have come to the conclusion that it is time to give some of these legendry pins a home.  If you want to give an old house pin a new home this is your chance. 

Take a peek at what was a part of my original work 20 years ago.  House Pins 1989.  This is only the beginning of my walk down memory lane.  Check back often as I will be sharing more of what’s in the pin boxes.  Except, I’ll try not to cry next time.

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