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
Tags: Fundraising Products, Volunteers
