Buscar

Translate

Fund Raise Efforts Can Help Make The World A Better Place

By Helen Parker


There is simply not enough funds available to allow the authorities to fund every worthwhile cause, of which there is a bewildering variety. That is why charities and other organizations, such as churches and schools are forced to raise their own funds. This is done by appealing directly to potential sponsors, by organizing special fundraising events and by applying for grants. For many organizations, fund raise efforts are the only means of continued survival.

Fundraising used to imply taking to the streets asking coins from passers by or by organizing bazaars or jumble sales. Modern technology and increased demands from charities have changed all this. These days fundraising is an art practised by professionals. It is highly specialized and require skilled individuals to identify potential donors and to convince them to support a specific cause. These days fundraising efforts are conducted globally, using internet technology as a main communications channel.

There is an astonishing number of societies, political movements, non profit organizations and even individuals clamouring for charitable support. This has created an extremely competitive environment. Fundraisers have to convince potential donors that their causes are truly worthwhile. That is why most charities employ specialists specially tasked with the responsibility to raise support from donors. They need to be innovative and they need to have excellent communication skills.

Fundraisers are challenged by the fact that donors have become wary and fatigued. They are overwhelmed by appeals for help and they have limited resources for charitable donations. In many cases they are approached by various charities that have the same cause and they do not always know which of them perform best in achieving their aims. Larger donors are also starting to expect some form of tangible benefit in exchange for their help.

There is another major challenge that must be overcome by fundraisers. Donors, both corporate and private, have become discontent with the way their donations is used. There have been numerous cases where charities have been caught using donations for private enrichment. In many cases an inordinate percentage of donations are employed for administrative costs. Donors have become careful and even suspicious.

Successful fundraisers obtain donations from the same donors time and time again. This is only possible, however, if they are honest and if they can show the donor exactly where and how the donation has been used. A transparent fundraising agency that makes its financial statements readily available are also more likely to succeed. Successful fundraisers establish long term relationships with their supporters and they make sure that they provide regular feedback.

Individuals and organizations often feel that it is their duty to make a difference by supporting at least one worthwhile course. Choosing a cause to support can be difficult, however. Care should be taken to make sure that the charity is properly licensed and that it enjoys a good reputation for achieving results and for actually making a difference in the fields with which they are involved.

Most people and reputable organizations realize that they have a duty to help make the world a better place. Helping worthwhile charities is probably the best way. Every little contribution helps, even it if it is only time and effort that can be donated.




About the Author:



 
ITS ALL ABOUT Finance © 2012