Givers, Openers, Askers, and Thankers
The Key to Board Fundraising Success
Board members who are enthusiastic, outstanding fundraisers sometimes seem to be nonprofit unicorns. But board members who enjoy and excel at fundraising need not be mythical creatures. In fact, they may actually have been sitting around the table at your last board meeting just waiting for encouragement and coaching to get them started.
While not every board member will be willing to ask for a donation, many will once they get training and understand how to do it. We’ll call those folks ‘askers’. Other board members may have talent with introductions and storytelling. We’ll call those people ‘openers’. All board members are ‘thankers’. Askers, openers, and thankers are all a part of a successful development process.
(Of course, even though it goes without saying, we’re going to say it: all board members should first be generous ‘givers’ and financially support your organization.)
1) Make sure your askers have the skills to make them competent, confident fundraisers.
- Teach them the tricks of the trade, including how to get the meeting and make the ask, and prepare talking points, scripts, and
 written materials. They should fully understand the needs, programs, mission, and success stories of your nonprofit.
- Help the askers understand that they actually do have folks they can ask to donate. Encourage them to create a list of colleagues, relatives, and friends who might have an interest in your nonprofit or event. They should also review our list of donors to see who they know.
- Remind your board members that both small and large donations are needed. It’s a lot less intimidating asking someone to buy a $50 or $100 event ticket than purchase a $10,000 sponsorship. (Though don’t rule those out either!)
 2) Openers can introduce potential donors that they know to the askers on the board. Openers can also help raise funds by sharing your organization’s story on social media or through speaking engagements. Encourage them to end their posts and talks by asking people to visit your website and get involved.
3) Thankers should call donors to personally thank them for their generosity. Studies have shown such personal contact increases contributions and donor retention. It also helps you gauge the level of your donor’s interest in your organization.
Board involvement is essential for a successful nonprofit. Encouraging your board members to be thankers, askers, and openers can create engagement and help you fulfill your mission.
If you want to learn more about helping your board members understand their fundraising responsibilities and their roles as askers, thankers, and openers, please call Capacity Partners. We can help you develop your board members’ development skills. Please contact us at mary@capacitypartners.com or 240-462-5151.
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