What Donors expect from Board Members

The relationship between board members and donors is one of the most important relationships throughout the course of the campaign. Though often left unsaid, the following points are crucial in creating and maintaining a positive relationship with the donor.

Donors look for:

·   A strong and passionate commitment to the organization and campaign from every board member

·   An honest and sincere team that will use the donor’s money wisely to help advance one step closer to the end goal of the campaign

·   Courage in the ask and development of the campaign

·   An honest and forthright relationship; the relationship means more than the money

·   Strong communication between the board member and the donor

·   A professional board – professionalism is the ‘make it or break it’ factor in feeling comfortable and strong in his decision to support your campaign

Donors want to know:

·  “Why should I support your organization?”

·  “How committed to this project and campaign are you?”

·   “How do you plan to use my money?”

·   “How will I be sure my money is being used as intended?”

Above all, donors want to know that their time and resources are helping to make a difference; be sure to thank them at least three times.