Share the Difficult Roads

Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations. The next few months are going to be tough. It’s going to get worse before it gets better. Organizations will stumble, shift their ways, and ultimately figure out how to fulfill mission. Let your donors see it.

I’m sure your organization is adjusting appeals and sharing how and when to make an appeal with your donors. That’s a given. I hope you’re also telling them how hard it’s been. How difficult the road has been. How COVID-19 has adversely impacted the mission and the way you do business.

I remember a time during the last recession when investments didn't live up expectations for one endowment fund I worked with, and we were stuck. Surely we couldn't proclaim our losses? But we did. We were honest about the market situation and how we lost. It was hard to write and hard to ship out into the universe. But you know what? That was our best performing appeal that year!

Your donors don’t expect you to be perfect, especially in times of emergency. But they do expect your honesty. Your donors know how difficult it is to fulfill your mission right now. They are with you on this journey to fulfill your mission. They will appreciate your willingness to recognize what went wrong, embrace what works and change and adapt.

Want to chat about the difficult road ahead or brainstorm ideas? I’m here to help. I’m happy to serve as a sounding board for any fundraiser on a one hour call or video chat. No fees involved. We’re all in this together. Click here to schedule.