At a loss in the COVID-19 environment and wondering whether to take a “wait and see” approach for your Nonprofit? If we are to learn anything from the lessons of history, it is that organizations taking strategic action now will be ready to take advantage of opportunities that will arise for many months after the crisis ends.
- Stay Informed
Watch funders’ websites and social media to stay up-to-date on their crisis response and opportunities for special funding. Keep an eye on your inbox for communication from funders and funding collaboratives to make sure you don’t miss something.
- Tell your Story
Remind funders, donors, and other supporters of the heartbeat status they hold in your organization. Tell them how your organization is addressing the new challenges your clients face. Give them an avenue to help if they wish, but keep the focus on sharing your current story and reassuring them that you continue to meet your mission because of their support. Be brief. Just as your attention is being pulled a thousand different directions, theirs likely is, too.
- Nurture Your Volunteers
Keep them informed through your regular communication channels. Social distancing requirements and cancellations likely mean they are missing the connections they’ve created with your staff and clients. Consider out-of-the-box ways they might be able to continue to support your organization.
- Steward Your Donors
If your development staff has extra time right now, shift their focus to stewarding your most loyal donors by handwriting a few thank you notes, making personal phone calls for recent gifts, or spotlighting key donors on your social channels.
- Stay Connected
Schedule virtual coffee to check in with colleagues and friends in your organization and the sector. Share ideas and information for addressing unique challenges and moving forward.
- Reach Out
Our team of experienced nonprofit professionals is here to help with ideas and strategies for any of the above—and more. Let us know how we can help you.