Categories: Philosophy/motivation

The 80/20 rule still applies… if you'll apply it.

In commercial business, we call it the 80/20 rule.

80% of your revenue and/or profits will come from 20% of your clients.
It’s the same in fundraising.  As long as you communicate with your donors, you’ll get more revenue from them.
Most non-profits spend a ton of money on acquisition when it’s really the core segments of your database that will deliver the greatest returns for your marketing dollars— especially in the form of planned gifts.

  • Communicate with donors.
  • Remind them about their giving frequency (because most people forget how often they really give).
  • Tell them what you’ve done with their money.
  • Let them know you couldn’t have done it with out them.
  • Clearly outline why you still need their help.
  • Be specific.
  • Break it down (i.e.- “Just $19 could feed a family for a week.”).
  • Be respectful but ask for the gift.
Greg Warner

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Greg Warner

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