Giving Compass' Take:

· Writing for GuideStar Blog, Paul Jolly explains how your donors can help you when you harness their enthusiasm and get them more involved in the organization. 

· How can organizations encourage current donors to on-board new donors? How can donors contribute to brainstorming efforts to advance your mission?

· Check out this article to learn how donors can benefit from philanthropy services. 

Some of the smartest things I do are accidents.

I was planning a trip to visit current and potential donors. I sent out the dates that I was available. Two of the people on the list—a current donor (we’ll call him Carl) and a potential donor (we’ll call him Phillip)—responded at the same time. They both said, “I can meet you at 10:00 on Thursday.”

Rather than re-negotiate the calendar with either of them, I asked each of them if they would be willing to meet together. Carl responded, “I’ve known Phillip for 20 years. It would be great to include him in our meeting. He and I often cross over in our various projects.” Phillip wrote back, “Sure. Carl is a member of the synagogue where my wife is a rabbi.”

The meeting was wildly successful. Carl said to Phillip, “The money I have given to this organization is my smartest philanthropic investment.” At the end of the meeting, Phillip shook my hand and said he looks forward to seeing a proposal. It was fundraising magic.

Read the full article about how your donors can help you by Paul Jolly at GuideStar Blog.