“In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.” -Sun Tzu
CHAOS—U.S. households have lost nearly $7 trillion in net worth this year. Inflation is at a 39-year high. Individual giving as a percentage of disposable income has been declining for the past five years and, according to Giving USA, fell to 1.77% in 2021. The last time it was lower than that was in 1995, as the U.S. economy was reeling from the 1990-1991 recession.
OPPORTUNITY—Now is the time to meaningfully connect with the donors who have supported your mission in the past as well as take the opportunity to build bonds with new donors. With ever-changing demographics, it is more important than ever to provide multiple strategies for giving that align with your donors’ interests, ages, abilities and finances while keeping the “funnel” full of new donors as well.
Money chases opportunities. Make sure your development team provides your donors with specific opportunities to engage and support your mission. Educate and empower your development staff to use state-of-the-art donor engagement tools, including Video Storytelling and Mobile Messaging, as well as traditional means like print marketing and websites.
For more than 60 years, Sharpe has been providing innovative services, strategies, training and tools for nonprofits across America. Now is the time to strengthen the relationships with your donors by presenting them with opportunities to make a meaningful difference. Give them the chance to give. ■
Eric Eilertsen
Sharpe Group President & CEO
