Relationship Fundraising Done Right and Wrong

Key Takeaways:

• Relationship fundraising vs. customer service

  • Fundraising requires deep, trust-based relationships, not just good service.

• Social psychology in fundraising

  • Concepts like identity-fusion theory help explain donor loyalty and engagement.

• Exchange vs. communal relationships

  • Fundraisers must focus on long-term donor commitment over one-time transactions.

• Key dimensions of relationship fundraising

  • Trust, commitment, and satisfaction drive donor retention.

• Evolution of fundraising strategies

  • Relationship Fundraising 2.0 and 3.0 incorporate new research-backed techniques.

• Charitable Triad Theory

  • Understanding the interaction between donors, beneficiaries, and fundraisers enhances impact.

• Case study insights

  • Real-world examples showcase practical tweaks for effective donor relations.

• Incremental improvements

  • Small, strategic changes can boost donor engagement without overwhelming resources.