Good News: Philanthropy Is Thriving

COVID-19 — Philanthropy is Thriving

What You'll Learn

This past month has been challenging for nonprofits. The COVID-19 crisis has forced organizations to quickly change their fundraising strategies and, for many, adapt their programs to an unprecedented, uncertain situation. In this troubling period, it’s easy to feel a little discouraged and disoriented.

That’s why we wanted to share important news with you — good news! Because when we look at the big picture, philanthropy is actually thriving right now — and so can your nonprofit. 

A $321 billion aid package for small businesses and charities.

The government has implemented new legislation that makes an additional $321 billion available to small businesses and charities. 

  • You can either apply online or through a bank. Online services like PayPal and Kabbage make the process quick and simple. 
  • You’ll just need basic information about your organization and they’ll keep you informed every step of the way. Subscription service companies like Quickbooks, Divvy and Gusto should prove helpful as well. 
  • If you still want to work through a bank, we suggest calling several banks and establishing multiple banking relationships. We especially recommend community banks, and small regional banks. 

Individual giving has increased.

According to a large nonprofit caging processor, individual giving has increased this week compared to the prior three weeks, especially thanks to higher average gifts. Although human services and international relief organizations are seeing the biggest gains, you can also lift your revenue during this crisis by following these few tips, no matter what your mission is:

  • Cultivate your donors. Stewardship is key to fundraising, now more than ever. So keep up the personal conversations with your donors and remember: your mission matters!  
  • Promote the new tax deduction. Add a P.S. to all fundraising solicitations to remind supporters about the new, additional tax deduction benefit up to $300 under the Cares Stimulus Act.  
  • Encourage giving through Donor-Advised Funds (DAF). In March, DAF’s grew 36% year-over-year, with Fidelity Charitable looking for their clients to donate an additional $100 million to support COVID-19 relief efforts. Update your website with information about how donors can support your organization through a DAF. 
  • Embrace digital media. The decline in commercial paid media advertising may create an opportunity for nonprofit organizations. With less competition and lower costs, nonprofits are getting better value from their investments in digital media. Consider increasing your media budget in the short-term.  

It’s Giving Tuesday… Now!

In late March, Giving Tuesday, the groundbreaking global generosity movement, announced a global day of giving and unity set to take place on May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to COVID-19. As a nonprofit, it’s an amazing opportunity to mobilize your community and raise both awareness of your mission and funds. Here are some tips to make the most of it:

  • Use the learnings and best practices from Giving Tuesday 2019. Just in the United States, the movement generated $2 billion in giving, and inspired millions of people worldwide to volunteer, perform countless acts of kindness, and donate their voices, time, money, and goods.
  • Use a multichannel approach. Create buzz on your website with embed videos and customized banners (even animated gifs). Promote the event on social media. Send an email appeal.
  • Use social media. As a nonprofit, you can create fundraisers and accept donations on Facebook/Instagram. Plus, your followers are looking forward to hearing from you. Encourage them to share your message/posts too!
  • Use direct mail. Send a postcard! Most have halted mail so there is less clutter, but people look forward to that daily trip to their mailbox.
  • Use a matching gift offer. People are three times (3X) more likely to donate when they know their gift goes further.
  • Use a reminder. Send a calendar invite for May 5th to all of your contacts.

Read our special blog post on #GivingTuesdayNow for more tips and inspiration. 

If your nonprofit needs support navigating the COVID-19 crisis, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to help. You can contact us at any time. 

About the author
Faircom New York
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