Community Fundraising The American Legion Children & Youth Conference 2007

Introduction Grassroots Fundraising Americans contribute more than $200 billion dollars a year to charitable purposes of great diversity. Fundraising not only provides money for your programs, they help educate the community about The American Legion and your Post. Grassroots Fundraising Myths Methods Management

Grassroots Fundraising MYTHS Fundraising is begging Worthy Cause = Big Bucks Corporations/Foundations contribute most of the $$ Economy Up = Increased Giving Three Important Things to Know People give when asked, and rarely give when they are not. Donors are not ATMs. You can’t raise all the money your Post needs by yourself.

Why do people make donations? QUESTION Why do people make donations?

#1 – Belief in Organization ANSWER Because they are asked Belief in an organization’s goals Intense interest in a specific program Family tradition Leadership role Improve the quality of community life Recognition Tax deduction Good business #1 – Belief in Organization

Constituency Circle Major donors, Board Members & Management Members, General Donors, Employees Former members Mutual interest / concern Universe (geographic reach & impact)

Methods Face-to-face Personal phone call Personal letters Door-to-door / phone-a- thons Direct mail Special events

Plan, Commit & Communicate 3 primary reasons for fundraisers Planning & commitment Communication What you don’t know can hurt you Training Sponsorships

Final Points to Consider Transparency Sell the benefits Personal contact Golden Rule Do not fear rejection Set Goals Positive public opinion

Community Fundraising “You represent an organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for our nation’s veterans and young people. Inviting a person or a family to support these purposes financially gives them and future generations the opportunity to assist.”