A list, compiled through donor interviews, is below. These are the common answers for what a donor wants in order to feel good about a donation they make.

• good community standing for the non-profit they donate to
• a non-profit that works with others to pool resources
• respected fundraising tools
• fiscal responsibility of how they spend the gifts they get
• not being asked again and again for gifts to fund the same purpose
• donation they make reflect positively on themselves
• a feel-good system in place for everyone involved
• a well-outlined strategic plan for the future of how the money they give now impacts the future
• a realistic fundraising plan with resources already in place
• realistic and clear goals determined by the non-profit
• financial report to share
• legitimate mission, vision and purpose defined
• adequate service area in the community
• impact metrics for when their donation is made
• a way to connect the donor to the mission
• updates on progress as well as outcomes of their gift
• ways to create a personal connection for the donor
• respect for the donor (thank you’s and acknowledgements done promptly)
• a trustworthy cause to give to, meaning the non-profit accepts responsibility, and stands by their decisions
• attention to solicitation requests made – the number sent, the messaging, and the follow through afterwards
• Transparency of the organization and all systems (they do not want to be asked by more than one person for the same thing)
• a way for the donor to make a difference with whatever they give
• heart-warming stories
• clear explanation of need so there’s no guessing
• excellent customer service
• a way to solicit donors for advice
• a way for donors to be heroes
• honesty
• online systems – updated and accurate
• good communications
• photos of how dollars are impacting society – the results
• an organized way to volunteer their time

A person who feels good about their donation opens the door for others to give because they share their great experience. It also gives them the idea to give again, and to potentially give more.

SOAR is a relationship program, an acronym, which covers all the bases for helping non-profits coordinate the above list. It’s a way to grow market share and increase dollars.

S – share your message

O – offer opportunities for involvement

A – accept the way people want to participate

R – respect and appreciate others

People who SOAR spread their networking arms, expand their market, and increase the dollars they raise. They SOAR – all of the time with practices they implement. To learn more – iwantto@soarwithnetworkfundraising.com