The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many charities and other nonprofit organizations to rethink how they approach business. With the world economy slowing down, it’s been challenging for nonprofits to stimulate donors or run successful campaigns.
Additionally, governments have openly cut programs for charities as they allocate funds to other projects and programs. As the leader of a nonprofit, you may be short on fundraising ideas during Covid and are probably wondering what to do next. Here are some tips that may help your nonprofit survive and even thrive during these uncertain times:
1. Stay Strong
The leader of a nonprofit usually is the primary catalyst for the organization. As the leader, you must keep your team motivated and lead from the front. If you’re going to feel demoralized, then your team will follow your lead.
2. Use Technology
Take advantage of technology to improve workflow and stay organized. For example, Sumac’s Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) Software can collate all your complex data on a simple and intuitive platform that boosts productivity.
At a time when more nonprofits are adopting remote working measures, the CRM is quite helpful because it’s on the cloud and accessible from anywhere. Thankfully, it uses the best security technology to protect everyone associated with your nonprofit.
Of course, their CRM is free for nonprofits that qualify and can be customized to include some handy modules. They also offer a fundraising thermometer that works best for short and effective campaigns. The thermometer can be used on your website, live streams, or at events to motivate donors, volunteers, staff, and other team members. It’s an excellent tool to boost your campaign after it’s lost a little steam.
3. Motivate Your Team
The pandemic is stressful as it is, and remote working in isolation can make life even more challenging. That’s why you must try team-building exercises to give your team purpose. Let leaders within your organizations take charge during weekly meetings. Open the channels of communication and allow everyone to voice their concerns.
Set achievable weekly objectives to keep everyone focused, especially if tasks have been minimized due to the pandemic.
Additionally, you can also try game nights to improve the mood. Offer prizes such as gift cards and coupons to staff and volunteers to encourage them.
4. Think outside the Box
Just because there’s a pandemic doesn’t mean your nonprofit can’t run events. Try a virtual walk to raise money while staying safe from COVID-19. You can send out gift bags to anyone who completes the virtual walk. Use free social media marketing tools to reach out to potential participants and raise the profile of your nonprofit’s virtual walk.
You can also partner with motivated volunteers that want to run events on your behalf to raise funds for your nonprofit. Talk to them before the event to ensure that they respect your organization’s brand and offer as much support as you can.
The COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t made life easy for nonprofit organizations. It’s up to you to find new and fresh ways to make the best of a new situation.