What do donors expect from the
organizations to whom they donate? Research has
shown that donors are more aware than ever before
of the importance of scrutinizing the charities
to which they are considering contributing. What
are some of the things they look for, and expect?
- Send donor acknowledgment letters within 24
hours of receipt of the gift.
- Be sure you send your donors proper acknowledgement
for IRS purposes, including the fact that they
relieved no benefit in exchange for their donation,
or the amount of the benefit they did receive
(for example: fair market value of a dinner
or golf tournament, advertising given to sponsors,
etc.)
- Be certain your 990 form is accurate and provides
examples of how donors’ money is being
used to directly benefit recipients of your
services.
- Publish donors’ gifts in your annual
report, unless they request anonymity.
- Always have a check box for the option to
remain anonymous, and ask donors to print exactly
how they do wish to be recognized if they are
not making an anonymous gift.
- Use your website to provide donors with examples
of how their gifts are being used.
- Be sure to use restricted gifts in the way
the donor request.
- Have a prudent investment policy for your
funds.
- Assure that knowledgeable people serve on
your board budget and finance, and have an audit
committee to assure proper audits are done on
a timely basis.
- Commit to and publish the Donor
Bill of Rights.
If you need help with your donor acknowledgement, recognition,
and stewardship program, contact CAPITAL
VENTURE
SM to help you establish policies
and procedures for your development program.
Please
contact CAPITAL
VENTURE
sm
for your Capital Campaign needs!
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