When your nonprofit/charity begin a new campaign, before board members make their pledges, review your gift range and budget together. This way, your leaders have time to consider how they want to donate. (Your legal counsel will not be expected to give.)
At a designated “board giving” moment, transparency is healthy and inspiring. Ask any willing board members to announce their gifts to the group. Each member turns in their pledge or check to the president and secretary, who tally and announce the total.
Now you own the most compelling donor invitation, “Join me in giving.” Before soliciting others, add the board donation totals (without names) to your Gift Sought document.
While your organization is young, the board leads your annual campaign. At some point you may decide you’re ready to hire a development director to work with the board, but not to replace it.
I’ve heard board members say, “We need to find some wealthy people to join our board!” That wealthy individual may have a passion for your cause. You, however, love the mission and may even give sacrificially. As you serve and give, you may inadvertently increase your professional network and good reputation.
You are likely to become, unintentionally, that wealthy person your board hopes to find.
As always, I am hoping for your every success!