Working with Fundraising Volunteers Pamela Clapp Larmee, CFRE Dental Philanthropy Network November 6, 2015

Fundraising Cycle % of Time Spent

Volunteer Roles: Many Hats to Wear Donor Ambassador Detective Host Solicitor

Donor Fundraising volunteers must serve as Donors: Setting an example by making their own gift first. Give a gift that is a “personally significant” before becoming involved in fundraising activities. Utilize a Volunteer/Board campaign as an effective tool to set expectations and timing.

Ambassador Fundraising volunteers can serve as Ambassadors: Personally sharing the good news about your program. Set a personal goal to talk about your program2-3 times per week: at the office, at social events, or at your child’s sporting event. Personalize invitations and thank you/stewardship letters with hand written notes. Make thank you calls to donors.

Detective Fundraising volunteers can serve as Detectives: Interacting with and assessing prospects. Participate in prospect review. Review donor lists from other organizations in the same sector/space. Assess spouse/partner interests.

Host Fundraising volunteers can serve as Hosts: Actively engaging others with your program. Reinforce invitations issued by others. Invite personal contacts to organizational events/tours/engagement opportunities. Host an event on- or off-site and include personal contacts.

Solicitor Fundraising volunteers can serve as Solicitors: Inviting prospects to make an investment. Reinforce an ask already made. Speak at an event and make the “pitch”. Partner with another volunteer or staff member to solicit a gift. Engage solicitation conversations with personal contacts.

Volunteer Messages with Impact Personalize your dental program’s activities: Authentic Demonstrative Short Being a volunteer has given me these compelling insights… My volunteer/board service has become more than a nice-to-do because… Supporting this dental program is critical because…

The “Back Pocket” Ask All fundraising volunteers need some comfortable language to use when casual conversations become unexpected solicitations. General information about priorities and events. Simple, direct, heartfelt language. An understanding of how a handoff to staff or other volunteer happens.

Final Thoughts for Fundraising Volunteers Be authentic. Be deliberate. Be enthusiastic.

Thank you. Pamela Clapp Larmee, CFRE Principal Strategic Philanthropy Services 4025 N. Woodstock Street Arlington, VA