Open your donor database and look at any record. Behind that row of fields is a person who looked at their bank account, thought of your mission, and chose you.
Most fundraising fails right here. We talk about prospects, segments, pipelines, LYBUNTs. The language betrays the belief: that donors are resources to be managed rather than people to be loved.
Here is the entire donor-centred revolution in one sentence: treat your donors the way you would treat a friend who gave you a gift.
Pick up the phone and thank them. Listen to them. Send them a hand-written note. Wish them well. Pray for them.
This mental shift will change your whole relationship with fundraising. It will make your donors feel seen and valued. As they should be.
And, yes, it will also help you raise a lot more money.
