by Dan Reynolds, Vice President

Fund raising today is a sophisticated and comprehensive endeavor that incorporates techniques carefully tested and refined over time. Techniques alone, however, cannot guarantee successful fund raising results; a positive climate for fund raising also must exist.

Much has been learned through the years about what is necessary to conduct a successful fund raising program. Essentially, in order for a nonprofit group to experience the maximum impact from a fund raising campaign, it is important that:

• there is respect on the part of potential financial contributors for the purpose and mission of the organization, and confidence in those who set and administer its policies and services;
• there be a belief that there are genuine needs to be met with some degree of urgency, and that the community will be improved by meeting those needs;
• there is a definite willingness by people not only to provide the necessary gifts and financial resources, but also to be a part of the required campaign organization and to work with enthusiasm to achieve success;
• there is potential to recruit a group of key volunteers, staff and other pivotal friends who are able and willing to assume principal giving and leadership roles. This action sets the standard for participation by others who will be asked to participate in the effort;
• there is a clear indication that there is adequate financial potential in the community to provide the needed level of support.

The degree to which these various factors are present can significantly affect the ultimate success of any fund raising effort. Holmes, Radford & Avalon creates planning and feasibility studies that evaluate to what degree each of these elements exists, and to determine the appropriate course of action to produce the greatest fund raising results.