In the midst of this global crisis, it is crucial to continue to keep the goals of your campaign in sight and your commitment to the future of your organization and the benefits your campaign will provide for your stakeholders. The restart may begin quietly, but once you are able to gain some momentum and listen to your donors, you will set yourself up for success.
Your first step is to reengage your volunteer team. With all we have been facing over the months of shutdown, it is important to check in, regroup, and build the confidence of your campaign champions, as they are the ones you rely on to share the story of your organization and engage donors. You will need to:
- Listen. Bring your team of volunteers together – in person, in a safe space that provides for physical distancing or online. Take the time for everyone to share their stories, their experiences and their concerns.
- Tell your story. Share with them how the pandemic has affected your organization. How have you adjusted your service delivery to online or upgraded health measures for in-person service?
- Share ‘Why now’? Why do you feel it is time to hit the ‘play’ button and resume the campaign?
- Revisit the goals and priorities of the campaign – are they still relevant? Do the plans need to be reconfigured in light of the pandemic (do you need more space?). Emphasize any successes achieved prior to the pause.
- Review your materials and ensure they are still relevant and compelling – has the pandemic influenced your plan? Your message?
- Make a decision as a group. With the strength of a united vision, you are heading for success.
Be prepared – everyone may not be at the same level of comfort for a restart. Listen to their concerns, involve them in the decision to restart and how to safely begin.
Once you have decided to move forward, schedule a solicitor training session. While the goals of the campaign may not have changed, the world has. We have all been immersed in the pandemic and how it has affected our lives for the short and long term. Your team will benefit from a session to refresh their approach and a reminder of best practices during this unusual time.
This is also a good time to have conversations with key members of your community, particularly lead donors – to find out how they are feeling about the organization and the timing. Their feedback can help to build your message for a relaunch.
For more information about how to restart your campaign, and how fundraising consultants can help you achieve your goals, contact The Dennis Group Inc.