To our dear old friend Status Quo,
You’ve been hanging around for quite some time now. With fundraising and donor relations, you’ve had us focusing on the chase for that next donor! For years we’ve been chasing the thrill of the new, the thrill of finding that next big donor. But we've realized something—it's actually time for us to part ways. We've discovered the allure of something more...consistent.
Yes, we’re talking about the 'boring' approach to fundraising. Listen SQ, it's not you, it's us. We’re finally ready for a relationship that's built to last.
The Allure of the New vs. The Comfort of the Steady
Remember the days when we'd celebrate those 1,000 new donors like we'd won the lottery? Fast forward five years, and we'd be lucky if 29 stuck around. (No, seriously. That is based on real data.)
That hit-and-run approach to donor acquisition? It's like swiping right in hopes of finding "The One," only to end up with a string of first dates that lead nowhere.
We were chatting with a wealth advisor recently—nothing serious, just flirting with the idea of a secure future—and they mentioned that investing in a get-rich-quick scheme might sound exciting, but it's the slow and steady contribution to a retirement account that truly pays off.
Boring? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely.
What if we applied the same principle to our donor base?
Imagine treating each monthly donor not as a fleeting crush but as marriage material. At first glance, monthly donors might not make your heart race with excitement. But these are the folks who stick by you, through thick and thin. They're the ones who truly believe in "for better or worse."
Working Smarter
So, we've decided to shift our focus. Those monthly donors? They're our rock.
They might not bring the drama or the adrenaline rush of a sexy acquisition strategy, but they offer something far more valuable: stability, reliability, and a commitment to our cause that's unwavering.
In this journey towards embracing the 'boring' in fundraising, it's crucial to highlight how prioritizing retention can lead to substantial benefits. By nurturing lasting relationships with donors, we pave the way for sustained support and loyalty.
Building upon this foundation of trust and commitment not only ensures stable funding but also sets the stage for long-term growth and impact. It's a strategic shift that positions us for a future where our efforts bear fruit consistently, thanks to the enduring bonds we cultivate.
As we part ways, SQ, we want you to know that we’re not looking back. We’re embracing the "boring" path forward of nurturing and celebrating our monthly donors. They might not be the flashiest dates at the party, but they're the ones who'll be there for us, year after year.
The Future is Bright (and Steady)
So, here's to our new beginning.
A future where we invest in relationships that last, where every monthly donor is valued, and where the slow and steady approach leads us to a sustainable future.
It's not the thrill of the chase that excites us anymore—it's the promise of a dependable, long-term partnership with our donors.
With newfound clarity and a heart full of gratitude, The DRG Team
PS: We'll still be friends. Your acquisition strategies will always be a part of our lives. We’re just choosing to prioritize retention. It's time to give some love to the steady, reliable donors who keep our fundraising party going.
