Non-Profit Etiquette
There is a lot of competition out there for the money you give personally, to charity. Ask anyone and they will tell you that they are inundated for money requests from non profit organizations, political campaigns and academic institutions. And if you are in business the requests may be even greater.

The charity that people choose to support is often based on their own personal experience with, or their loyalty to, an organization. Political views, alma maters, family and personal health issues and many other things play into the decision as to what group one supports.

All of those requests can make one dizzy and yes, sometimes annoyed, with the constant barrage for money or items. So, in order for your organization to be perceived as worthy and grateful for the donations that you receive consider a little “non profit” etiquette as you ask for support.

Don’t expect everyone to offer services and gift items for nothing or monetary support just because you are a “non-profit” organization…non-profit doesn’t mean you get everything for free. Non-profit employees don’t expect to work for nothing and you shouldn’t expect others to either. Get over any sense of entitlement.

When asking for a favor or requesting services from someone consider getting their fees under written by some of your donors. Most people will offer a discount to non profit organizations, but for small businesses to do everything for free is a dangerous precedent for them to set and they can’t afford it.
Retailers lose money after a certain point when discounting merchandise. So to expect everything at cost is unrealistic too.

Support the businesses that support you. If you and your staff are constantly asking and never giving back you will quickly become someone to avoid. This also includes the people who sit on your board and constantly ask for money, favors or merchandise and never support the local businesses who generously give.

Make sure that every donation, regardless of whether it is of monetary value or just someone’s time is acknowledged. To have people donate money, items and/or time and not express thanks is a huge faux pas.

Train your staff in professional courtesy skills. Especially, if they are doing any kind of entertaining while fund raising. Staff members should be able to meet and greet the public with aplomb, network effectively and manage a formal dining situation with poise and confidence.

Know your community. If you are the new person who has been hired from out of town, you should be doing your homework on the who’s who in the community. And you should know what else is going on in the new city you now call home.

Get your requests in early. Most companies plan their budgets for charity at certain times of the year. It may be important for you to time your requests from the large corporations, especially if the request is for a large sum.

Value your volunteers. The people who volunteer their time for your organization should be treated with the same respect as your paid employees. Actually, maybe more. Most non-profits couldn’t function without their volunteers.

So, ask graciously, give back and be grateful to those who make your organization a success. It will come back to you in kind.