Fundraising is often seen as the exclusive domain of nonprofit staff, but board members can and should play a role in this vital aspect of an organization's sustainability. As a longtime fundraising professional, I want to share underleveraged yet impactful ways that board members can support fundraising, none of which are direct asks.

1. Leverage Personal Networks

Why It Matters

Board members often have extensive personal and professional networks. And they hold an affinity for the mission - they see sides of it that the general public does not. Evangelizing the mission to your network can help identify potential donors, volunteers and advocates who are not on the organization's radar. This is of huge value! Do not underestimate the potency of word-of-mouth marketing.

How to Do It

• Host Small Gatherings: Organize informal or formal gatherings at your home or a local venue. Invite friends, colleagues, and community leaders to learn about the nonprofit's mission. This could be centered on passing out copies of the annual report and inviting folks to ask follow-up questions or share about the program areas that excited them the most.

• Facilitate Introductions: When you meet someone who shows interest in your nonprofit's cause, facilitate a casual introduction with a key staff member, such as the development officer.

Sample email introduction:

Hi [Prospective Donor],

I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the summer!

I would like to introduce you to [Nonprofit Development Officer] at Do Good. Do Good is doing impressive work by focusing on a unique aspect of food assistance: donating high-quality food to local food pantries. Given the usual scarcity of protein sources in these settings, their contributions are truly vital.

[Nonprofit Development Officer], Prospective Donor is the CEO of Social Good Company, a network of funders dedicated to strengthening and empowering rural communities. I believe there is significant potential for mutual benefit in connecting, even if it's just to amplify each other's missions through your respective networks.

Thank you both, and I will leave it to you to explore how to best get to know one another.

2. Be a Visible Advocate

Why It Matters

Advocacy goes beyond attending board meetings and making donations. Board members can amplify the nonprofit’s message and mission in their daily lives. Here are a few ways this could look.

How to Do It

• Engage on Social Media: Share the nonprofit's posts, write personal content about why you support the organization, and engage with others who show interest.

• Public Speaking: Use opportunities to speak at community events and business as ways to amplify board service. List out “Board Member, Nonprofit Name” in your bio information in the intro slide. You can also include a note to “Ask me about ‘Nonprofit Name’ after the presentation.”

3. Participate in Stewardship

Why It Matters

Maintaining strong relationships with existing donors is crucial for retention. Board members can play a significant role in stewardship by showing appreciation and keeping donors engaged.

How to Do It

• Personal Thank You Notes: Simply ask the development team if they would like assistance in the thanking process. Most will and this small gesture can make a big impact and is especially fun when notecards are passed out at the beginning of board meetings. It sets a good tone for later board conversation!

• Donor Meetings: Attend donor meetings as a passionate volunteer. Express gratitude on behalf of the board and share personal stories, if time allows, about why you support the nonprofit. My go-to phrase for board members in these meetings is simple:

“On behalf of the board, I want to express our gratitude for your investment in the mission. We believe in the work and are so glad to have you as a partner in this.” <stop here and listen>

4. Ensure 100% Board Giving

Why It Matters

Many grant applications require detailed information about the board's financial contributions. Demonstrating 100% board giving can significantly enhance the nonprofit’s credibility and appeal to funders.

How to Do It

• Set an Example: Make a personal financial contribution and encourage fellow board members to do the same. This helps nonprofits strongly answer the following foundation application question:
  

• Highlight Impact: Share stories of how board contributions have directly impacted the nonprofit’s work. This is a great example of a board peer-to-peer campaign at Healthcare of the Homeless in Houston, TX:

Conclusion

Board members have the power to transform the fundraising landscape for their nonprofits. By leveraging networks, being active advocates, participating in stewardship, contributing to strategic planning, and ensuring 100% board giving, board members can provide invaluable support. 

None of these are direct asks. There are tons of creative ways to deepen board members' engagement and commitment.