Chapter 20: Engaging the Board for Fundraising
Engaging the board in fundraising is an essential element of a nonprofit organization’s success and sustainability. By laying out specific steps in recruiting and retaining outstanding board members, the stage is set to effectively request generous gifts from board members. Probing questions and tools are included to help assess a board’s level of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Ideas for bringing board members into fundraising activities—from identification of potential donors to stewarding existing contributors—are provided. A case study is included in the chapter that shows how transparent accountability, self-governing approaches, and annual performance assessments can enhance board member commitment and giving. The case study also provides support for the premise that strategic board recruitment and retention will yield an award-winning philanthropic board.
M. Gasby Brown
M. Gasby Brown has an unparalleled passion for the nonprofit industry. Her work and impact are testaments to her strong belief in the necessity of outstanding boards and good philanthropic practices. She is the CEO & Executive Consultant of The Gasby Group, Inc. (TGG), a full-service strategic fundraising and organizational effectiveness powerhouse with an impressive list of clients. She has shared her strategic thinking and expertise with board members nationally and internationally.
M. Gasby Brown discusses the chapter with Bill Stanczykiewicz, Achieving Excellence editor and Director of The Fund Raising School.