Nonprofit leaders and board members carry the responsibility for an organization’s financial oversight. In fact, financial support is an expectation of board membership, since foundations and prospective donors will often ask if a nonprofit has 100-percent board member funding participation: “If the leaders aren’t on board, why should others be?”

Even if an organization is supported well and all its expenses are covered by regular giving, it is important to keep raising money for long-term sustainability and unexpected, yet inevitable, events such as economic downturns. Here are some basic concepts for raising money on an ongoing basis:

Purposeful Philanthropy
Fundraising is not just a means for raising money. It is a tool to grow your donor base, strengthen relationships and improve programs and services. Through proper planning, ongoing fundraising provides more benefits than simply cash resources alone. The true goal should be changed lives. Through philanthropy, communities are made stronger and lives are enriched.

Mission Minded
While not all organizations will need to raise millions of dollars for buildings and equipment, every nonprofit has a need that is compelling and urgent. Put your vision and what you will do with funds in writing. Donors want to make a difference, and your organization can make this possible.

Pro-active Fundraising
As President John Kennedy was known to say, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” In keeping with this truism, don’t wait to raise money until you need the resource. The best time to raise funds is now. If you are waiting until you need the funds to begin growing philanthropy, you will only make the process more challenging.

Remember, your mission and vision will always raise more money than your organization’s needs. Put together a plan to grow philanthropy and implement your plan before you need the additional resources. Then, you will be well prepared when the inevitable comes.