Friday, June 12, 2009

My Board is Afraid of the Economy

Frequently development officers say to me, "My board wants to wait until the economy improves before starting a feasibility study or a campaign." I respond "When do they think that's going to happen? Tomorrow? Next month? 2010?"

How long will your organization sit idly by waiting for the magic bullet to appear? Meanwhile, other organizations are cultivating donors, getting their message out, and raising much-needed support.

Headline: "Paralysis Causes Backslide!" The organizations that were successful after 9/11 were those who strongly kept their donors engaged, trimmed excess expenses, and invested in the budget items needed to move forward at a crucial time. Relevant mission, dynamic vision, passionate board, and creative staff = SUCCESS. Don't wait for the economy to "improve"...You'll be waving to the train as it passes you by!