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(Thread) A few thoughts on the @rogareftt paper on donor centricity and community centricity which can be found here. …https://df618d67-1d77-4718-ac14-01d78db8f9d0.filesusr.com/ugd/8bc141_ad7b39a879394fdfac48d3a106f0de22.pdf 1/14
I’ve not previously read Vu Le’s ( @NonprofitAF) work in detail on community centric fundraising and I’ve had to catch up on that. And he’s such a prolific writer, that there’s tonnes more I need to dig into. 2/14
To set the scene, I’ve always seen myself as a fundraiser who is focused on improving society by engaging people with causes that matter. I do this through understanding and answering donor needs. 3/14
If there is one phrase that is important in that respect is that “people want to be a valued member of a valued group”. That’s my mantra.
As I read Vu’s work, there is very little I disagree with. The list that I agree with goes on and on - the tragedy of the commons,... 4/14
As I read Vu’s work, there is very little I disagree with. The list that I agree with goes on and on - the tragedy of the commons,... 4/14
...how non-major donors (normal people) are neglected whilst the wealthy are comforted and injustice perpetuated, the importance of understanding the fundraising ecosystem, sharing knowledge and resources, partnership, etc. 5/14
To me, it’s not an either / or situation (which the Rogare paper does reference in the conclusion) but I’m not sure that there is any sort of battle here between two approaches. It’s not community or donor focus – it's about what will bring about positive change. 6/14
I’ve increasingly written about the fact that ‘YOU’ works best within a ‘WE’ framework. The individual (normal people) donors that I speak to and communicate with know they can’t change society on their own. 7/14
That’s why they want to be part of a group that will be more effective in fighting the battles they care about than a single person could be. That is why charities / non-profits were set up – as vehicles for community solidarity / action. 8/14
But within that framework, I also know that many individuals want to be a valued member of the groups they join - Many want to know that they are seen to be part of the solution. Many want recognition that they are on the side of good. 9/14
That’s why I advocate treating all supporters with respect and appreciation - that includes rapid thanking and reporting when appropriate. But I also say that a thank you card bought from a corner shop will be more welcomed than a welcome pack... 10/14
...that many small charities can’t afford to produce. It’s about being real - not being ‘professional’. And as is highlighted, community centred fundraising is not about banning YOU, it’s about putting it in context. 11/14
So, I’m grateful for the paper for bringing Vu’s work to my attention as it is a great learning resource, but I'm not sure I see a division that the paper highlights. The community centred definition will help... 12/14
..us challenge injustice and continue to change society. It also brings into focus what we do as one fundraiser working for one charity can impact across the sector and into wider society - that is a really important point 13/14
I'll also remember that to bring about change we must value the actions of clients, staff, volunteers and donors as individuals and as part of a community because that is what we know brings about change . 14/14
