Hi John,
I remember a pretty cool evening about three years ago. I was on the road, far away in a hotel somewhere in the US, scheduled to present a board workshop the next day.
There I was, sitting in my hotel room, plinking away at my computer, feeling tired and dreary. Then suddenly a bright note popped up in my email stream.
Oh! Guess who just sent me an email?!
It was a celebrity: Coach Roy Williams, of Tar Heel basketball. Himself.
Whoa. Why would Coach Roy be writing me, a loyal UNC alum with a spotty history of sports fandom?
Good old Coach Roy was gently reminding me about UNC’s big giving day that was happening the next day. He invited me to give early and join in with thousands of Carolina alums to support our University.
What did I do? I didn’t think twice about clicking that link and making my gift. Boom, it was done.
And I was a happy camper. I had joined the Tar Heel chorus. I felt part of something bigger than myself and I knew that I had helped. It was a great feeling!
Today - we’re discussing why YOUR organization needs to participate in a Giving Day or #GivingTuesday.
I’m sharing why I like the Giving Day concept so much and most importantly - the 5 ways you can take advantage of this pivotal moment:
- How to ride the wave of national and international giving that’s happening right now
- Why adding a note of “gamification” to your fundraising is a good idea
- Where to find social media ambassadors to help you
- A role for board members in your Giving Day
Check out my post here:
There are plenty of major gift pundits out there who think Giving Days are a distraction and a dead end, but I take issue.
On the contrary, they are terrific opportunities to raise unrestricted funds, energize your supporters, engage your board members, promote your cause – and they are fun too.
Kathryn Gamble and I shared our ideas on Giving Days on our Facebook Live broadcast Wednesday. You can see the video here. Plan to join us every Wednesday at noon, eastern, where we discuss the issues of the day with the community - and take your questions!
I know it’s been a long few weeks, and I hope you are hanging in there. Do take care of yourself and your loved ones.
Please know that we are here if you need help and support - and try to look for the bright side of good things to come.
Warmly,
