| Asking for money can be a scary thing. So many | | | | Are you nervous? Sweating? How does it feel after |
| people are afraid to ask their friends for money and | | | | you ask for the gift? Are you relieved that it's over? |
| this seems to be a particular problem for folks who | | | | Was it easier or harder than you thought? |
| sit on nonprofit Boards and have the responsibility for | | | | Afterward, write a short description of your |
| fundraising for their organizations. | | | | experience, positive or negative. (There's great |
| Just like conquering fear of heights or fear of most | | | | power in writing this experience down!) |
| anything, your fear of fundraising can be overcome. | | | | Hopefully, it was an exhilarating experience for you! |
| It takes a few simple steps, a positive attitude, a | | | | Once you get your fear under control, you may |
| little support, and a good dose of courage. | | | | actually find it fun to talk with people about the |
| Focus on the reason why you care about the | | | | organization you love. |
| organization. Keep that in your mind as you go | | | | Whether the experience was positive or negative, |
| through this exercise and it will make things a bit | | | | think for a moment if this is how you want |
| easier. | | | | fundraising to be for you. Is there a different way |
| When you're ready, take these baby steps toward | | | | you think it could or should be? Would you like it to |
| asking for a donation: | | | | be easy and light, with the words rolling off your |
| 1. Pick a friend that you can ask for a gift. Make sure | | | | tongue? Would you rather it be full of energy, with |
| it's someone you trust - this will help you feel safe. | | | | your donor prospect catching your enthusiasm like a |
| 2. Practice telling him/her about your organization. It's | | | | spreading wildfire? Would you like to have donors |
| okay if you stumble on your words. You're practicing | | | | thank you for giving them the opportunity to support |
| on a friend after all. | | | | your organization's work? (It can happen!) |
| 3. Then ask for a $50 donation. (This is a slightly | | | | Remember, when you focus on the baby steps that |
| larger amount than most people give and a good | | | | need to be done, and just DO one, you stop being |
| place for you to start.) | | | | afraid or overwhelmed by the big stuff or the things |
| Pay attention to how the experience goes for you. | | | | that might happen if you fail. |
| How does it feel while you are in the conversation? | | | | |