| As Fundraisers, our objective is to secure gifts and | | | | Another reminder will probably bring most if not all of |
| pledges to support the work of our organization. | | | | the payments in. |
| When a donor makes a pledge then doesn't pay, it | | | | In the letter, I'd tell them that if their circumstances |
| can be a sticky situation. Here's a question I got | | | | have changed and they need to change their pledge, |
| recently about handling unpaid pledges. | | | | to simply call and let you know. With the economy |
| "We had a great event last March where about 60 | | | | the way it is, it's possible that someone's ability to |
| people agreed to 1 - 3 year pledges. The first | | | | pay a pledge right now may be impacted. Be patient |
| invoices were sent a few months ago and there are | | | | and work with folks, and even let them off the hook |
| 3 or 4 folks who have still not sent in a payment. | | | | if need be. You'll lose a pledge but gain a long-term |
| How do we handle this?" Vic | | | | friend to the organization by treating them with the |
| I'm assuming you thanked the donors appropriately | | | | utmost respect. |
| after the event and let them know when their first | | | | If you still have unpaid pledges after you send the |
| payment was due and how much it is. It's a good | | | | reminder letter, it's time to pick up the phone and call. |
| idea to remind donors of these details of their pledge | | | | If you can't reach the donor, then you may have to |
| because they likely don't remember what they | | | | simply write that pledge off as uncollectable. It's |
| committed to. | | | | unfortunate, but it does happen from time to time. |
| It's time now to send them another invoice with a | | | | Be kind and understanding when collecting on unpaid |
| letter reminding them of the event and the pledge | | | | pledges and you'll likely get the result you are looking |
| they made. Often, people get busy and they forget. | | | | for - pledge payments! |