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BlogIncorporating DEIB in your Fundraising Program

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Group representing Incorporating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) into your fundraising program.
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Incorporating DEIB in your Fundraising Program

Group representing Incorporating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) into your fundraising program. Incorporating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) into your fundraising program does not happen overnight. It needs thoughtful strategy and planning. However, before DEIB initiatives are integrated into a fundraising program, the organization must be committed to DEIB efforts.

Nonprofits may serve individuals from a variety of diverse populations. Organizations’ staff, volunteers and board members should reflect and align with the demographics being served. Having diverse organizational leadership allows the organization to better understand and address the needs of its clients. As organizations are better able to serve and represent their constituents, they can more easily share their impact and client successes to engage donors in their mission.

According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, 14% of millionaires are from diverse populations, a number that is expected to grow. Funders are also taking notice and becoming more conscious of the community projects and initiatives they financially support. Corporations and foundations are incorporating their own DEIB metrics in their workplaces, and when considering their philanthropic commitments want to support organizations that align with their priorities and interests.

Here are a few tips for incorporating DEIB into your fundraising program:

  • Create a budget specific for DEIB activities. Although the organization’s budget may include DEIB activities, it may not include dollars to advance a development office effort. Consider diversifying appeals, developing progressive marketing materials or stewarding donors from various backgrounds while developing a budget.
  • Tailor your storytelling. Can your donors connect with your constituents? Will a written story in a newsletter or video testimonial be the best delivery for your audience?
  • Create opportunities for all to engage with your organization. Accessibility to participate in an event may not be possible for those with disabilities. Daytime volunteer opportunities may not be an option for those who work or care for children or aging parents during the day. Online programs may be hard to access for people without reliable internet service.

At AMPERAGE Marketing & Fundraising we believe in doing work that positively impacts people’s lives in significant ways. If you are looking for strategies to incorporate DEIB into your organization or fundraising program, contact an AMPERAGE Fundraising consultant at 319-268-9151 or email Jennifer Rubel at jrubel@amperagefundraising.com.

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Melissa provides fundraising counsel for AMPERAGE’s nonprofit clients, leading feasibility studies and providing solutions that drive successful fundraising campaign results. A Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), she uses her experience and extensive skill set to continually advance her fundraising practices and develop campaign-specific strategies, materials and training to help clients reach their campaign goals and advance their mission. Melissa has vast experience working in the nonprofit sector, having served in development and leadership roles with Sisters of Mercy and the Alzheimer’s Association. In addition, she has served as a volunteer and board member with local nonprofits, such as the Catherine McAuley Center. Faith-based organizations and causes are of particular interest to Melissa. Melissa moves the needle by always looking for new opportunities and ways to improve professionally. She is currently president of the Eastern Iowa Planned Giving Council and a past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals-Eastern Iowa Chapter. Melissa holds a Master of Strategic Leadership degree from Mount Mercy University. This busy professional, wife and mother enjoys sports and live music in her free time. A fan of Cubs baseball and Iowa Hawkeye football, Melissa and family enjoy football tailgating, where she’s known for her breakfast burritos. She enjoys the local band scene but says a Foo Fighters concert is her all-time favorite.