Prepare for Success

Now is the Time to Prepare for Success

Community organizations have been undergoing an incredibly difficult time over the past several months. The economic recession has brought an increased demand for services, while philanthropic investments are either static or shrinking.

And most economists say this situation will be with us for awhile, and may even get worse before it gets better.

And to top it all off, most organizations are forced to use a system of funding that is, at best, fundamentally flawed. Organizations are forced to compete for funding from those whose own self-interest should dictate they advocate collaboration and partnerships.

Let’s take advantage of the current economic situation to complete re-invent fundraising and philanthropy. And those who start soonest, grow strongest.

Value Relationships

It has long been conventional wisdom that fundraising is based upon personal relationships. As a Board Member or supporter of Organization X, I go to see my friend and ask for his support for the organization. And we build our donor base upon those types of relationships and support.

But when my friend goes on the Board of Organization Y, guess who he’s coming to see? And so we go round and round with the check-swapping philanthropy. And it becomes evident that personal relationship fundraising is self-limiting, and reaches the point of diminishing return very quickly.

But when there is a value relationship between the donor and the organization’s services, we can move beyond the check-swapping philanthropy cycle into the realm of community investments. If I have a vested interest in the organization’s success, either personally or professionally, I am more apt to view any support I provide as an investment. And I continue to make an investment in the organization when I see that there is a return on that investment, in the form of positive outcomes that mean something to me.

When we reach the level of investment support rather than gift support, we can become a more sustainable, stronger organization.

What value does your organization demonstrate? Can you show the Return on Investment?

Th(INC), LLC --- The Innovation Company, can help you in securing investment support. We also work with you in helping forge the strategic collaborations and partnerships you will need to succeed for the future.

Call us at 904-553-2354. We offer a unique, cost-effective service that not only saves you money, but will help you earn the investment support you need.

Brian Smith
President and CEO
Th(INC), LLC
The Innovation Company
6999-02 Merrill Road
Suite 317
Jacksonville, Florida 32277