I hate the giving of the hand unless the whole man accompanies it. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
One of the benefits of the bad economy has been our need to look for meaning, value and happiness not based on income. Cash donations happen every day despite the pressure and pain that a lot of families feel. My sector is grateful and blessed to partner with so many kind and caring people.
Organizations need unrestricted cash, to pay staff and keep the lights on. It is very important to their long term health and sustainability, yet organizations like people are yearning for something more….. something other than money.
This country was built on the premise of neighbors helping neighbors.
Neighbors lent a hand when they became aware of neighbors they could help. Nobody expected pay. No one knew if they would be helped when they needed it. They took responsibility for one another. They gave so much more than money.
So yesterday I asked a few smart people the following question:
What can you ask people for right now to help move your mission forward OTHER than money?
My responses were rich and deep and just as critical for nonprofits as stocks or bonds.These responses invite the “whole man or woman” to participate, give and share. Today I want you to go out and ask for one of the following:
- Encouragement
- Training
- Time with top thinkers in your area of expertise
- Praise
- Organizational and Administrative support
- A critical ear
- Sharing of your story
- Advocacy within their circle of influence
- Pro Bono work
- Prayer
- LOVE
- Contracts drafted
- Copy written
- Data evaluated
- Introductions to other connectors
- Materials donated
Be ready. Do you know what you need other than money from your community? Figure that out now…today.
Have you have expanded your tribe and better positioned yourself through partnerships so that you are ready to strike when opportnities present themselves? If not, why not?
Have you crafted a clear strategy for utilizing all the gifts that are right in front of you? Stop leaving so much goodness on the table.
If you want to build core nonprofit management skills crucial to your organization’s success you can schedule some 1:1 time with me here or learn about other ways we can work together here. You can also get inspiration, ideas, resources tools and freebies by signing up for my newsletter