Relational Philanthropy
Relational Philanthropy
A few years ago, Nonprofit Quarterly published an article, Patient Philanthropy: How a Small Foundation Got Big Results. The article features the Eva Gunther Foundation and how their commitment to relationship-based philanthropy made all the difference. Believing that philanthropy could be more effective when the key elements of long-term commitment, listening, and connection were incorporated, they approached grant-making in a new way. When they did, they found that by practicing their values, being an active participant, and engaged in long-term relationships they could create a greater impact and generate lasting change.
I hope from your experiences of valuing donors as long-term relationships you are realizing the same outcomes. When you focus on building relationships with donors, you can create synergy and strength to realize a cause that is greater than any single individual.
Within the article there is a Relational Philanthropy Checklist I want to share with you today. While their focus is on relationships with their grantees, the same applies for your donor relationships.
Relational Philanthropy Checklist
Build community by entering into community. Be humble. Immerse yourself in the work of your recipients (or the interests of your donors). That’s where the action is.
Listen to what grantees (donors) tell you. Avoid the temptation to be the smartest person in the room.
Third, Emote! Feel something! You don’t make better decisions by being detached. Exercise empathy.
And with these enabled eyes and ears and brain and heart, Respond. Engage with your grantees (donors) in their terms, not yours. They know more than you do. Take what you know and fit it to them; don’t make them fit you.
And finally, Remain. For agencies to do good work they need reliable partners (donors).
In the midst of a very busy solicitation season, don't forget the importance of building long-term relationships with your donors. Giving is a way for donors to increase intimacy in their relationship with your organization. Each time a donor gives, their relationships with the cause is deepened. Keep your focus on building relationships and discover how they are a catalyst for growth and organizational renewal that benefits the donor, the organization, and those it serves.
