Campaign Components

Components of a Development Plan

Diversifying your investment portfolio has long been sondiered strong advice regarding financial planning. Likewise, successful nonprofits have a balanced approach with their development or campaign plan.

The foundation for your development work begins with a calendar. The focus should include steps to build relationships, and to communicate and initiate fund-raising activities to further your mission. Your calendar will outline goals, deadlines and the people responsible for each objective. Perform a quarterly review to monitor what was accomplished and to make any necessary adjustments. Your plan may include:

Donor relations  Host a monthly CEO breakfast. Invite alumni to homecoming, plays or all-school Masses and schedule quarterly tours of the facility.

Communications  Send an annual "benefits" brochure that highlights your successes. Create an "insider" newsletter designated to significant donors that gives them a sneak peek of your organization and send a monthly e-mail sharing current events.

Major gift/annual appeal  Schedule and segment your audiences into personal visits, phoning nights and direct mail appeals.

Planned giving  Reserve a column in your newsletter to promote planned gifts. Host an annual seminar and send an annual brochure. Include response vehicles for those interested in learning more about planned giving opportunities.

Corporate appeal/grant writing  Design a calendar that allows for research, personal visits and submission of proposals. Host an annual event with trustees "to put a face on" your organization.

Special events  Host annual "friend raising" events such as a summer picnic and an annual fund-raiser such as a dinner auction.

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