Organizations rely heavily on fundraising to help keep programs running, for research to continue on a particular disease, and services to help those in need. The current state of our economy has made that task all the more difficult. The unemployment rate is at an all time high and people are cutting back on the extras, which includes donations. So how is it that Bob Silipigni raised more then $23,000 for Relay for Life this year, toping last years amount of $19,253?
When I came across this article on the Success Stories page on the Relay for Life website, I was moved by the fact that Bob Silipigni really dedicated his whole heart to raising money for the fight against cancer. His mother had lived thru the loss of a brother and father, both taken by cancer. Nine years ago, Bob decided to take action and personally make it his mission to raise more money each year to help cancer research.
Bob committed to spending three to five hours a day, seven days a week for three and a half months to raising contributions for the Douglas County Relay for Life. In the end, 1,410 people made a donation that added up to the $23,000! Impressive when you realize that there was no corporate sponsor, but individuals and families that made up the donor list. So besides the long hours, how did Bob accomplish this feat?
The answer lies in the following statement. Jeanne Klein, one of Bob’s yearly donors, was quoted in the article saying “He gets to know you on a personal level, and he remembers who you are and he remembers what you are interested in.”
Bob has taken the time to build relationships with people in his community, therefore making it easier each year to ask for the contribution. People know that he cares about them as a person and does not see them as a dollar sign. Bob also has researched where their donations are going and what services have been provided thanks to their contribution. He is knowledgeable about the Relay for Life cause and dedicated to making a lasting impact, not only on cancer research but the lives he touches every day.
An important lesson for us all to take away from this story is that when it comes to fundraising, knowing your organizations cause, goals, and where donations are allocated is crucial. More importantly, by taking the time to build solid relationships with your donor base now, you will assure yourself of continuing contributions in the future!
Jenny Winchell is Co-Founder and CEO for Jensea Solutions, a strategic fundraising firm. She can be reached at Solutions@JenSeaLLC.com and for more information visit www.JenSeaSolutions.com
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