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You have a donor interested in giving more but with conditions. How do you navigate their specific requests?

When a generous donor offers more support with strings attached, consider these strategies to maintain a healthy partnership:

  • Assess the conditions: Determine if the requests align with your organization's mission and values.

  • Negotiate terms: Engage in open dialogue to find common ground or compromise where possible.

  • Document agreements: Ensure all conditions and expectations are clearly outlined in writing to avoid future misunderstandings.

How do you balance donor requests while staying true to your mission? Share your strategies.

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You have a donor interested in giving more but with conditions. How do you navigate their specific requests?

When a generous donor offers more support with strings attached, consider these strategies to maintain a healthy partnership:

  • Assess the conditions: Determine if the requests align with your organization's mission and values.

  • Negotiate terms: Engage in open dialogue to find common ground or compromise where possible.

  • Document agreements: Ensure all conditions and expectations are clearly outlined in writing to avoid future misunderstandings.

How do you balance donor requests while staying true to your mission? Share your strategies.

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Help others by sharing more (125 characters min.)
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    Dr.Pavani Mandiram

    Managing Director | Top Voice in 66 skills I Recognised as The Most Powerful Woman in Business by Business Today Magazine

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    Giving isn't always as selfless as we think. Remember that the act of giving often involves an element of control Friedrich Nietzsche," Shouldn't the giver be thankful that the receiver received? Isn't giving a need? Isn't receiving mercy?" Recognise the hidden agendas behind the donation Accidental giving is the only form that doesn't demand anything in return Detach from the subconscious powerplay or coercive behaviours while recognising your own expectations and desires Choose mindfully how you would like to respond while being aware that by receiving, you are entering into a "Social Contract" Remind the donor that giving should be a joyous act while humbly requesting them to detach from expectations or specific outcomes

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    Jeanne Troy
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    Clearly, finding out what those conditions are, and listening to what is said and not said. That being noted, work with the donor to see if the restrictions are doable. There is no harm in saying “No, thank you. The restrictions placed do not work with our mission.” Honesty, always, is key.

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    Winnie Katende

    CEO & Founder, C-Her Foundation | I help C-section mothers heal, find strength and Joy After Birth.

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    To navigate a donor's specific requests, it's essential to engage in open and transparent communication. First, fully understand their conditions by asking clarifying questions and ensuring alignment with your organization's goals. Then, assess whether their requests are feasible and beneficial for your work. If needed, negotiate terms to find a balance between their expectations and your organization's mission. Finally, create a clear agreement outlining the conditions, and ensure both parties are committed to the partnership's success.

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    Ajit Brar

    Philanthropist | Turning compassion into action Founder of Joti Foundation | Ex Trilegal

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    It very important to clarify the donor’s objectives and motivations and see if they are aligned with your organization’s mission and feasibility. If the above is positive then be transparent about challenges and propose alternatives and middle ground with realistic milestones and measurable outcomes. During the negotiation lay special focus on shared impact to align goals. Key Considerations • Ensure alignment with values and cultural sensitivity. • Prioritize sustainability and resource feasibility. • Establish accountability with clear reporting and regular updates. • Maintain a positive relationship for future opportunities.

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    Thomas J Carson

    Executive Director @ Victory House Of Lehigh Valley | Director-level, Board of Directors, Executive Leadership, Federal Grant Management, Veteran, Veterans Affairs Grantee,

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    Get clear on what the conditions entail. Always protect the organizations brand over a donation. Reputation is something that takes a long time to build but is easily ruined by one bad decision.

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