Building Lasting Relationships with Past Board Members
Serving on the board of a non-profit organization provides individuals with the ability to directly influence and impact the causes important to them. Some organizations set term limits while others let members decide individually when they’ll depart. No matter how your organization is structured, both parties understand their time on the board will eventually come to an end.
However, it's important to keep showing gratitude and appreciation for past members, even if they're less active with the organization. While their time on the board is limited, their passion for the cause is not. Maintaining a relationship with past members benefits both parties.
There are many ways to stay connected with past board members. Examples include:
Sharing annual progress reports
Sending invitations to events
Writing thoughtful letters
Proposing a meeting or check-in
Mailing branded swag.
No matter what route you choose, the goal is to let your past members know that their time with the organization continues to be remembered and cherished.
Maintaining relationships with past donors keeps them engaged, making it easier to ask for help in the future. If and when a crisis happens with your cause, past members will be more likely to offer support.
Reaching out to past board members for help can look different. Here are three major ways you can stay connected and make your own fundraising more efficient.
Introductions to their network
Reaching new potential donors can be challenging and time-consuming. Past board members can help connect your organization with individuals in their network who share the same passion for the cause. A warm introduction to potential donors increases the likelihood they will support your mission and even join the board themselves.
Hosting events
For political groups that organize their work around electoral cycles, fundraising deadlines and election dates are crucial. During crunch time, you can reach out to past board members for their help. By asking them to host events for GOTV efforts, fundraisers.
Another great option are salon sessions, which are smaller get togethers often hosted at a donor's home and free for invitees to attend to speak about your organization’s mission and get them involved. Salon sessions are great for community building and provide opportunity for possible donors to meet the team. For board members across the country, virtual sessions allows them to stay involved.
Amplify the message
Board members are active in their community and can use their connections to help spread the word. During times of crisis or near electoral deadlines, the more voices echoing your message the better. Use your past members' influence to amplify the message and increase the urgency and importance of your mission.
Board members, past and present, dedicate their time, money, and expertise to help your organization succeed. It is important to make them feel valued and involved. Many of them join your organization because they want to make a change, not just write a big check. Finding ways to keep them actively involved can prove to be a mutually beneficial relationship. By keeping board members engaged, you can foster a partnership that benefits both your organization and the community it serves.
If your organization would like to continue growing your donor-relationship and cultivation strategy, book a FREE 15-minute consultation call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you grow!