Passion Moves Mountains and Is a Key to Fundraising Success

Passion moves people and people move mountains. Passion is an intense emotion that can inspire us to accomplish the seemingly impossible task, yes even move mountains. For me passion is a key ingredient for successful fundraising. Enthusiasm goes hand in hand with passion; it’s contagious. And finally, don’t say I can’t, just believe – because you can. There are no secrets to fundraising. Really! The hardest part may be getting over the fear of rejection and just getting started.
Chances are you’ve already read “Ask and ye shall receive.” It’s really that simple. Of course asking the right people sometimes helps, and timing is always a key. When you present your cause, do it with the passion that drove you to make the commitment. We are all human and we respond to one another, it’s just a law of nature. Don’t be afraid, after all the worse anyone can say is NO. And every time you hear a NO, you’re just that much closer to a YES. It’s statistics.
I remember the first time I was put in a position to raise money. I was a political novice, young and naïve and had no idea it was a tough job that no one else wanted to attempt. So off I went with one of the greatest teachers I’ve ever known. He taught me the basics of fundraising that I’ve just shared with you. He was one of the most charismatic gentlemen I’ve ever known and when people asked him how he was; the answer was always the same, “Absolutely magnificent!” You could feel it! You felt like he was doing something right to be so effervescent and jubilant and you wanted to be a part of it, inspired to help and hopeful to also achieve that nirvana.
If you’re saying, well I don’t have that personality, don’t worry, it doesn’t matter. That’s how he conveyed his passion. You are unique and should communicate yours in your own way. He wasn’t without flaws as are any of us, but if he called on someone to help – he was focused, committed, and passionate.
There you have it, and with this simple approach I have raised millions of dollars and awareness for charity, politicians, community organizations and civic projects. Remember this – never ask someone to support a cause or make a contribution that you wouldn’t do yourself. Perhaps they can write a larger check or give more time, that’s not important. You share and support a common cause. And remember most need to be asked; volunteering doesn’t come natural to many people.
Some of the dollars I’ve raised have gone to: provide healthcare for a lady who lived in an iron lung for 60 years; a friend and Congressman who I know is made of the right stuff; animal causes because of a tender spot in my heart; and a cultural and educational exhibition that afforded children an opportunity to learn about our state’s history when others believed it could never be done. I was passionate about each of these.
Through these efforts I have experienced great joy, made lifelong friends, and I hope helped a fellow human being in some small way; but I was the one richly blessed each time. I truly believe it is better to give than to receive. The good Lord will help you use your talents to accomplish your missions. Go ahead, step out there and raise some money for whatever it is that matters to you. Pennies grow into dollars which multiply into hundreds, and before you know it, you have made a huge difference. Make your mind up, engage your heart, invite others to join you, and don’t give up. You’ll be glad you did. You will be successful. It’s just another law of nature.
I was asked to write a feature about fundraising for an international organization whose purpose is to reduce world famine by raising money and awareness. For more information about BloggerAid, please visit http://bloggeraidmarketing.ning.com and join with others to make a difference, one meal at a time.