Women Connected to Your Department: Limitless Potential

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/stopdown/

The role of women in most fire departments continues to expand. Congratulations to everyone on this progress!

As an October 2010 study from the University of Indiana Center on Philanthropy illustrates, the role of women in making donations to worthwhile nonprofits like yours offers limitless potential. The study analyzed the giving habits of 8,000 single-headed US households.

A couple highlights of the report: 

1. Across income levels, women give more frequently and at higher amounts to charity than men in similar circumstances. The higher the income level, the higher the gap between female and male donations.

2. Women generally spread out their donation to more charities where men tend to focus on gifts to a smaller total number of nonprofits. 

3.  Community causes are the second highest charitable sector women are more likely to donate to than men.

You may download the entire University of Indiana report at this link.

Other previously-released studies have reinforced the significant impact women have on the giving decisions made by couples. 

What lessons can you apply from this report to your fundraising efforts?

1. Women-headed households are absolutely worthy prospects for increasing your donor base with entry-level gifts for your department's fundraising campaign.

2. Never overlook using the full preferred names of the women in the households who donate to your critical public safety efforts. The listing on a check or the information entered in an online donation form are great places to verify this information. 

3. Your current or previous women donors may be a source of volunteer support for your department. If serving as a member isn't a fit, you may offer a fit for women to help in caring for and staying in touch with your existing donors.

For a more direct commentary on this topic, visit a blog from Tony Martignetti here. 

Looking for assistance in crafting your fundraising message for 2011? Contact FlashPoint Fundraising today to discuss communications services that clearly and concisely demonstrate your department's incredible impact on your community.