Why Do People Give?

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

Through the resource of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), I have had the opportunity to engage in phenomenal, relevant ongoing education covering fundraising and philanthropy through a combination of prescribed formal classes and local chapter programs. 

If you're not already connected to your local AFP chapter, drop me a line here and I will help you make that connection. I highly recommend their programs!

One example of how AFP education has helped me is in understanding why people give to nonprofit causes. Since it isn't logical to just give money away, understanding motivations makes for more effective fundraising. This list represents my summary of the most important reasons people give, enabled by my AFP education:

1. First and foremost, people give because they were asked. What asking do you have planned for your fundraising? Are you asking people you've already built relationships with?

2. People give to make a difference and make the world a better place. Nonprofit donations enable mission progress. How are you communicating that gifts to your organization make the world a better place?

3. People give to causes they are predisposed to support based on family history and personal experience. How is your list of people predisposed to your cause coming along? For more details on that list opportunity, click here. 

What are your thoughts on why people give? Please share them in the comments section below.