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Ahhh, school is almost over. For some, possibly already done. The temps are peeking into the 80s. You may have even broken out a pair of shorts and flip-flops one recent weekend.
Summer is RIGHTAROUNDTHECORNER. And you can’t wait to greet it with open arms.
I feel you. I really do. But if you work for a non-profit organization and June 30 is your fiscal year-end, I hate to say this but . . .
June is a GREAT time for a little money-making hustle and a strategic look-ahead.
But Juuuuullliieeeeee. I’m tired. I don’t wanna. Don’t make me.
Ok, ok, but hear me out. My ideas aren’t that difficult, take little time, and little or no money, but they can set your organization up to make it rain some money.
$5 Fridays: If you have a solid Facebook following (strong audience in numbers and engagement) consider hosting a $5 Fridays Fundraiser all the Fridays in June. The money raised can count toward one overall goal OR each different Friday could have a different goal. This type of campaign is great for low-budget items that otherwise might not be funded such as art supplies for summer camp, or toys and treats for rescue animals.
Day of Giving: Again, if you have a lower amount budget item, why not host a day of online giving to help fund that item for the new year? For example, I formerly worked for an animal welfare facility, and every year in June we hosted our Food Bowl fundraiser which raised money to purchase food for our rescues in the coming fiscal year. Because it was a very tangible need, and the ask was small ($30 for 30 days), it was always very successful.
Spread Summer Love: June also is a great time to spend some time thanking your donors. How about a mid-year impact report detailing how their gifts have made a difference? And what about scheduling a few phone calls or emails each day? For a few major donors, ask them for coffee? (iced, of course!) It may be summer now, but time spent thanking donors now will be time very well spent when holiday ask season rolls around.
Get a Jump on Planning: June also is a great time to plan for the future. Was your gala in the Spring? Now is a great time to start planning for 2023 including choosing committee members and securing a lead sponsor. The holiday season is just months away, so build a timeline to enhance your success including monthly donor touches and securing a matching gift challenge donor.
These are just a few quick ideas for making your last month your best month. Typically, June is 30 days of low activity for many non-profits, so take advantage of the opportunity to both catch your breath and create some solid “wins” that can pay off immediately or set you up for future success!