What is it like to be a donor to your organization? Is it gratifying? With limited resources, nonprofits need ways to break out of the clutter and keep their donors engaged. In part 1, I discussed one way nonprofits can learn how to best connect and build relationships with their donors. Now let's get into another way nonprofits can not only encourage donors to donate, but also help with awareness and brand building.

Engage donors by letting them live the experience. People make decisions emotionally. Give your donors emotional gratification by telling them what their investment is doing. How are your donors making a difference in peoples' lives? How are their donations improving the world?

Spark feelings in your donors by enlivening your content with stories and pictures from the field. Any time there is an opportunity to take pictures, take them! Ask volunteers or clients about their experiences and then share those success stories. Not only are stories a powerful way to touch your donors and encourage them to continue to donate, but stories can also encourage donors' to spread the good word about your organization. When people are talking to each other they are usually telling stories. Give them anecdotes that make it easier for them to communicate their passion and demonstrate the value of your organization. 

Here is how you can easily gather touching experiences or poignant points to share with your donors:" Regularly ask your volunteers and/or clients inquisitive questions in a short online survey. (Click here for some good questions to ask to get this content.) 

From the results, pull memorable experiences to share in your newsletters and other marketing media that your donors see. By taking your donors through real experiences you strengthen their connection to your organization; ignite their passion; inspire them to share the good work with friends, family, and co-workers; and make their continued support of your cause an easy choice.

Regularly taking the actions mentioned in this post and in part 1 will improve the experience of being a donor to your organization, and will provide donors with recurring reasons for continued support. The more engaged and inspired your current donors are, the more likely they will be long term supporters of your efforts, donate more, and tell others about your great work! Happy growing!