“Social distancing” is now a universal term as people from all over the world isolate to help slow the spread of coronavirus, known as Covid-19. As we are adjusting to the new “normal”, this a good time to communicate with your supporters and let them know what your organization is doing.  Tell them how you have adapted to the crisis and what support you need to continue working towards your mission.

Many organizations are currently struggling to decide if this is the right time to ask for support when everyone is struggling. 

The answer is yes! 

That doesn’t mean pretending it is business as usual or being overly aggressive in your communications. Instead, address the Covid-19 issue  and let your supporters know how they can help your organization in this uncertain time. People want to help, but you have to let them know how and why it is important. Find the right balance that works for the type of organization that you are and create a plan to engage.

Ideas you can do today:

•  Communicate regularly with your supporters: donors, volunteers, community partners. Segment these groups and send relevant information to them. Host a video call or virtual town hall event.
•  Say thank you! Let your supporters know that you appreciate them. Make phone calls to your biggest supporters (remember support isn’t only about monetary donations), send a personal card or note, or make a short video saying thank you that you can share on social media.
• Tell your supporters how this pandemic has affected your organization and let them know how you are meeting this new challenge. What have you, as an organization, learned? How will you apply this learning to your organization’s future?
• Communicate how your supporters can help at this time. Don’t force your supporters to guess.
• Enlist the help of your best ambassadors. Ask them to help you reach out to other donors and volunteers. Ask if they will tell people in their network about your organization. Ask if they would be willing to write a testimonial that you can use in your fundraising.

If you think it will look bad to fundraise at this moment, think about the alternative. Nonprofits are an integral part of our society and we will need you to be around for years to come.