How Nonprofit Volunteers Can Become Donors

Unlock the powerful connection between volunteers and donors. James Goalder, Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, makes a compelling case: Volunteers and donors aren’t separate groups—they’re driven by the same passion to make a difference, and nonprofits should engage them accordingly.

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“The reason people volunteer and the reason they donate are often pretty similar... If you’re not appealing to them for both, you’re missing out on a way to really cement that relationship,” James begins. This shift in mindset could be a game-changer, breaking down traditional silos and unlocking new opportunities for deeper engagement and support.

James also tackles the sector’s current challenges head-on. With donor and volunteer numbers on the decline since the pandemic, nonprofits are increasingly leaning on major donors to keep things afloat. But he warns, “If the donor universe has dropped but the dollars have stayed relatively the same, that means we’re going back to the same major donors again and again... and eventually, they’re going to get tired.” This ‘donor fatigue’ threatens sustainability unless nonprofits start thinking differently—by engaging volunteers as donors and showing how both time and money make an impact.

The key? Storytelling. James details how effective communication, filled with emotional narratives and impact-driven stories, keeps supporters inspired. When volunteers see the value of their time and donors understand how every dollar makes a difference, the relationship deepens. “Whether they stuff envelopes or write a check, both contributions matter,” he offers.

This sparkling conversation will fire up nonprofits to rethink their engagement strategies. It’s not just about separating donors and volunteers—it’s about recognizing the overlap, nurturing those connections, and keeping supporters engaged with stories that resonate. With fresh ideas and actionable advice, you’ll feel energized and ready to bring volunteers and donors together to build something lasting and impactful.

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