October 2009 has been an incredibly turbulent ride financially. The stock exchange has been hit hard, the dollar is down and we’re still trying to recover from the worldwide recession. For organizations depending on fundraising for their worthy causes how is this going to affect 2010 and upcoming years?

 Buckle Up

 People will have to look after themselves more and it will take a bigger percentage of their dollar to do that. With large financial issues at stake companies will have to make decisions affecting many people. People will think twice about the frequency of contributions and the total given to charities. In a recent USA today poll conducted recently it was found that although two-thirds of Americans expected to donate the same amount or more in the coming year as they did in the past year, 72% said their finances affect their philanthropy.

 Americans are known as being one of the most giving people in the world. There will be fluctuations in the New Year but not everything is bleak. One of the most reassuring signs is asked again later in the same USA today poll. When asked how much they are planning on donating to charities in 2010, 51% responded with the same amount and a whopping 26% said they were planning on contributing more!

 How This Will Affect Fundraising Campaigns

 Until the picture is clear as to what kind of recession is coming people may be unsteady on giving. People limit donations during an economic downturn even if their personal finances are not affected because they have a “recessionary mind-set,” says Rick Dunham of Dunham + Company, a consultant to religious charities.

 What’s the Right Course of Action for Fundraising in 2010?

 A lot of contradictory information, so what is the best course of action while the financial crisis gets sorted out? Fundraising campaigns are going to have to be prepared to work a little harder for there money.

 The best course of action is to consult a professional fundraising company to find a campaign and product best suited to your goals. Potential donors best respond to items in exchange instead of services rendered campaigns. Advertising for campaigns and volunteer incentives will have to be more humble. In economic downturns it never hurts to stay in touch with the donors you know for contributions. They are there because they believe in the cause and it doesn’t cost any money to go out and find them.

Bello, Marisol, Poll: Donors feel fiscal squeeze , http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/charity/2008-10-07-charity-poll_N.htm, October 29, 2008.