What donors ask on the street, and how we answer

“Who are you with?”

Virtually all states that regulate paid fundraisers require a professional fundraiser to identify itself as one, and many require it to disclose that it is being paid, according to Perlman & Perlman. Our representatives say who they are and who they represent at the start, not when asked.

“How much actually reaches the charity?”

If a donor asks, the fundraiser must truthfully disclose how much of the donation will go to the charity. There is no version of this conversation where a vague answer is the right one.

“What will my money do?”

This is where the brief earns its keep. Representatives describe your programs as your organization describes them. The AFP Code of Ethical Standards asks fundraisers to convey information about programs without misrepresentation and to keep fundraising communications accurate. If we do not know, we say so and follow up rather than fill the gap.

“Can I think about it?”

Yes. No pressure tactics: clear information, honest asks, and respect for every person we speak with, including the ones who say no. A donor pushed into a monthly gift they did not want is a cancellation and a story about your organization.

That is the standard every representative is trained and briefed to meet before they speak for your cause.