In 2007 Americans for the first time gave over $300 billion in charitable giving to organizations.
But what is the outlook as we near the end of 2008 and in the midst of a huge economic crisis and downturn?
Recent polling shows that only 11% of Americans gave more this year to charitable donations than they have in the past. Approximately 29% said they have given about the same, and the majority of Americans, 58%, said they have given less than in the past.
While the economy may be a factor in all of this, presenting people with the right message might help to boost these numbers. Organizations simply cannot rely on “old messsages” that have worked in the past. People want to know who they are giving to, why they are giving and have to believe enough in the cause to make any sacrifice. By “polling” an organizations donors it is possible for organizations to find out exactly what messages will increase the likliehood of a donor giving money to an organization.
WPA has a sophisticated and proven program called Donor Enhancement that we have trademarked. By “polling” donor lists, and using our Message Mapping technology, we can give organizations clear, precise messages that will enhance their ability to increase donations from current donors and help to bring lapsed donors back into the fold.
Organizations can no longer sit back and blame the economy or other factors for decrewasing donations. Organizations must look to revive their mission with new and fresh messages that are proven to work. Only then will the numbers above begin to increase again.
