$50, or $100 to your project. Consider offer- ing a small token of appreciation for their contribution such as a hat or a t-shirt. These donors can also support your project by word of mouth, and might suggest others willing to contribute as well. 5. Clear communication: While you are engaged in fundraising, make sure your message is clear and consistent. Be specific as you can when you ask for donations. “Do- nate today!” and “Please give!” are too vague. “We are only $900 away from saving the last Santa Fe diesel locomotive in Podunk Coun- ty!” is a better example. Keep in touch with all of your donors and let them know your progress. If you are using one of the popular online fundraising sites, or your own web site, make sure people know how to find it, and make sure it is updated with the latest news, photos, and information. Keeping peo- ple engaged will also encourage repeat do- nations. 6. Barter or trade: Try reaching out to local suppliers for donations in-kind. You might be able to obtain supplies as a dona- tion or at reduced cost. A contractor may be willing to donate his services in exchange for referrals, or a placard proclaiming, “This ca- boose was painted by Bob’s Commercial Fin- ishing, Inc.” Offering sponsorships is anoth- er idea to attract support from local businesses and show extended community involvement. 7. Many hands make light work: Like any project, the work is easier when it is split up. Don’t try to do everything yourself, have other members of your organization as- sist. For instance, one person can investigate
grants, while another focuses on local fundraising, while another focuses on letter- writing campaigns and so on. Don’t have that many people in your organization? Then you might want to consider scaling back your efforts or partnering with another like-minded group to help achieve your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Many great resources are available online if you search for “fundraising for non-profits.” 8. Regroup: Finally, don’t be afraid to take a hard look at your situation and come up with a scaled-back approach. Perhaps purchasing, rebuilding, and operating a loco- motive is too much for your group to handle in one year. Pehaps more modest goals are the answer while your group gains valuable experience and works towards the next phase. Sometimes outside forces like the economy, or emergency expenses like unex- pected repairs will temporarily shift your fo- cus. Suspending a campaign so your organi- zation can regroup can be a wise choice, but don’t give up after a short period of time just because donations are “slow.” Be persistent and encouraging!
These are just a few ideas to help get you
started. Remember that smart fundraising does not rely on any one single method for success. A combination of approaches will yield the best results, and keep everyone in your organization engaged.
Associate editor Otto M. Vondrak is a trustee of the Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum in Rochester, N.Y., and has been an active volunteer with many historic preser- vation groups throughout the northeast.
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