Question:

What are the three most effective strategies for planning a successful fundraising campaign?

Answer:

* Develop your case.

Have a clearly defined and easily understood campaign case – what the organization is raising the money for.  That case also must distinguish the organization from others in the community.

* Cultivate support.

A nonprofit must have buy-in and support from key stakeholders.  These stakeholders can include board members, senior staff and others in the organization.  It is important that they support what you are intending to do.

* Make sure you have the horsepower.

Ask, “Does the organization have the horsepower required to execute the campaign?”  A competent staff and the requisite number of volunteers are necessary to run a successful campaign.

— Compiled by Caroline Monday

Dean Jones is senior vice president of financial development at YMCA of Greater Charlotte.