You’re Not Alone: Facing Uncertainty with Strength and Strategy

Fundraise Now: Nonprofit Strategies for Uncertainty | GPG
Fundraise Now: Nonprofit Strategies for Uncertainty | GPG

Times feel shaky right now. Perhaps even worse than last week. If you’re leading a nonprofit, you might be wondering:

  • What’s going to happen next?
  • How will this affect our organization and our funding?
  • What about me, my team, and the people we serve?

These are real concerns, but you are not alone. 

Many nonprofit leaders are facing these same fears. But there’s good news, too: here are steps you can take – right now – to connect with donors and sustain your mission no matter what happens…

Donors Are Your Lifeline: Keep Them Close

Who will be there for you if government funding slows or a grant doesn’t come through? 

Your donors.

Just remember – they are your true believers! They WANT to see you succeed. 

And they’ll step up—if you keep them engaged and make them feel like partners in your work.

Keep Your Donors Close: 

  • Send them regular updates. Keep them in the loop. Stay in touch. Send them news about what’s happening. 
  • Consider hosting a virtual town hall. Donors love to feel like insiders. Let them ask questions and hear directly from you.
  • Strengthen your stewardship efforts. Thank, thank and then thank again. The more connected they feel, the more they’ll continue giving.

Major Donors: Now is the Time to Deepen Those Relationships

Also, never forget that your major donors care very deeply about your cause. 

And in uncertain times, they are often ready to do more, not less. 

But – you must stay in touch!

  • Reach out personally. Give them personal updates before they ask. They really want to know what’s happening!
  • It’s perfectly ok to have honest conversations. Be transparent! Let them know the challenges you’re facing. Share the numbers with them. 
  • Show them their impact. Remind them of the difference they are making. Make them feel like partners in your success.

This is the Time to Communicate Boldly

We are seeing silence from our favorite nonprofits these days. It’s not the time to step back from your communications! 

Many nonprofits tend to go silent when uncertainty strikes. 

But here’s the truth—your donors WANT to hear from you. As we’ve said, they are interested in news. 

Find out how we can help you achieve your fundraising goals with world-class consulting and custom training.

Partner with us.

They’ve already “voted” with their money that they believe in your work.

And giving makes them feel good. 

It brings joy, purpose, and connection—something people crave in challenging times. So, reach out, and keep them in the loop.

The Power of Transparency: Tell the Full Story

Many donors don’t fully understand how nonprofits are funded. 

This is your chance to educate them—not just on how much money has been lost, but on the real impact these cuts have on the people you serve.

Impact messages can trigger generosity and drive even more gifts. 

Don’t Forget the Rules for Effective Donor Communication:

  • Use clear, simple language.
  • Be honest about challenges—but also share your plan.
  • Tell compelling stories that illustrate impact.
  • Perhaps use a visual, like a color-coded pie chart, to explain funding sources.

Use Our 3-Step Crisis Fundraising Ask

If you are asking for support, follow this simple yet powerful approach:

  1. Start with gratitude and connection. “Thank you so much for your support. We appreciate you more than ever.”
  2. Be transparent about your challenges. “We are facing a funding gap that threatens X program. Here’s what’s happening…”
  3. Make a permission-based ask. “Would you like to know how you can help?”

When framed as an invitation, this approach feels warm, collaborative, and empowering for your donor.

Bottom Line: Keep Your Donors Close 

  • Reach out to donors—your supporters want to hear from you.
  • Treat them like insiders—share challenges and opportunities openly.
  • Keep up the personal connections—especially with major donors.
  • Be transparent and specific—tell real stories about real people, not just statistics.

Your donors believe in what you do. Keep them informed, engaged, and inspired, and they will stand with you—no matter what lies ahead.

We’re here for you. Let’s keep moving forward together.

Let Us Help You Strengthen Your Fundraising

Navigating uncertainty is challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. 

Our team specializes in helping nonprofits build strong donor relationships, craft compelling fundraising strategies, and secure the funding they need to thrive—even in difficult times.

If you need guidance, strategy support, or simply someone to help you chart a clear path forward, we’re here for you. Let’s work together to keep your mission strong.

Reach out to us today to learn how we can help you achieve your fundraising goals.

CUSTOM FUNDRAISING STRATEGIES FOR REAL RESULTS
SUPPORT@GAILPERRY.COM | GAILPERRYGROUP.COM | 919-821-3050

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