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Choosing A Donor Recognition Wall

By Jeffrey Allen


Raising money for a nonprofit organization is a core aspect of the life of any group. If this part is successful, the organizers will be able to continue offering the programs that are needed. Part of the success of any fundraising effort should be including a donor recognition wall. This not only provides those who have participated in an excellent way to be thanked but also inspires other potential donors to participate in the support of the group as well.

A glass presentation can be basic or elaborate. The most basic is a simple glass case that includes the names of those that have offered help. More elaborate pieces include lit or colored glass that is etched with the names of the donors. Caution should be used where it is placed. For instance, high activity areas and those where children are playing put it at risk of being broken and causing injury.

Brick walls are an excellent and permanent choice for presenting the names of donors. There are a couple of ways of using this method. One is to have the names engraved in each brick. Another way is to use it as a backdrop for other display options. This provides a way to bring elegance into the presentation area, especially if it is set off from the surrounding wall.

Digital displays will provide an ongoing tally of the efforts. As the campaign is growing, these are a way to add new names and totals for those that wish to keep up with the fundraiser. These are not often used as a permanent display but will be great to have as new campaigns are built. They give a modern look and can be updated easily.

Architectural design provides one of the top level display options. These can incorporate both glass and brick in its design. These are much more expensive, but by setting the budget early, the organization can plan for a larger capital funding effort designed to bring in large donations. There are often levels of donations required to be included in this type of display.

Budgets and planning need to be done before the campaign materials are created. Any fundraiser needs to have a budget that includes the entire project. Having this will help make it easy to create the various levels of contribution that will be needed for the different types of recognition. Not every donor should have their name on the wall, but those that give above a certain amount. This will inspire people to give more in order to be recognized.

At the end of the campaign, the wall should be built and then unveiled. A special event should be planned to have politicians, the contributors, and those that the money helps all present for a very special time. This gives great appreciation to those who gave and allows them to see how the money will be put to use. The event will also inspire others who did not participate to do so next time a fundraising effort is put forth.

Raising money for an organization is often a full-time effort. Those that donate money to further the cause should be rewarded and recognized for their generous contributions. Having a permanent place to show other potential donors that they too will be appreciated will increase the potential for future campaigns.




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