Nonprofit people are the ones in our society who do the hard work. The real work. Every single day. You do it with limited resources and the odds often stacked against you.

And yet, you still prevail.

So, who better to confront COVID-19 and its associated disruptions head on than you, Dear Reader?

I know you’re dealing with figuring out how to tamp down the tide of panic and keep your employees safe, your clients served, and your head on straight. But, let’s talk about fundraising for just a minute.

The truth is that fundraising will be affected, one way or another. You’re going to have to get creative. And you need to be prepared.

You have donors who are likely feeling scared and uncertain – about their money, their families, their jobs, and more. This may affect their willingness to give. It will almost certainly affect their willingness to congregate.

Now is the time for you and your team to carve out the space, safety, and calm to map out a plan A and a plan B.

I sat down with some other consultants to identify how fundraisers can tackle the days ahead and here are the top suggestions I want to share:

1. Control what you can

Things feel shaky, but there are many things you can control. For example, you can determine how often and in what manner you communicate with your donors. Figure out what you can control and then control it.

2. Play out the scenarios

Think objectively about what might happen and then create mitigation strategies. Be realistic. What if your gala must be cancelled? What if your spring appeal performs poorly? Develop a high-level plan for each scenario and see what you can do now to prepare.

3. Identify your heroes and talk to them NOW

You’re not the only hero, my friend. This is a great opportunity for your biggest donors to step up in a new way. Reach out to your major donors before you need them. Keep them apprised of what you’re doing to prepare, get their advice, and ask if you can circle back to them for help if the need arises.

4. Stay connected to all your donors

This is the time to get more personal with your donors. They’re probably worried about you! Reassure them. Consider a weekly video or missive to keep them posted on what’s happening with your clients and your organization. Consider using a little humor.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask

You may need to pull back on a few major solicitations, but you should continue to reach out and ask for support wherever you can. Think language like this: “We’re on mission. The struggles our clients are going through aren’t going to change. They need your support.”

Be brave, listen to your donors, be kind to yourself. This is your time to be a hero. And your time to help others be heroes, too.