Your fundraising goals have been exposed by a volunteer. How do you regain control of the narrative?

2 Communicate Quickly

Once you've assessed the impact, it's essential to communicate quickly with your stakeholders. Be honest about the situation and explain what happened without assigning blame. Your supporters will appreciate transparency and a clear outline of the steps you're taking to address the issue. This swift communication can help mitigate any negative perceptions and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining trust within your community.

3 Reaffirm Goals

After addressing the immediate concerns, it's time to reaffirm your fundraising goals and the reasons behind them. Explain the importance of your cause and how the disclosed goals align with your mission. This is also an opportunity to express gratitude for the support received thus far and to encourage continued engagement. By reaffirming your goals, you remind your audience of the bigger picture and why their contributions are so valuable.

4 Update Policies

In light of the exposure, review and update your volunteer policies to prevent future incidents. This might involve additional training or clearer guidelines on handling sensitive information. By taking proactive steps to strengthen your internal processes, you demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and continuous improvement. Letting your supporters know about these updates can further restore confidence in your organization.

5 Engage Community

Engaging your community is a powerful way to regain control of the narrative. Encourage open dialogue and feedback from your supporters. This engagement can provide valuable insights into their perceptions and help you refine your messaging. It also fosters a sense of community ownership over the fundraising efforts, which can lead to increased support and advocacy for your cause.