Overcoming the Fear: Simple Tips for Confidently Asking for Donations

Picture this: You're passionate about a cause and know it needs funding, but the thought of asking for donations makes you anxious. How do you overcome this fear and make a real impact?

That’s exactly how I felt when I first started fundraising for the Saint Patrick Center Women’s Program. I reached out to a business owner in my office building about a donation. He was friendly and very approachable, but I was still nervous.

Asking for money, even for a good cause, can make even the most confident person second-guess themselves. I kept reminding myself, 'The worst thing that can happen is they say no.'

Fortunately, he said yes and was happy to donate. And there are many others out there who would also be happy to donate, if asked.

All it takes is a little courage and a question. But if you need a little encouragement and guidance, we’re here for you.

In this post, we will cover some basics on how to ask for donations and what to do when you receive one.

Fundraising might feel daunting at first, but with a little practice, anyone can get the hang of it.

Here are some helpful tips to ease your fears about asking for donations and to make sure you're ready when someone generously offers their support.

1. Know Your Cause Thoroughly

The better you understand the cause, the more compelling you will be when asking for money. I am very passionate about the Women’s Program, so my conversation was calm and not pressured.

2. Make It Personal

Make your interactions as personal as possible. Look for values that align with the potential donor and Saint Patrick Center’s mission. The more you show that there are shared values, the more likely they are to agree to donate.

3. Practice with Purpose

Remember, you’re not selling anything. You’re sharing a cause that is close to your heart. Even though you’re passionate, practicing your approach can help you feel more at ease when speaking to potential donors. Take the time to rehearse what you want to say, focusing on the heartfelt message you want to convey. This preparation will make you feel more comfortable and confident when the moment comes to ask for support.

4. Follow Your Passion

Let your passion for the cause guide you when talking to people you don’t know well. The more genuine you are, the more likely they are to engage with you. An engaged person is much more likely to give.

Now that you’re feeling more confident about asking for donations, you might be wondering, “What do I do when someone actually says yes?”

Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this! It’s perfectly normal to have questions about the next steps. The good news is, there are plenty of people and resources to help guide you through the process.

Let’s explore who you can reach out to for advice and how you can make sure every donation is managed with care and appreciation. After all, fundraising is not just about asking – it’s also about building relationships and making sure every supporter feels valued.

When someone agrees to donate, it's an exciting moment, but it can also bring up questions about what to do next. First, take a moment to appreciate the generosity of your donor. A simple thank you goes a long way in showing your gratitude.

Next, be prepared to answer some common questions donors might have:

How can I donate?

Let the donor know they can write a check or go online to donate. If they want to write a check, have them make it out to “St. Patrick Center.” If they prefer to donate online, direct them to www.stpatrickcenter.org/donate for a secure payment with their credit or debit card.

Who do I make the check out to?

Ensure the check is made out to “St. Patrick Center” to avoid any issues with processing.

Where do I send the check?

If they are going to mail a check, provide them with this address:

St. Patrick Center

Mail Stop 450001

PO Box 953745

St. Louis, MO 63195-3745

How will my donation be used?

Explain that an unrestricted donation to St. Patrick Center will support various programs. Share information about the program you are most passionate about. Encourage them to visit the website to see all the good work St. Patrick Center does for the community. They could even become our next volunteer!

If you’re ever unsure about the answers to these or other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bri Gerzevske at 314-802-5416. She can provide you with the accurate information you need to relay to your donors.

Finally, take the time to personally thank your donors. Whether it's through a heartfelt note, an email, or a phone call, expressing your gratitude shows how much their support means to you and the cause. This thoughtful gesture not only acknowledges their generosity but also strengthens the bond between you and your supporters, paving the way for continued collaboration and future donations.

As we head into August challenge yourself to get out there and engage with your network and community on behalf of St. Patrick Center. Spread awareness about the organization, share social media posts, and don’t be afraid to ask for support for our great cause. All these things help the people who rely on St. Patrick Center. Happy fundraising!