My son, Jake, and I just returned from a mission trip to the Czech Republic working with Roma parents and children (gypsies). We were developing relationships with a group of people who have been ostracized by society and have little or no resources. We spent four days sharing toys, children’s items, smiles, hugs, time, and love with people less fortunate than us. Yet we got so much more in return.

When the Romani people realized we were there to help them, they started giving back to us. The adults and children shared with us what little they had. Children would bring a bag of chips or candy and share it with the members of our group. Adults brought hot tea on a cold, rainy day. And on our last day they wanted to perform in costume their traditional dances for us.

And it all started because we first gave to them…asking nothing in return.

Is this the approach your organization takes? Giving comes first.

Do donors see your organization as one that gives or only asks? I know as a donor it bothers me that the only time I hear from certain organizations is when they’re asking for a gift. Don’t get me wrong. I’m in the business of helping organizations ask for money using direct mail and the internet, but we also have to give back to our donors.

A museum I’ve supported sends me free tickets to their exhibitions. A rescue mission invites me to enjoy a meal with the men they serve and see all the ways the mission is making a difference. Do you send your donors birthday cards or notes thanking them for being a donor for the last 2, 3 or 5 years? Learn what’s important to your donors and give it to them.

In their book, The Go-Giver, Bob Burg and John David Mann layout The Five Laws of Stratospheric Success for business people. These concepts of giving can apply equally as well to nonprofits.

1. The Law of Value – Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than what you take in payment.
2. The Law of Compensation – Your income is determined by how many people you serve and how well you serve them.
3. The Law of Influence – Your influence is determined by how abundantly you place other people’s interest first.
4. The Law of Authenticity – The most valuable gift you have to offer is yourself.
5. The Law of Receptivity – The key to effective giving is to stay open to receiving. 

Now do a little audit of your organization. Are you giving or taking?

One of the highlights of my trip was when 6-year-old David spotted me and ran across the dirt soccer field to give me a big hug. The day before I had taught David to play wiffle ball. Find ways to give your donors big hugs.

Scott Swedenburg, Principal, Mail Enterprises