Partners in Purpose
Resources for donors to simplify giving and build trust.
Is it you or is it me?
There are countless resources to help donors hold nonprofit partners accountable, and just as many resources to help nonprofits manage donors' expectations. Yet, there are few resources to help donors and nonprofits build trust with one another.
Splashed across front pages today are headlines that point to some nonprofits and donors talking at each other and not with each other. Considering that nearly half a trillion dollars is given to charity each year, your relationships with nonprofits are crucial now more than ever.
$499.33
billion
given by Americans in 2022 to charity
Hover below to learn about common barriers to trusting relationships that donors and nonprofits experience, and scroll down for reflection questions you can use in your giving.
WORRY
Your nonprofit partners may hesitate to address the power dynamics in their relationships with you out of fear that they might lose your support. (Ostrander, 2007)
Giving can feel risky for donors if their nonprofit partners are not transparent about how gifts are used and what the outcomes were (or, more importantly, weren't).
RISK
SILENCE
Donors are often left in the dark about whether their gifts were received, what impact their giving had, and even major changes in the nonprofit's leadership and program activities. This article from the Chronicle of Philanthropy (2024) captures a donor's perspective on the importance of relationships that are two-way streets.
LIMITS
Nonprofit leaders and fundraisers often find themselves in organizations that are significantly understaffed, which can impact their abilities to be responsive. At the same time, fundraisers are often balancing the needs of multiple constituencies impacted by philanthropy (Keegan, 2021).
Building trust with your grantees is crucial for effective philanthropy. Below are six steps you can take to establish trust and four ways you can address power in the relationship:
Be Transparent
Clearly communicate expectations, limitations, and decision-making processes to grantees. Similarly, grantees should feel comfortable sharing their challenges, successes, and needs with you.
Be Flexible
Understand that needs may change over time, and be willing to shift your support. This could include adjusting grant terms, providing additional resources, or offering technical assistance based on the grantee's needs.
Respect Autonomy
Empower grantees to implement their projects in ways that align with their expertise and the needs of the communities they serve.
​
​
Build Relationships
Invest in building long-term relationships with grantees beyond the duration of a single gift. A relationship based on mutual respect and understanding fosters trust and will help you both to achieve greater impact.
Listen Actively
Create opportunities for open dialogue where grantees can voice their concerns, ideas, and suggestions.
​
​
Foster Accountability
Encourage nonprofit partners to share successes and challenges, using this information to iterate. By fostering continuous learning, you can build trust through a shared dedication to maximizing the impact of philanthropy.