3.6.5 Using ‘involvement devices’ sensitively and appropriately
It is unreasonable to expect donor loyalty to be built exclusively on the basis of ever purer forms of altruism. You cannot ignore the element of ‘exchange’ involved. Involvement devices, like those in Box 4, acknowledge people's contribution and offer an incentive to further support.
Box 4 Involvement devices in donor and supporter development
Giving personal and public recognition:
badges and stickers (for individuals and vehicles)
scarves, bags and other wearable objects
long or meritorious service awards
rolls of honour
public events to acknowledge major contributions.
Conferring status:
membership (of all sorts of categories: associate/full/family/life)
special clubs, for example 500 clubs for those who donate £500 or more
alumni clubs.
Providing information and developing understanding:
information sheets and special newsletters (over and above any standard publications)
copies of reports and research
chance to attend briefings and conferences.
Opportunities to meet other donors and supporters:
occasional donor meetings and events – with staff, clients, etc.
invitations to celebrity occasions
annual donor dinners
opportunities to join selected groups for particular lobbies, publicity events, etc.
visits to projects.
Providing a role in governance and policy making:
consultations
invitations to join working parties and financial development groups
reserved donor's place on management committee.
Special benefits arrangements:
discounts
reduced rate charges entry to museums, events, etc.
‘limited offers’.