It’s been a mystery as to whether or not fundraisers would thrive during COVID-19. Despite the fact that many people want to help, the reality is that unemployment is high and income is low for many Americans right now due to the pandemic.
However, a recent CCS Fundraising Climate Survey taken between May 21 and June 1, 2020 found that fundraising is showing some signs of increase and fundraisers are feeling fairly positive sentiment in spite of the difficult times. Here’s what the survey found, according to The NonProfit Times:
- Fundraising increases were reported by 23 percent of survey respondents on June 1, compared to 14 percent prior to May 1.
- Decreases in fundraising were reported to be at 56 percent on June 1, compared to 63 percent prior to May 1.
- 72 percent of respondents expected a decline in fundraising, compared to 79 percent prior to May 1.
- Almost a quarter of respondents expected an increase in their major gifts programs.
- One in five surveyed projected an increase in their organization’s annual appeal.
- Nearly one-third of respondents conducted an online fundraising event to replace physical events cancelled due to COVID-19.
- One in three respondents have not seen a change in their unrestricted dollars.
- Human and Social Services, as well as Performing Arts sectors saw significant increases in unrestricted funds.
- The majority of respondents (72 percent) reported no staffing changes or reported that additional staff was added to their organization.
The pandemic has affected every piece of American life, but we are excited to see that fundraising remains strong and nonprofits continue to drive change. What changes have you experienced at your nonprofit? What changes are you seeing in your fundraising results?