One of the ten basic responsibilities of nonprofit Boards is to ensure adequate resources for the organization. In other words, Board members are expected to participate in fundraising. But what do you do when you find yourself with a Board who shies away from anything that remotely resembles fundraising?

First, understand that most Board members are inexperienced in fundraising and don’t know what to do. Some can be downright scared and unwilling to participate. A little training and support can go a long way toward engaging Boards in raising money.

The first step is to re-connect Board members to your mission and help them fire up their passion. Bring a client or volunteer to a Board meeting to give a first-hand account of the mission in action. Or show a short video (no more than 5 minutes) of service delivery. This can inspire a Board to take their role seriously.

Recently, I saw this strategy in action. I was working with a small organization with a Board of just nine members. They had become very complacent and would not participate in any fundraising. After a heart-to-heart talk, they admitted that they just weren’t totally committed to the organization. They said they felt disconnected. So, at the next Board meeting, we brought in a key volunteer to tell about his experiences in delivering the organization’s service. He spoke for about 30 minutes and afterward, people were visibly moved. We were then able to have a serious conversation about what needed to happen to move the organization forward. It didn’t take long for them to realize that what they really need is more money - money to run programs, money to hire staff, money to deliver their mission. And they were ready and willing to take on the challenge of raising money.

Once Board members are fired up, be very clear with them about what you want them to do. They aren’t mind readers. Tell them about specific tasks that need to be accomplished so that they know exactly what needs to be done.

Make it as easy for them as you can. Give them simple tasks to start with so they can get a quick “win.” This will encourage their participation. Give them the tools or training they need to be successful. Make sure they have a fact sheet about your organization and that they know a story or two that they can tell. Bring in a trainer to teach them how to talk about your organization and how to ask for a gift.

Ask them to volunteer on your front line so that they can experience first-hand the work your organization does. This will give them their own personal story to share when they are talking with donors and prospects. Help them find where they fit in. For those who don’t want to do direct Asks, ask them to make Thank You calls to donors. Or ask them to host dinner parties in their home to share with their friends about the good work your organization is doing.

And don’t forget to celebrate successes with them! Positive reinforcement will help shore up their new skills and build the confidence they need to participate in fundraising again!