When I work with nonprofits that want to improve their fundraising strategies, I talk frequently about the donor journey — The path someone takes to become an engaged, passionate donor for your nonprofit. The final step in the donor journey is “leveling up” your donors.

Last week, I published an article about new donors and how they typically make their first gift to a nonprofit after a friend, family member, or colleague asks them to support the organization. If most new donors find your nonprofit through a friend, family member, or colleague, it seems like you need to empower those connectors to share your mission… But how do you do that? Enter the Friend-Raiser.

There are infinite articles, videos, and podcast episodes about how to attract new donors to your nonprofit. (In fact, I released a podcast episode on this very topic and it was very fun to make!) But do you know why people are motivated to give their first gift to a nonprofit they’ve just learned about? Understanding the mindset of new donors can help your nonprofit attract new supporters.