What motivates people to give to charitable causes, and how can you increase donations?

Personal values are indeed one of the strongest motivators, and conveying the impact of the mission to prospective donors is key to helping them tap into those values. However, that is only the tip of the iceberg. The board and staff need to ensure high levels of accountability and transparency as well. This enables donors to feel that their contribution will be well spent.

Even more important than communicating the mission , vision and values of our organizations (which is VERY important) is the ability to HEAR the values of the donors we are with. Understanding the core emotions and priorities that guide their life will help us correctly connect them to meaningful work we can do together.

According to my experience helping many NGO's to increase their social base and the amount of donations and per donation it's very important the engagement with every person of that social base. The more identified that a member of the NGO feel with the values, mission and vision the more will be willing to increase her/his participation. So, in my opinion, the ability to comunicate in an effective way and transmit the values is key to improve results. And for that, it's neccesary to know in deep every member, every donor and comunicate in a personal way tailored to her/his interests and capabilities.

Family connections to philanthropy are an important aspect in giving. Many people have seen their parents, and their families engage in giving and perhaps it has been an important part of their lives since they were young. This can be a huge motivation to give back for an individual.

It's the duty of a species to help each other by all means, at all costs. No one ever became poor from giving, remind them of their natural virtuous duty.

What the expectations are in business, family circles and social circles with philanthropy can absolutely be a huge driver to the success of raising funds for a cause. I like to think of it as "Giving Gamified" as when we have opportunities to support, especially the in-person events to raise funds and unite humans for the cause, and when it is done really well (many are not) you bring Servant-Leaders together, who tell others like them to join in. They break bread, lift a glass, laugh and relax, build stronger professional and personal bonds, and give back to a cause they love. That is a perfect experience.

Certainly, social norms play a significant role in shaping giving behaviors. It's fascinating how individuals are influenced by the actions and expectations of their social circles. Creating a sense of belonging and community among donors is a powerful strategy, emphasizing the collective impact of their contributions. Recognizing and appreciating their involvement enhances this sense of belonging. Moreover, utilizing social proof through ratings, reviews, endorsements, or testimonials adds credibility and reinforces the popularity of a cause, further encouraging individuals to join in and contribute to a shared purpose.This interplay of social dynamics underscores the importance of community and shared values in the philanthropic landscape

Having completed several philanthropic-based adventure events I find the greatest motivator for donations is when potential donors can pass comment on the proposed event. They may find it "way above their level" and comment, or they may have undertaken something similar and wish to align. The supported cause must, must also be recognisable and worthy as defined by donors...Showing vulnerability and a risk of failure is also motivating as it creates tension for donors to follow - this of course has to be authentic

It is important to share the effects of social norms on philanthropy with your lead and quiet phase donors. We must always remind them that they are creating the social norm by making that first gift. They will be the spark that starts a movement that will go far beyond our previous expectations.

Donors give to charities who are doing things they wish they could do. They exchange resources for the good feeling that comes from knowing they have accomplished something important to them.

We meet with those we support, the imagery, the words and those in need are real. I would recommend anyone seeking to engage in philanthropic support to not do it at arm's length...meet those you are seeking to support. Your potential sponsors will engage further, you will enjoy it and those that benefit become 'real'.

Absolutely, the power of emotional connections in driving charitable giving cannot be overstated. When individuals feel a personal connection or empathy towards a cause, beneficiaries, or organization, it creates a profound motivation to contribute. Using emotional triggers like stories, images, and videos helps elicit positive or negative feelings, deepening the emotional bond between donors and the cause. Personalization, such as addressing donors by name and expressing gratitude individually, further enhances this connection, making donors feel special and appreciated. This emotional dimension not only drives immediate donations but also fosters a lasting and meaningful relationship between donors and the cause they support.

Emotions are front and center. The decision to make a philanthropic investment always begins in the heart and is refined in the head.

2 Things Trust & Gratitude. All is else is built on those two emotions, you may get a gift with one or the other, but if both are lacking....

In the almost forty years of being in this business and having raised over $700M, I have never encountered a donor who gave to get a deduction. The studies routine show that getting a deduction is down around 20 or 21 in the list of motivators. If the donor is eligible (and with the recent tax law changes far few persons are) it can affect the timing but not the decision to give.

Often the most generous individuals uses the standard deduction and their gifts are definitely not for a tax deduction. Everything comes from the mission People will give what they have it you can relate the mission to their heart.

Indeed, the influence of tax benefits on charitable giving is a crucial aspect. Highlighting the potential tax deductions, credits, or exemptions associated with donations can be a compelling factor for many individuals. Providing clear information and necessary documentation helps donors make informed decisions. Incentives like matching gifts, gift cards, or prizes can further motivate donors to contribute generously. Recognizing that different donors have varied motivations underscores the importance of tailoring appeals to resonate with diverse interests. Balancing the rational aspect, like tax benefits, with emotional connections ensures a comprehensive approach that strengthens the connection between donors and the causes they support.

Avoid 'virtue signalling' events... giving time to philanthropic endeavours is not for everyone. You may be a good donor for others, and this is equally valuable.