Fundraising in the Nonprofit Disability and Mental Health Sector

Nonprofits often focus on fundraising to diversify income, pursue the development of innovative services, or to address unmet needs. This needs organisational leaders to understand how to raise funds ethically, developing a culture of philanthropy and a ‘foundation of credibility’, on which successful fundraising relies. Drawing on the experience of others, this chapter provides practical insights into how leaders can conceptualise and pursue fundraising activities. Reflecting on the highly successful approach in higher education, called Advancement, the chapter outlines significant potential for nonprofits leaders to reflect on and communicate the original intentions of the founders, and engage effectively with donors, clear about how the partnership with them can deliver value and impact to both donors and the organisation. The receipt of government funding, if it arrives, is usually targeted to specific programs and does not necessarily cover all of the presenting needs of service users, and can expose the nonprofit to the risk that it becomes too reliant on government funding, which can change at any moment. This chapter helps leaders to manage that risk whilst delivering high-quality services consistent with their organisational mission.