S1:E8 | How to Build a Disaster Response Fundraising Program

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• The 21-Day Digital Fundraising Startup Course
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• JeremyHaselwood.com
  Visit for tools, templates, and resources to help your nonprofit prepare for disaster fundraising and more.

Episode Summary:

Disasters aren’t a matter of if but when. In this episode, Jeremy provides a comprehensive guide for nonprofits to build a disaster response fundraising program. Drawing from his experiences growing up in tornado-prone Oklahoma and working with nonprofits during times of crisis, Jeremy shares a step-by-step framework to prepare, execute, and follow up on fundraising efforts during disasters. Learn how to create a proactive plan that ensures your organization is ready to serve your community when they need it most.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Importance of Preparedness:

   • Disasters demand immediate response. Being prepared with fundraising strategies saves time and maximizes impact during critical moments.
   • Proactive planning creates stability and ensures peace of mind amidst the chaos.

2. The Three Phases of Disaster Response:

   • Before the Disaster: Plan ahead with SWOT analysis, creative assets, and audience building through email and SMS acquisition.
   • During the Disaster: Deploy prepared assets, activate “war room” operations, and execute fundraising campaigns with speed and precision.
   • After the Disaster: Follow up with donors, update stakeholders, and share the impact of their contributions to maintain transparency and trust.

3. Creative Assets to Prepare:

   • Email series (3-7 versions per disaster type).
   • Pre-designed social media posts, website banners, and campaign donation pages.
   • Disaster-specific ad kits for platforms like Facebook and Google.
   • A “report back” landing page for ongoing updates post-disaster.

4. Engaging Donors Year-Round:

   • Build your email and SMS lists consistently with value-driven content like disaster preparedness tips.
   • Create a disaster donor welcome series to nurture new supporters and keep them engaged.

5. Maintaining Sensitivity:

   • Craft messaging that is empathetic to donors who may also be affected by the disaster.
   • Encourage support without being opportunistic or tone-deaf during crises.

Notable Quotes:

• “Disaster fundraising isn’t about being opportunistic; it’s about being prepared to meet urgent needs when they arise.”
• “Preparation today ensures your nonprofit can make a greater impact tomorrow.”