Fundraising and Recruiting: They really do have a lot of similarities!

As I first read the title of this article, I was intrigued on how the authors were going to discuss the similarities of fundraising and recruiting.  I never really associated the two as having many connections with each other until I read this article.  The first similarity, “Pool of Prospects”, is probably the most obvious connection that is so apparent it can easily be over looked.  Fundraising is almost recruiting in itself.  Many types of fundraising require some sort of recruiting, whether it is recruiting volunteers to help or people to participate in the fundraising.  Just like high school players are potential prospects to recruit, every individual in the world is a potential prospect to be part of the fundraising experience.  Another similarity just as obvious as this one is comes down to communication.  Both fundraising and recruiting require a great deal of communication.  Communication can occur through e-mail, telephone, face-to-face or mail.  Coaches communicate with prospect athletes just as coaches should communicate with potential fundraising volunteers or participants.  Communication is important in both aspects.  Communicating is a way to show the prospects that they are wanted, valued, and important to the task ahead.  This is true in both recruiting and fundraising.     

Also, I found it interesting how the authors associated fundraising and recruiting through prospect qualifications.  The qualifications for recruits may be different than those you look for in a fundraising prospect, but the idea that both prospects need to possess certain qualities or qualification relates the two ideas.  These qualities or qualifications make certain that the recruit can impact the program just like the fundraising prospect can impact the fundraising event any way possible and in a positive manner.                    

Lastly, I would like to comment on the everlasting relationship that can come from recruiting and fundraising.  Through recruiting, coaches can form relationships with athletes, other coaches, and parents.  These relationships sometimes can carry on for many years and can benefit all parties involved.  This goes the same for those who are involved in fundraising.  Not only do the coaches and the program benefit from donors and fundraising, but those donating and volunteering also can benefit from the experience.  Through fundraising, many relationships are formed and built, and these relationships can last a long time while benefitting everyone.