Grant Research And Fundraising Strategy

We are seeking a skilled volunteer to assist with the following fundraising and grant-related tasks:

Project Description:

Flaming for Jesus (FFJ) is a small but growing non-profit organization dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced religious trauma. Our core program, the Rise Above Community, provides vital peer support groups, community events, and transformative workshops. We are currently operating with limited funding and a single staff member, making it challenging to dedicate the necessary time to fundraising and grant development. We need a strategic approach to ensure our long-term sustainability and expand our reach.

Specific Tasks for the Volunteer:
Grant Research and Pipeline Development (2-3 weeks):
Conduct thorough research to identify potential grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, and government agencies that align with FFJ's mission and programs.
Create a prioritized grant pipeline, including funder names, deadlines, eligibility requirements, and funding amounts.
Develop a system for tracking grant applications and deadlines.
Fundraising Strategy Development (3-4 weeks):
Assess our current fundraising efforts and identify areas for improvement.
Develop a comprehensive fundraising plan that includes strategies for individual giving, major donor cultivation, and potential corporate partnerships.
Create templates for donor communication and acknowledgments.
Help develop a system to track donor interactions.
Grant Writing Assistance (Optional, if time allows):
Provide guidance and support in drafting grant proposals.
Review and edit existing grant materials for clarity and persuasiveness.
Develop a fundraising calendar:
Create an annual calendar of fundraising and grant application deadlines.

Desired Volunteer Skills:
Proven experience in non-profit fundraising and grant writing.
Strong research and analytical skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge of grant databases and fundraising best practices.
Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
Passion for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice.

Expected Outcomes:
A prioritized grant pipeline and tracking system.
A comprehensive fundraising plan with actionable strategies.
Improved grant writing skills and materials.
A fundraising calendar.
Increased capacity to secure funding for FFJ's programs.

Time Commitment:
We anticipate the volunteer will dedicate 2-5 hours per week for 6-8 weeks, with flexibility to adjust based on the volunteer's availability and progress.

Make a Real Difference: Empower LGBTQ+ Lives with Your Fundraising Expertise!

Are you passionate about LGBTQ+ rights and making a tangible impact on mental health? Do you have a knack for fundraising and grant writing? Join Flaming for Jesus (FFJ) and play a pivotal role in empowering our Rise Above Community!

Imagine this: Your expertise will directly fuel the growth of our life-changing programs. You'll help us secure the funds to provide safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals recovering from religious trauma—spaces where they find healing, build resilience, and discover their authentic selves.

Here's how your contributions will impact lives:

Fuel Healing Journeys: Your grant writing skills will unlock funding for peer support groups, where individuals find solace and understanding.
Build a Stronger Community: Your fundraising strategies will enable us to host vibrant community events, fostering connection and reducing isolation.
Expand Access to Support: You'll help us reach underserved LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring they have access to vital resources and support.
Create Lasting Change: Your work will contribute to a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are fully affirmed and empowered to thrive.
Your time and talents will directly translate into real-world impact. You'll be part of a movement that's dismantling the harmful effects of religious discrimination and building a more inclusive and supportive world.

Join us and become a catalyst for change! Your expertise will empower us to empower others. Together, we can create a brighter future for the LGBTQ+ community.

To ensure the success of this fundraising and grant development project with a Taproot volunteer, I will implement the following strategies:
1. Clear Communication and Expectations:
Initial Meeting: A thorough introductory meeting to discuss the project goals, scope, timeline, and expectations.
Regular Check-ins: Schedule consistent weekly or bi-weekly check-ins to monitor progress, address questions, and provide feedback.
Open Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels (e.g., email, video calls) and respond promptly to the volunteer's inquiries.
2. Providing Necessary Resources and Information:
Access to Existing Materials: Share all relevant organizational documents, including mission statements, program descriptions, financial reports, past grant proposals (if available), and website content.
Access to Databases: Provide access to any relevant databases or online resources for grant research.
Organizational Context: Give the volunteer a thorough understanding of FFJ's mission, programs, and target audience.
3. Flexibility and Adaptability:
Adjust to the Volunteer's Schedule: Be flexible and accommodating to the volunteer's availability and schedule.
Adapt to Changing Needs: Be prepared to adjust the project scope or timeline as needed.
Open to New Ideas: Be open to the volunteer's suggestions and ideas.
4. Collaborative and Supportive Environment:
Value the Volunteer's Expertise: Recognize and appreciate the volunteer's skills and experience.
Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer timely and constructive feedback to help the volunteer improve their work.
Encourage Questions and Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment where the volunteer feels comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas.