Federal Way workshop urges nonprofits to diversify donors and prioritize stewardship

At a Federal Way fundraising workshop, Linda K. Bridal, founder of the Briggs Group, outlined best-practice steps nonprofits can use to diversify revenue and retain donors, emphasizing donor research, a “silent phase” for top supporters and ongoing stewardship.

Bridal told attendees that fundraising succeeds when organizations identify likely prospects, provide clear information about needs and impact, cultivate interest and involvement, and then ask at the right time. “The only reason people don't give is because we don't ask them,” Bridal said. She also warned against treating supporters like “an ATM machine,” urging deeper relationship-building instead.

Bridal presented a giving “pyramid” she used in campaigns, in which the board, executive leadership and long-term major donors are asked first in a silent phase before any public appeal. She said public…