Who are the people your nonprofit organization serves? What can they do to help? They may be homeless or feel hopeless. They may be so overwhelmed that they do not see a need to participate in developing the resources needed to serve them. Nevertheless, they need to get involved.

       It will take a lot of effort on your part to organize a structure that can take advantage of the things your constituents can do to help. But, as they pay part or all of the cost of the services you provide to them, you will have the funds you need and they will strengthen their lives.

       Now is the time to think about the difference between giving a fish and teaching to fish. By involving your constituents in creating the resources needed, you do much more than just raise funds. If I fold fliers for a mailing or make calls to raise funds, I begin to get a glimpse of what it takes to provide the services I receive. But there is a much deeper meaning to getting your constituents involved.