8. Communication for Local Fundraising

We know how as organizations we struggle to put ideas on paper while preparing proposals. We also try to present our organizational work in the most attractive manner through publicity material. We also try to present all these ideas in a relatively foreign language, which is usually English and which is one of the most accepted languages for donor agencies across the world. But many native speakers have problems in writing or expressing themselves in English. In fact, in many developing countries, NGOs fail to reach the right donor in spite of their best endeavors because they are unfamiliar with the language. Some end up hiring expensive consultants to translate the ideas into the English language and present it to donors. A substantial part of our effort goes towards the struggle to express in this language. But thought this is important, we emphasize less upon local language communication. This is a critical part that we need to notice if we are engaging n local fundraising in our own country. There may be local businesses and local individuals, who are willing to donate, but if they are unaware about the activities of the organization, then they cannot really help anyone. In order to mobilize local resources, it is important to develop the organizational communication material in the local language. Apart from developing the communication material, there is also the need to interact with them and inform them about the work that is being carried out. Interactions can be held through member-based associations, forums, youth clubs promoted at the local-level.