Year-End Fundraising: Managing Risk When the Stakes Are High

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As the year wraps up, many nonprofits shift into high gear. Donations pick up, events get planned, and everyone is focused on meeting those final goals. It is an exciting time, but also one that can feel a little chaotic. With so much happening, it is easy to forget one simple truth: your organization still needs to stay protected.

Fundraising is not only about reaching supporters and collecting gifts. It is also about preparation. The more people, partners, and platforms involved, the more chances there are for something to go wrong. A little risk management can make all the difference.

1. When Hosting Events, Think Beyond the Guest List

Big fundraising events bring people together, but they can also bring potential problems. Maybe someone trips and falls, a rental item breaks, or a guest drinks too much. Even with careful planning, accidents can happen.

Before the event, make sure your special event insurance is active and updated. Ask the venue to list your nonprofit as an additional insured on their policy. Check that vendors like caterers, bartenders, and equipment companies have their own coverage. A quick review before the event can save time, money, and stress later on.

2. Keep Online Campaigns Safe and Secure

Year-end giving often happens online now. It is fast, convenient, and a great way to reach donors everywhere. But it also makes nonprofits more visible to cybercriminals. Scams, fake donation pages, and data breaches are becoming more common every year.

Use a secure donation platform, make sure your website has HTTPS, and set up multi-factor authentication for logins. Protecting donor information should always be part of your campaign plan. If your organization handles a large amount of online giving, cyber liability insurance can help cover the cost of a breach or other digital attack.

3. Set Volunteers Up for Success

Extra hands can make the season run smoothly, but volunteers need structure and guidance. Make sure everyone knows their role, who to report to, and what to do if something unexpected happens. Even a short safety talk or printed checklist can make a big difference.

Double-check that you have volunteer accident coverage and non-owned auto coverage if volunteers are driving their own cars for your organization. These details are often overlooked but can protect both your volunteers and your nonprofit.

4. Watch the Details in Your Messaging

When the fundraising push is in full swing, your team might be sending dozens of emails, posts, and letters. In the rush, small mistakes can slip through. A wrong number, an outdated claim, or a missing disclaimer can cause confusion or even compliance issues.

Take a moment to slow down before launching a big message or campaign. Make sure everything is clear, accurate, and transparent. Your donors will appreciate the honesty, and it will strengthen their trust in your organization.

5. Review Your Coverage Before the Campaign Starts

Even if you are not planning a large event, reviewing your insurance before the year-end rush is always worth it. Ask yourself a few questions: Has your staff grown? Have you added new programs or software? Are you working with new vendors? Coverage that worked a few months ago might not fit anymore.

A short call with your insurance broker can help you spot any gaps and make adjustments. It is one of the simplest ways to protect your nonprofit as you prepare for a busy fundraising season.

The Takeaway

Year-end fundraising is an exciting and meaningful time for nonprofits, but it also comes with unique risks. Protecting your team, your donors, and your mission helps ensure that your efforts make the biggest possible impact.

If you would like to review your current coverage or discuss your next big campaign, CalNonprofits Insurance Services can help. Our team understands the challenges nonprofits face and is here to make sure you are protected every step of the way.

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