“A person is a person through other persons” Ubuntu, an African proverb.

Reflection question:

• Where do you already see the web of connection around your organization?

Reflection on generosity:

 As a blessing or curse, people are more connected in a rural area. This month, we are starting a four-week series on the connectivity of small towns and its impact on capital campaigns. By connectivity, I mean the web of relationships that tie a community together. Now, let's be honest. We know that small town gossip and nosy neighbors are real. Anonymity is rare, news travels fast. And the blessings are real. There is a deep sense of belonging and togetherness because we know our neighbors. And there is often a culture of neighbors helping neighbors before relying on more formal institutions. Friendships can form over decades and at times, generations. 

In a small town, we identify with each other, and we identify with our responsibilities to one another. Further, we are connected in multiple ways. Think of it as a form of six degrees of Kevin Bacon. And if you don't know the reference, look it up. In the case of a rural area, it's six degrees of connection. That is, a person can find multiple ways they are connected to other people in the town. A board member is also a neighbor to a program staff member and perhaps was also the kindergarten classmate to the largest donor in town. 

This connectivity has a positive impact on capital campaigns. The capital need in the community may already be known. Volunteers with the right expertise are easier to find, and a request to help is usually a favor asked by a friend. Donors are often connected through several volunteers or staff, and people often give because someone they trust asked them. So when we wonder if a campaign can succeed, there's something to keep in mind. Connection isn't something we have to build. It is already woven into our communities. Now, of course, that same closeness that makes asking easier can also make asking feel risky, which we will explore in two weeks. Over the next few weeks, we'll look at a story of connection in action during a capital campaign, the challenges connectivity presents with real examples, and how to make the most of the strength of connectivity in your town.

What do you think? Send me a text.

To explore small town capital campaign coaching deeper and to schedule an free explore coaching call, visit ServingNonprofits.com.

Music credit: Woeisuhmebop