Leveraging Board and Volunteer Support in Major Donor Cultivation

Board members and volunteers are often underutilized assets in major donor cultivation, despite their capacity to extend networks, build credibility, and strengthen relationships. This article examines strategies for mobilizing these stakeholders, including training, role clarity, donor committees, and recognition mechanisms. Drawing on examples from Cancer Research UK, The Nature Conservancy, Habitat for Humanity, Feeding America, United Way Worldwide, and Save the Children, it demonstrates how structured involvement amplifies donor reach and retention. The findings argue that embedding board and volunteer support within fundraising strategies not only enhances gift acquisition but also reinforces organizational sustainability.