53_GAPandcodes

When an organization creates a Gift Acceptance Policy (GAP) it outlines the types of gifts that it will, and won’t, accept. This policy is often written down and stored in a company handbook or provided internally for volunteers and employees to use. And yet, when a gift gets entered into FundRaiser, are you able to follow up on it through reporting to see how certain gifts are contributing to your organization’s bottom line?

The best way to do this is through the use of gift codes. The MOTIVATION and PURPOSE codes will document what inspired your donors to give and what the gift will be used for. Those who have FundRaiser Professional may find using the PERIOD or MISC codes will help them track other aspects of the GAP.

To modify your codes and perhaps bring them into line with your GAP, go to VIEW > CODES to bring up the Codes Maintenance Window. From here, you can mark codes as inactive, merge them, edit them, and even add new ones. The Code Listing Report on the Reports menu will allow you to print out your codes to better see and manage them. Having your codes in line with your GAP will allow you to efficiently run reports to determine the types of gifts you’re receiving.

When you’re ready to run reports, the advanced tab will allow you to filter reports by code, both individually and in combination using formulas. This will help your organization to see how each part of your GAP is performing.

For most organizations, the gifts you’ll receive will come in some monetary form. In-kind donations are usually very specific and related to a certain event or purpose. If your organization has a legacy giving program, those donations are also very specific and coded accordingly. So for the most part, your GAP will likely be fairly straight forward. However, if you do have a unique gift offered to your organization and you’re uncertain how it fits into your GAP, a look at your coding may provide some insights.

To learn more about how FundRaiser codes can help you track your gifts, register for a tour or if you are already a FundRaiser user, contact FundRaiser Technical Support at Support@FundRaiserSoftware.com or 800-543-4131.