The Truth About Donor (and Fundraising) Fatigue

As a 4-year ovarian cancer survivor, I’ve helped raise thousands of dollars in support of various cancer-related campaigns and organizations. Whether for World Ovarian Cancer Day on May 8th, National Ovarian Cancer Month all throughout September, or in honor of a “cancerversary” (milestones such as one’s diagnosis day and/or last day of treatment), there always seems be an opportunity to advocate and fundraise for ovarian cancer research, treatment, and awareness, as well as in support of individual patients.

But, over time, it becomes much more difficult to simultaneously fundraise and donate, from both the fundraiser’s and donor’s standpoint. At the end of the day, too much fundraising can eventually lead to burnout for both parties.

What is donor fatigue?

Donor fatigue refers to the unwillingness of people to give charitably again because they feel tapped out by repeated requests. Each time donors are approached with requests for funding, they can become increasingly overwhelmed, and perhaps even desensitized to the needs of a particular organization, cause, campaign, or individual, in some cases.

Our friends and family might justify no longer donating, thinking, “We donated to their campaign last year.” Or perhaps they will chalk it up to the fact that you’re in remission or that you no longer have evidence of the disease (NED status), assuming, “Well, they seem to be doing better these days.” But, as every cancer patient knows, the “cancer journey” is never-ending. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

Regardless, does that mean your family and friends need to keep giving, too? Expecting loved ones to consistently donate can be unfair and unrealistic. As a frequent campaigner, I often have to remind myself not to take their lack of support or reduced participation personally. But, admittedly, I have also experienced a sense of burnout myself.

Does fundraising fatigue exist, too?

Fundraising fatigue is not officially defined, or as commonly discussed as donor fatigue, but it is just as real. I personally feel that fundraising fatigue occurs as a result of donor fatigue. Advocates, like myself, can become discouraged by the lack of interest and funds that a particular campaign receives, or we might simply observe a general decline in donors over time, which can make maintaining or increasing fundraising goals difficult.

At the same time, it becomes exhausting to repeatedly pitch to a similar audience seeking out a similar goal, one that typically requires some form of financial support. It can be difficult to feel inspired or get creative with new fundraising pitches. The fact that fundraising for ovarian cancer often focuses on those we have lost can be a factor as well. It can be extremely triggering for patients who are still alive and fighting it and their loved ones.

Stepping back is okay

While it’s important to reassure yourself that donor fatigue is nothing to take personally, it’s equally vital to know that it’s okay to take a step back from advocacy and fundraising whenever some distance is needed.

There’s no need to put unrealistic expectations on others and there’s also no need to place unnecessary pressure on yourself. At the end of the day, any bit of fundraising and awareness helps, no matter how frequent or infrequent, nor how big or small the amount raised. And most importantly (and this is especially true for cancer patients) our own health and personal matters must always come first.