Ambassador Network Kick-Off Kit

For fundraisers ready to extend their reach, invite generosity, and build a joyful circle of community champions—who ask from love, not obligation.

The Story: What Simone Joyaux Taught Me

Years ago, I heard the late, great Simone Joyaux speak about building an ambassador network. She had fire in her voice and truth in her bones.

Standing before a room full of fundraisers, she said something I’ll never forget:

“You’re not supposed to do it all. Your job isn’t to carry the cause on your back—it’s to build a fire, and invite others to bring wood.”

Simone reminded us that fundraisers are leaders, not labourers. That our job is to mobilise community, not hoard the work. She believed in dignity, in boldness, and in the power of everyday people to ask—not just for money, but for change.

That wisdom echoed through me when I found myself running a major campaign with far too much on my plate. The board was supportive, but maxed out. My capacity was stretched thin.

So I did what Simone would’ve advised. I invited others in. Not to sit on a committee or rubber-stamp plans—but to act.

I reached out to long-time donors, past board members, and passionate volunteers and said:

“Would you be willing to help us grow this work—by sharing why you care, making some connections, and, yes, asking others to join us?”

They said yes. And the result?

  • New donors who gave because they trusted their friend.

  • Gatherings where people heard stories that stirred them.

  • Ambassadors who felt proud, useful, and part of something alive.

And I felt less alone. More supported. And strangely, more effective—because I wasn’t holding it all myself anymore.

That was Simone’s gift to all of us: she called us to be bold and to share the load.

What Is an Ambassador Network?

A group of trusted, passionate supporters who:

  • Advocate for your cause

  • Build new relationships

  • Make warm, values-based asks

  • Strengthen your organisation’s reach—and spirit

They’re not staff. They’re not passive donors.

They’re generous agents of change who extend your voice, vision, and values into the world.

How to Launch One: Start Simple, Start Human

1. The Personal Invite

Phone or email script:

“You’ve always been someone who really gets this work. We’re inviting a few people to become Ambassadors—helping us connect with new supporters, share the story, and even ask for support when it feels right. I think you’d be brilliant at it. Want to chat?”

2. The First Gathering

No PowerPoint. Just presence.

Bring tea, stories, purpose, and a pen.

Agenda:

  • Welcome + share the vision

  • A story that shows why this work matters

  • Invite ambassadors to reflect: “What made me say yes?”

  • Share 3–4 ways they can help

  • Leave with warmth, clarity, and a plan

Ambassador Roles (And Yes, They Can Ask)

The Storyteller - Shares their “why I give” in campaigns, letters, or online

The Host - Brings people together—tea in the garden, a Zoom, a picnic

The Connector - Introduces you to someone aligned and curious

The Asker - Makes 1–3 values-aligned asks to people they know and trust

The Gratitude Giver - Sends thank-you messages or small gifts to recent donors

Let them choose based on strengths. All roles are valuable. Asking isn’t the only magic—but it’s one of the boldest gifts they can offer.

Helpful Tools to Give Your Ambassadors

  • “Why I Care” reflection sheet

  • Sample ask emails + invite scripts

  • Talking points for events

  • Your calendar of key fundraising moments

  • A dedicated staff contact to support them

Final Thought for Fundraisers

You are not alone.

Your job is not to do more. Your job is to build the fire—and invite others to bring the wood.

This ambassador network is not another task. It’s your team.

It’s your community-in-waiting. It’s how your story will spread, your mission will grow, and your work will feel less heavy—and more alive.

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