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.