Category Archives: Fundraising
How To Stand Out From Other Fundraising Organizations
I counted. I received 85 mail solicitations in 40 days. Six were from the same organization. Some I had already sent a check to, but they asked again, within days. I did write checks for about ten new requests, but not with anything remotely resembling a significant gift. I guessed that most organizations had spent at least $500 on their respective mail campaigns. Money well spent? I wondered. Read More
Fundraising Myth #3: It’s a competition
One of my least favorite images of fundraisers is that of the Lone Ranger, swooping in on his horse to heroically seize the day. But, hey, what about Tonto? Fundraising is not just the person who makes the ask, whoever that may be. It requires a team of people with special talents, united by a common purpose, and recognized and appreciated for their contributions. It might be nice if it was easier, but it’s not. And, in fact, being part of a collaborative team is one of my favorite things about fundraising. Read More
Fundraising Myth #2: It’s All About You and Your Institution
Fundraising Myth #2: It’s All About You and Your Institution. This one will generally elicit one of two reactions: (1) “Huh?” and (2) “Of course not!” Let’s deal with each, in turn. The “Huh?” reaction is often from fundraisers who are so passionate about their mission that they can’t understand why anyone might be – well – less than excited. They may see “donors” as one great undifferentiated blob. The fact is that donors come in all shapes and sizes, with different interests and their own set of giving priorities. Read More
Fundraising Myth #1: You’re begging
“How can you do fundraising? It’s so unpleasant.” I’ve been asked that question many times. Many nonprofit volunteers and directors say they hate asking people – especially their peers – for money. They feel like they’re in unfamiliar, even hostile territory. And for some people, asking for money feels like begging, and no one wants to be a beggar. Read More
The truth about myths… and the myth about truths
This fall, I and my Getting to Giving colleagues were invited to put on a seminar about fundraising for Harvard Business School alumni. We began developing what we hoped would be an inspiring and value-added daylong seminar for people who were very involved in philanthropy, in one capacity or another. The response to the seminar invitation was encouraging, and some alumni brought along directors of nonprofit organizations they supported. Read More