Articles and Insights from the FIT Fundraising Team
I sat with another precious family today. I’ve met with more than 100 supporters over the last 12 months. I asked them if they knew how many consecutive years they'd been giving. They shook their heads no. I told them "27 years... thank you. You are so special to us!"...
Most nonprofits, like Sweet Briar, do not consider the fact that capital campaigns can hurt your annual fund and general operating budget, especially if annual fund donors are being targeted for a large percentage of the capital gifts. With nearly $200 million raised in Sweet Briar’s case, they learned the hard way that capital campaign donors will rarely give “twice” or release “restrictions” to pay for overhead and operations.
If you cannot change the people you are around… change the people you are around. Sure, it sounds easy, but it is the toughest part of integrating new technology. Some people just will not be able to change or grow.
Does your charity have a FUNDRAISING STRATEGY? I am often surprised talking to nonprofits at how many fundraisers are just begging without any real plan. One thing is for certain, I didn’t get into this business just to be a beggar. Your charity needs a fundraising...
It has been a unique week. Meeting with development professionals is always filled with surprises, but I have to tell you I was floored with the number of development pros trying to do it on their own. I met not one, not two, but three development directors who were...
Now is the time to let your supporters know how much you appreciate them. February 12 has been named nationwide on social media as Donor Love Day (#donorlove on Twitter).
I have sat down this year, face to face and personally interviewed 117 major donors. People with hearts that are so unique. People whose careers and businesses are not about amassing wealth. People who believe their purpose for living is giving. They have dedicated homes, careers and businesses to alleviate suffering, helping the homeless, feeding the hungry and providing clean, cool water to those who thirst.
…a remarkable difference in income occurs by meeting with your financial partners… I personally met with 117 families over the last 12 months. Thanked them for their support. Listend to why they give and then tailored and “ask” based upon their desires, not mine.
great major gift fundraisers understand that those writing the checks are ultimately their business partners.
Donors move up the ladder from one year to the next as you ask for more and demonstrate that you have been a good steward with their previous gifts.
