Fundraising involves rejection. That’s just the way it is. But, you’re not going to find the right partners and funders unless you are busy talking with people, exploring areas of mutual interest, and submitting documents that communicate the work of your organization. And, with every submission comes the possibility of rejection. Connecting with an individual
Fundraising is a community endeavor, and our communities include the politicians who are elected to represent us at all levels. Current, former and prospective elected leaders are often involved in fundraising, providing great value. At the same time there are challenges related to engaging politicians as fundraising volunteers. With this column we discuss the pros
Leadership is more than a job. It’s an expression of your commitment to an organization, a cause, or an institution. People know when they meet you whether you are going through the motions, or living the mission and vision of the nonprofit you represent. Some leaders have charisma, that ability to engage others. They reach
Creating a culture of fundraising Part two of a three-part series Fundraising is the process of attracting people and resources. Yes, it’s about raising money. But it’s also about “how” you raise money. We believe that fundraising should be infused into all aspects of an organization’s culture. It needs to be a shared responsibility that
Are you brave enough to have an open and honest conversation about your organization’s fundraising? Are you willing to step out from behind your role as executive director and have an honest talk with your board chair? Are you willing to talk with him – or her – about what’s working and not working? Can
If your story isn’t real, how can the funds you raise make a difference? Success is what nonprofits are supposed to project. Increased impact. New audiences, more people served, policies changed… Everything is rosy. But what if it isn’t? What if our “successes” blind us to what isn’t working? We might tell a good story,
Fall is in the air. Time for football, warm sweaters, and the approach of the holidays. For those involved in fundraising it is also time to focus on the year-end campaign. There are direct mail letters to write, holiday events to host, and on-line giving campaigns to launch and manage. There is also the process
As I watched the grand opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture on television I was filled with excitement and emotion. I was excited about this historic moment, and what it means for the African American community and the nation. I thought of my great grandfather William Harrison Hammond, an ex-slave
Are you effectively using the resources available to you? Are your programs making an impact? Do you try new ideas? Have you explored the “two-generation” to addressing poverty? Do you understand poverty as a “condition” – similar to a medical condition – that has a standard of care? We recently had the opportunity to learn
Fear, ego, time and misinformation can keep you from asking for the gifts your organization needs. Don’t make these four mistakes. We are entering the giving season. Many readers will focus on Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza and the New Year. Here at FUNdraising Good Times we are focused on giving to nonprofits. Like children who
