How would you rate your ability to build better relationships with donors? Do you know them personally? Do they take your calls? Have you met them face to face or virtually? Do they respond to your emails, notes, and communications? Do you know what brought them to your organization and how they first became involved? What part of your work do they feel most passionate about?

Donors are essential to our nonprofit organizations. Without them, our organizations would not exist. When donors give, they place their trust in us and expect us to work towards achieving agreed-upon outcomes. The least we can do is acknowledge their donation promptly and provide assurance we will use that gift as they intend. What we need to focus on is how to create a donor stewardship plan and develop gift acknowledgements that make the donor feel valued.

Asking for a donation can be a challenging task. We often make it harder on ourselves by creating fears in our mind that limit us and our success. If you want to be a successful leader and fundraiser, you have to overcome fear of asking for a donation and help others overcome their fear.

This image created by Duke University popped up on my Facebook memories from one year ago. Who knew in December 2019 that 2020 would unfold the way it did?

This image really speaks to me. It highlights the 8 Factors of Happiness and creating a positive mindset, including not living in the past, not wasting time and energy fighting things you cannot change, and not expecting too much from yourself. What great things to keep in mind as we head into the holiday season and prepare for the unknown of 2021.

How do you start a planned giving conversation with a longtime donor?

As fundraisers, we work hard to improve our relationships with donors. With a donor who has a history of giving to our organization over several years, we may want to start a planned giving conversation about types of gifts that our donors may not have considered.

You probably have enthusiastic supporters and longtime donors who want to further your mission and make a positive impact on the clients you serve. However, they may want to give something other than cash. There are many types of noncash charitable gifts your donors should consider.

I’m always looking for ways to start my development day and improve my effectiveness at work, to be more organized, and to be disciplined about using my time. If you have similar goals, here are some tips to start your development day and avoid pitfalls that slow you down.

Your culture of philanthropy is your organization’s values and attitudes about philanthropy and fundraising, and the activities that flow from them. How does fundraising rank in your organization compared to program activities? Do your board members and staff see fundraising as an equal and important part of your organization, or as a difficult task that no one enjoys?