Not a big expensive study. A disciplined way to prove what’s true. When nonprofits hear the term feasibility study, many picture a large consultant-led process with a hefty price tag. That perception alone stops organizations from asking an important question before...
Too many nonprofits begin their fundraising with a number, how much they want to raise, before they’ve even thought about why someone would give. That’s like starting a relationship with the question “Will you marry me?” on the first date. It’s functionally...
Too often, fundraising begins with a dollar goal before it has a story worth telling. But donors are not motivated solely because of the dollar amounts needed to complete fundraising goals. They give because a narrative calls to them, a narrative where they see...
Why 3-Year Trends Matter More Than One-Time Gifts In fundraising, it’s tempting to celebrate when overall dollars go up. But behind every headline is a deeper truth: a few big gifts can mask donor erosion, retention challenges, and a weakening grassroots base. Thanks...
Opening Scene: The Dessert That Sparked a RelationshipOn a Sunday afternoon in March, we served dessert and poured coffee. The room was filled with laughter, ladies, stories, and a special guest, a meteorologist who also happened to be our state’s Miss America...
Donors Give Because They Feel Connected Over the years, one of my most effective donor practices was simple: a personal thank-you call followed by one question: “What prompted you to give?” Those conversations offered more perspective on donor motivation, interests,...
