We have all unfortunately been there. A meeting that could have been an email. A lengthy meeting that left all attendees confused about what was accomplished. A brainstorming session where personalities derailed the discussion. What these situations all needed is an effective facilitator. Learn how to run respectful and productive gatherings with these basic facilitation tips.
What is an Endowment? Learn the Basics of This Powerful Planned Giving Strategy
Endowments are most often associated with institutions of higher learning and huge nonprofits like hospitals. But an endowment may be a great fit for one of your prospective planned giving donors.
Three Effective Ways to Use Testimonials in Major Gifts Fundraising
Maybe you’re stuck drafting a new appeal. Or perhaps your website looks a little flat. It may be that your social media is lacking engagement. When you’re unsure what to do next with your nonprofit messaging, the answer is usually: try a story. Nonprofit storytelling using a testimonial leaves an impression on donors.
Board Governance Committees: What Do They Do?
A board governance committee serves as a powerful tool for nonprofits who wish to boost their board recruitment and better prepare for an organization’s inevitable “rainy days”. This committee, along with others like a finance committee and development committee, are vital sources of support for nonprofit leaders.
Ask Yourself One Question to Discover Your Nonprofit’s Culture of Philanthropy
A culture of philanthropy is that elusive, undefinable goal of every nonprofit. So how do you know you have a culture of philanthropy? Ask yourself one question about your employees and key volunteers:
Make These 3 Adjustments to Your Nonprofit Before 2024
Believe it or not, we’re officially at the halfway point to this year. As we continue to advance our missions in the months ahead, there are a few key tips that will set you up for success in 2024. Before we get swept up in year-end campaigns and Giving Tuesday efforts, take a moment to check in with these simple ideas for the months ahead.
What is the Donor Bill of Rights?
Transparency and building trust rank near the top for values fundraisers must cultivate. With competition for donor dollars increasing year after year, adopting a clear and validated set of professional values will boost donor peace of mind. The Donor Bill of Rights delivers a widely-accepted list of basic expectations between donors and their chosen nonprofits. Consider adopting these guidelines to lend legitimacy to your organization. This document will also help you observe the building blocks for a well-functioning development department.
Engage Major Donors with a Commissioning Club
The textbook definition of a commission is, “a fee paid to an agent or employee for transacting a piece of business or performing a service.” However I prefer to think of a commission, in terms of the nonprofit world, as connecting inspiration with financial and community support. Commissioning clubs provide a uniquely inspirational way to connect major donors intimately with the cause they care about.
Don’t Build a Major Gifts Program Without a Culture of Philanthropy
A culture of philanthropy ranks as one of the most vital foundations to a successful development department. Nonprofits looking to boost fundraising and build substantial relationships with major donors should first measure the strength of their organization’s culture of philanthropy.