CATEGORY

Viken Mikaelian

Viken Mikaelian founded PlannedGiving.com in 1998 and has spent nearly three decades advising and training nonprofit professionals responsible for billions in charitable gifts. He has presented at over 500 fundraising conferences and is widely published on planned giving strategy. Viken is the publisher of GIVING Magazine and founder of Philanthropy.org.
An image Hardball in Leadership No Excuses Just Results.
Planned Giving Marketing
Viken Mikaelian

Hardball in Leadership: No Excuses, Just Results

Whiners don’t win—leaders do. If your comfort zone is begging for 2–4% raises and hoping for a part-time job post-retirement, this isn’t for you. Hardball leaders don’t play it safe—they make bold moves, take calculated risks, and push their teams toward excellence. The nonprofit world is plagued by a softie mentality, where comfort trumps results. But real impact demands urgency, accountability, and grit. Step up, toughen up, and lead like a winner—because playing it safe won’t get you to the top.

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Modern home floating on clouds, symbolizing how real estate gifts can elevate charitable impact and legacy giving
Real Estate Donations
Viken Mikaelian

Only the Top 1% of Nonprofits Accept Gifts of Real Estate

Nonprofits are leaving billions on the table—not because donors aren’t willing, but because fundraisers are too afraid to ask for real estate. Myths, fear, and ignorance have paralyzed the sector. Meanwhile, $35 trillion in property is changing hands over the next two decades. Still think bake sales will cut it? Like Willie Sutton said about robbing banks: “Because that’s where the money is.” Real estate is where the money is. The smart fundraisers already know it. Do you?

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Vibrant tree with deep roots and silhouetted people holding hands, symbolizing unity, legacy, growth, and community impact
Planned Giving Marketing
Viken Mikaelian

Build a Legacy Society People Actually Join

Most legacy societies fail quietly—created with enthusiasm, then forgotten. This guide breaks that cycle with a proven roadmap to build or revive a legacy society that truly works. You’ll learn how to choose a name that resonates, attract founding members, keep them engaged, and most importantly—sell through stories, not just tell them. Whether you’re starting from scratch or dusting off an old initiative, this is your actionable playbook for legacy giving that inspires and endures.

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Giving Magazine, Karen Alonso on Cover, United Way Las Vegas, AFP Chapter President

Giving Magazine

For those who drive change — not watch it. Join the top 1%.

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