This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending the Northern Colorado Active 20/30 annual “Suitcase Party” ( http://noco2030.org/) for the first time. This event, designed to raise money for NoCo 20/30’s philanthropy goals, was amazing. Essentially it is a silent / live auction, food and drinks, along with a concert (Blues Traveler this year!) … Read More →
How many of you have ever been the parent of a teenager? I have a teenage son who really keeps me on my toes in more ways than one. I distinctly remember a time when he was small and he wanted me to buy something for him while we were together at the mall. I … Read More →
When we talk about donor’s rights, it seems like the conversation often centers around privacy issues. Another popular right is the ability to see the organization’s financial statements. This week there was a court case that will no doubt contribute to legal precedent concerning a portion of the Donor’s Bill of Rights. Section IV of … Read More →
I don’t know about you but there are certain movies that I must watch whenever they come on television. If it is Saturday afternoon and I am flipping the channels because I have finished my chores for the day and need to relax, there are a few movies that will always command my attention. The … Read More →
I was consulting for a small organization led by a new Executive Director who had no fund raising experience. Typically I try to stay away from going on solicitations as a consultant, rather I help devise strategy and provide training to build capacity. This particular ED was deathly afraid of asking for money so I … Read More →
Back in the day I had an executive director who did not like me to publicly announce large gifts to the organization. She felt that if the community and/or donors perceived that we had too much money, it would impact our fund raising negatively and we would encounter financial distress. She believed that donors want … Read More →
Recently I was speaking to a colleague about my need to identify a donor for the purpose of throwing a House Party. This person, who was “older” like me, made a comment that she did not see what “Kid ‘n Play” has to do with raising money. We had a laugh but it got me … Read More →
Executive directors at small nonprofit organizations have said to me in the past that branding is for the ‘big organizations.’ For example, the Red Cross is one of the top three recognized brands in the world. Obviously they have the resources to invest in brand awareness and they understand the benefits. Many leaders of small … Read More →
Take a look at this post from Gail Perry. It is excellent. If you see these signs at your organization it is time for action. KLM
There is some disagreement in the fund raising world surrounding how to get meetings with donors. Every time I speak to a different development professional, I often hear a different strategy. Some people I have met would have a promising career as a Secret Agent with the NSA if they were interested in that type … Read More →