Jim Mellor

I had just started work as the new CFO of a major not for profit.  For me it was a dream come true - a job that I interviewed hard for and prayed it would be offered to me.

Like me, you may be hearing a lot of chatter about our economy. We have experienced significant economic prosperity over the past years. Is our economy headed for a slow down? Who knows?

This month, the Donor By Design Team is discussing campaign readiness: the things that (should) happen before you begin a major fundraising campaign.  Today, Jim asks the question that you should ask yourself before your next campaign: are you ready?

This summer, the Donor By Design Team is considering new ways to look at stewardship… going beyond the thank you note to forming deeper relationships. Today’s topic: connecting with those who give generously of their time. 

It seems like everyone is traveling this summer! If you have been an airport in the last few weeks, you will see young people, couples, and families all on their way to somewhere. Besides the normal army of business travelers, the summer always adds that extra layer of travelers that just make traveling a slightly more crowded experience.

There are some words that can bring fear in the most seasoned nonprofit leader. “Don’t forget your interview is this morning!” may be some of those words, bringing back memories of our first “show and tell” in kindergarten.

This month, the Donor By Design Team has love and appreciation on our minds… specifically how we “love up” our donors. Today’s topic: looking what’s behind your donor’s smile.