As we come to the end of 2016, we’re taking a look back at the posts that inspired the most conversations on the blog and with our clients. Today’s topic? Asking for a Gift.
ASKING FOR A GIFT
When people say they don’t like raising money, what they’re usually really saying is that they don’t like asking for a gift. What they don’t realize is that, when done right, asking for a gift can be a joyful experience for both the giver and the asker.
How can you help to prepare your volunteers and staff to be better at knowing when and how to ask for a gift in 2017?
Willing to Wait
Being a fundraising volunteer isn’t easy. One of the main reasons why is that it is so personal. It’s you, connecting with your peers, possibly even your friends or family, to ask them to be generous towards a cause you believe in. For even the most passionate volunteer, the experience can be a little nerve-wracking... Read More
Powering Through The Dip
Every non-profit leader is familiar with the feeling: somewhere, about half-way through the campaign, you hit a dip. It happens every year, but I’m always amused at how unexpected this seems to everyone... Read More
Earning The Right to Ask
I suspect this has happened to all of us involved in fundraising – a potential major donor makes a commitment at a level far below what we had hoped to receive. In reviewing the scenario, we feel like we’ve done so many things right in order to assure a successful campaign: developed an amazing case, engaged great leadership, identified top potential donors and put into play an outstanding campaign plan... Read More
Harvest Time
It’s harvest time in many parts of the country. Farmers and backyard gardeners are reaping the fruits of their labor.
Planning for harvest time starts months in advance, followed by long days of preparing the soil, planting the seeds, and tending the plants. If the weather has cooperated, all that time and effort is rewarded with a plentiful yield... Read More
A Chilling Tale
I have the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing people as part of my work helping not-for-profits fund their causes.
A few years back I had the opportunity to interview a Fortune 500 CEO as part of the training I do to help encourage staff and volunteers to be better “askers” for their causes... Read More
How To Face Down A Monster
The thought of asking for money can be intimidating and overwhelming. The planning and work that it takes to prepare for a successful campaign can often feel insurmountable.
Over my thirty-two-year career in the nonprofit world, I have worked with volunteers, staff and community members to raise money for great causes... Read More
Preparing your volunteers and staff well will go a long way to helping your next campaign be successful!