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In our work with nonprofits, faith-based organizations and other causes, we often find ourselves talking about “community.” We are looking to strengthen community. We are seeking support from the community. We are reaching out into the community with our programs or ministries.

If you were welcoming guests to your home, you most probably would clean and de-clutter to make sure it was ready for visitors. Let me challenge you to do the same in your office these first few weeks of 2019. More than just cleaning off your desk, use the time to do a real inventory of the state of things before you launch into the new year.

It is Christmas season and while many know “It’s a Wonderful Life,” or “A Christmas Carol,” few have heard of the “The Bishop’s Wife,” a yuletide tale about a capital campaign to build a new cathedral. Star power of Cary Grant, David Niven and Lorretta Young aside, the plot is one that many might find far too familiar.

As 2018 comes to a close, we are reflecting on the organizations, staff and volunteers we got to know a little better this year. Our work often intersects with nonprofits at pivotal times in their history. What follows are a few stories of projects that have been a long time in the making, but more powerful for their focus on collaboration and partnership. Read on for inspiration and ideas!

Thanks to our partners at Gabriel Group, we have some advice to help you make the most of the last month of 2018.

For many organizations embarking on a capital campaign, naming opportunities are used as a tool for donor recognition.  Often we find that this process of determining values for naming rights brings up questions for the nonprofit leaders.

One of the most important aspects of successful fundraising is a compelling and urgent case for support. Donors need to know why your organization needs – and deserves – their philanthropic support. While it seems simple at the outset, there are many things to consider.

Several months ago, the fundraising world was talking about the changes in tax law and what differences might be expected. While much of the affects will not be known until everyone is done filing taxes next year, here is a preview of what many experts are seeing already and how you might want to respond today for the benefit of your mission: Donor Advised Funds; Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs); and Stock Transfers.

When we think of leaders who inspire us, people like Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey or Nelson Mandela come to mind. These individuals demonstrated their great leadership by being innovators who are driven by their values and a desire to make the world a better place. To change lives. They never lost sight of their goals to pursue BIG dreams, even through adverse situations.