Blog

FINDING CERTAINTY

Posted by Bruce Berglund

One doesn’t have to be glued to the news to sense the uncertainty that is gripping the stock market, our nation and even the world. As a nonprofit professional or volunteer, how do you continue to seek support for your mission while acknowledging the volatility of our political, economic and health landscape?

 

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Stewardship

THE THANK YOU TREE

Posted by Thom Peters

My friend Larry Webb, business owner and philanthropist, has been a big supporter of the Leelanau Conservancy in Northern Michigan. Larry is one of those donors who does not find naming opportunities important to his giving. In fact, when he was asked about a naming opportunity for this project, jokingly answered, “Just put my name on a tree.”

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Stewardship, thanks

HOW IT IS GIVEN

As you review your yearly gifts and remaining asks, consider the following questions…

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Stewardship, gifts of stock, Donor Advised Funds

CHILL SUMMER

I recently had an enlightening conversation with two smart, ambitious high school graduates. They were ready to take on the world. Both had a positive attitude towards planning and fulfilling future goals.  One of the things we discussed was the transition from high school to college. When I asked the about their pre-college summer plans, the graduates’ response was they were going to have a “chill summer”. 

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Stewardship, Renewal, Fundraising Campaign, Church Stewardship

LESSONS FROM 2008

Posted by Bruce Berglund

We are towards the end of an unprecedented 10-year growth run in the stock market. Many analysts agree we are overdue for some sort of correction. I have no idea if they’re correct … and if I did, I’d be on a beach sipping a fruity drink and not writing this blog!

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Topics: Donor Stewardship

VOLUNTEER CHURN

Posted by Michele Goodrich

April is National Volunteer Month. Over the next few weeks the Donor By Design Team will be reflecting on the impact volunteers have on our communities and our world. Today Michele warns us not to ignore “retired” volunteers.

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Topics: Volunteer, Volunteer Development, Donor Stewardship, Volunteer Leadership

THANKING FAMILY

Posted by Peggy Vinson

It’s November and our minds automatically go to being thankful.

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Volunteer Appreciation, Stewardship, Thank You

COAT AND TIE

Posted by Michele Goodrich

A nonprofit executive director (ED) has a complex role with myriad demands on their time. As a result, one of the concerns we often hear from them is that they struggle with having adequate time to develop relationships and cultivate donors. It isn’t that they don’t know how important donor cultivation is; it’s just difficult to make it a priority over other equally important responsibilities.

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Donor Cultivation

AUTHENTIC AND PERSONAL

Posted by Jan Brogdon

This summer, the Donor By Design Team is considering new ways grow the relationship with our donors… moving beyond the thank you note to a deeper connection. Today’s topic: making stewardship authentic and personal. 

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Topics: Donor Stewardship, Stewardship, Donor Love

THREE KEYS TO STRONGER DONOR RELATIONSHIPS

Recently, I attended a conference. The highlight of my experience was reconnecting with colleagues and friends. Even walking through the lobby, every other step was a chance for a hug, a handshake and a friendly smile. We shared laughs, stories and joy. I started to notice my conversations with my colleagues had changed; there was a deeper, more meaningful, feel to them. While we talked about work, the discussion also included family, personal accomplishments, goals and aspirations. The quality time I spent with my colleagues, who now felt more like friends, was priceless.

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Topics: Donor Stewardship

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