When I was asked to edit/manage/write this blog, I wasn’t sure what I might have to say that was new, interesting, stimulating or basically worth reading. I don’t want to just hear (read) myself thinking, I want to encourage discussion, conversation and professional debate.
So, as my first posting … an outline of what this blog will cover, and an initial description of the basis of my fundraising philosophy:
• What fundraising is and is not;
• What development is and is not;
• The relationship between fundraising and development;
• Who in a non-profit organization (NPO) is responsible for fundraising and/or development — the roles of staff, board and other volunteers;
• Major Gift and Bequest programs;
• Fundraising/Planning Studies;
• Capital Campaigns;
• Grant Writing and Relationships with Grantors;
• Special events;
• Why “fundraisers” are not fundraising; and,
• Anything else I can think of and that you suggest.
Fundraising, where it serves the needs of the NPO, cannot be about the needs of the NPO. Fundraising must be about the needs of the (prospective) donor. If you don’t consider the donor’s needs, how can you expect the donor to consider the needs of the NPO?
I also want to be able to publish your thoughts and comments, and I want to address your questions. I also invite you to contact me directly if you have an idea for a posting … I’ll give you credit (name, firm/org, contact info) for whatever you write that I post.
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Have a question about starting or expanding your fundraising? Email me at AskDCA@Major-Capital-Giving.com. With over 30 years of counseling in major gifts, capital campaigns, bequest programs and the planning studies to precede these three, we’ll work to answer your question.
Hank Lewis with Development Consultant Associates has over thirty years as a fundraising consultant and is a specialist in Board and Leadership Development, Capital Campaign, Bequest Program and Major Gifts.