Have you ever been confused when people mention their annual fund, campaign, or appeal? What exactly are they talking about? Your annual fund (or annual campaign) is your 12 month long, multi-pronged effort to raise funds for your annual programmatic and operational needs. Annual campaigns often include traditional appeal letters (close to … [Read more...]
The Importance of Taking Calculated Risks in Fundraising
Fundraising is not for the faint of heart. It takes courage, persistence, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. But more than anything, it requires taking calculated risks—especially when it comes to asking for major gifts. Too often, nonprofit fundraisers and leaders shy away from big asks. They're worried they’ll hear “no” … [Read more...]
Carrots and Sticks: Motivating Fundraisers to Take Action
In the world of nonprofit fundraising, success hinges on the ability of fundraisers to take proactive steps -- pick up the phone, send that email, schedule that meeting, and ask for a gift. But what truly motivates a fundraiser to act? Is it the promise of rewards or the pressure of consequences? Or simply an intrinsic value? (And is … [Read more...]
Calling All Bad-Ass Women: Empower Yourself in Challenging Times
Life can be unpredictable. And no doubt, we are living in challenging times. But you’re a bad-ass woman. So, in these stressful moments, you can choose to focus on what you can control and let go of what you can't. How to Empower Yourself in Challenging Times By shifting your energy toward the things in your control, you can navigate … [Read more...]
In 2025, Major Gift Fundraising is More Important than Ever
A recent New York Times article was titled, “White House Budget Office Orders Pause in All Federal Loans and Grants,” and it took my breath away. If this “pause” holds for several days, the implications for the nonprofit sector are vast, to say the least. Diversify Your Funding and Seek Major Gifts I don’t believe private citizens can … [Read more...]
You Have Everything You Need to Raise Major Gifts — Tap It!
Almost 10 years ago, I challenged development directors to get “rich and famous” in a blog post that has over 350 comments on it. (For comparison, my average post gets maybe two comments.) Rich in terms of donations to their organizations. Famous, as in a “rock star” among their board members and colleagues. In other words, the best, … [Read more...]
The Power of Embracing Change in Fundraising, Nonprofit Leadership, and Life
In nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and even in everyday life, the one constant is change. Whether you’re thinking about a bigger role at your nonprofit, transitioning to a different organization, or simply reflecting on your growth, knowing when it’s time to move up or move on is important for personal and professional wellbeing. I'd … [Read more...]
Language and Tone Matter — in Nonprofit Leadership and in Life
Have you ever thought about how language and tone influence the outcomes you achieve in life and in leadership? Words are more than just a means of communication. They are tools that can inspire, persuade, and build trust -- or they can alienate, offend, and create barriers. In both nonprofit leadership and everyday life, the way we use … [Read more...]
10 Questions to Help You Set Goals (and Keep Them!)
Have you made New Year’s resolutions? And failed to keep them? It's ok... we all have. And if you've done that too many times, you may not be inclined to make new goals this year -- but I urge you to reconsider. Goal-Setting Should Be Motivating and Exciting Setting goals doesn’t have to be a disappointing or a self-shaming … [Read more...]
7 Strategies for Women Leaders in Nonprofit Fundraising to Shine in the New Year
The start of a new year is a perfect time for women leaders and fundraisers to set intentions, refine strategies, and position themselves as changemakers. This post includes seven tips to help you stand out, drive impact, and foster meaningful change at your nonprofit. 7 Strategies for Women Nonprofit Leaders to Shine You don’t need to … [Read more...]
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