Do you want the opportunity to skyrocket your career while learning how to solicit major gifts?
Be rich: In less than a year, you can increase your organization’s annual fund by 10%, 20%, 100% or more.
Be famous: In 12 month’s time, you can be revered by your boss, board members and colleagues.
If becoming a rich and famous all-star at your organization sounds intriguing, then you’re in luck.
I’m issuing a challenge and I hope you’ll take it.
I’m dedicating this entire year of blog posts to help you successfully raise more major gifts. Whether you have never asked for a major gift before or consider yourself an expert, I know you can raise more.
Are you with me?
Your Commitment
Participating in the Major Gifts Challenge is easy. Here’s what you’ll do:
- Read each of my blog posts (approximately two per month).
- Dedicate two hours per week to taking action on the information in each post. This step is critical — if you don’t take action, you won’t get results. Remember, it’s only two hours per week — you can do that!
- Let me know how it’s going in the comments so I know what’s working for you and when you need more help.
That’s it.
And, I promise, you’ll raise more money this year and successfully solicit major gifts. But to get there, you need to follow my advice and take action.
Deal?
My Pledge to You
If you take on the Major Gifts Challenge, I’m certain that you’ll be rich with donations and famous at your organization for your fundraising efforts. Not bad for only two hours per week.
If you’ve always wished you could solicit major gifts, but never had the confidence or know-how, this is your chance! I’m offering personalized coaching as a free fundraising consultant (via my replies to your comments) so don’t miss this opportunity.
I’m going to hold your hand along the way and take you step by step through the process of major gifts. Come with me on this year-long journey. I know you’ll be glad you did.
Commit Now in the Comments
It’s time to commit. Let me know in the comments if you’re willing to publicly take on the Major Gifts Challenge. Fame and riches await…
Invest in Your Nonprofit AND Yourself
The Major Gifts Challenge is free, but free can only take you so far…
If you’re ready and willing to step up your game in a much bigger way, my new course — Mastering Major Gifts — could be the smartest investment you’ll ever make in your career.
Mastering Major Gifts is a transformative 7-week online training course that unlocks your true major gift fundraising potential. Whatever nonprofit you work for will benefit from these skills for years to come.
- Developed by an ACFRE (Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive)
- Based on years of experience and academic research
- Provides 35 hours of CFRE credits
This post is part of Amy’s Major Gifts Challenge. Read the entire series to learn how to solicit major gifts by spending just a few hours each month.
I’m on board
Hooray, Cate! Looking forward to a fantastic year of raising major gifts together!
I’m all in.
This is great! I’m in Amy.
Count me in, Amy!
Amy, thank you for such a great opportunity. I am new at fundraising and welcome your help!
Hi Amy, Thanks for the challenge!! I’m interviewing for a Major Gifts Officer position. today. I’ve been a Special Event Fundraiser for 20 years and been successfull. Looking to make a career shift. You’re exactly what I need to help me with this transistion!!
I’m a girl who loves a challenge. I’m in!
I think this is brilliant, Amy. I love the idea of being rich and famous by getting serious about major gifts! It’s fun and intriguing and engaging and important! Let us know how Asking Matters can help the folks who sign up for your challenge! We’ll be happy to. Bravo, Amy!
Thanks, Andrea. Looking forward to working with you and Asking Matters on this exciting project!
I just found your blog today….so I am going to take your word for it, I’m in!
Chelsea – I’m glad you found me and I’m glad you’re in!
I’ve been in non profit fundraising for a while, but I am the first Major Gift staff person my org has ever hired, and this is my first Major Gifts position. Looking forward to learning as much as I can!
Kevin – I’m glad you decided to take this journey with me. I look forward to hearing about your progress.
Great idea, Amy! I’m in. I’m on a maternity leave replacement for a small organization… and they certainly could use some assistance connecting with their donors! I’m on it, and going to encourage others to do it as well.
Beth Ann
Amy,
Stumbled across your site online and must say that I am intrigued. I’d be pleased to participate. What is the next step?
Terry
Next step is to read every blog post (appriximately twice per month) and take action for 2 hours per week! To be notified of new blog posts, sign up for my newsletter on my website at http://www.tripointfundraising.com.
Please count me in……..!,
I’m in!! When does it start?
Elizabeth – It starts now! I’ll be posting the first action post next week, but you’re in! Exciting!
Thanks for offering this great opportunity. I’m in!
I’m in too
Thanks for the offer. I look forward to improving our results at major donor fundraising. If wealth and fame follow, I’ll consider that great frosting on the cake.
Count me in! I’m very excited by this, and had personally pledged to do more in the major gift arena this year. This is perfect!
I’m in! Looking forward to your blog posts!
Amy your books have helped me so much I feel like it would be crazy not to do this – I’m in!
Kay – thank you for your kind words! This will build on the information in my books! You’re off to a great start.
Hi Amy, I am quite new to fundraising and the only gifts and development officer on staff . I need all the help I can get. I am looking forward to seeing some results. Dianne
Susie Shinn, Development Director for Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County (Arkansas) is on board!
I am excited about learning how to do fundraising! Thanks for your offer!
I’m in!
Hi Amy,
I’m in – Have been building a new development office for a 37 year old statewide organization that has historically been dependent on government funding – very challenging – look forward to working with you in 2013!
Hi Dee,
Yes, it’s important to diversity your fundraising and not just rely on one source (gov’t in your case). Glad you’ll be joining me.
Hi Amy!
Hope you are well. I am game for this one. See you online!
— Adrienne : )
Let’s Do It! 2013 Will Be Awesome!!
I’m in, thanks!
I’m in! Looking forward to learning and raising!!!
Count me in! I have been in development for years, but I enjoy hearing and implementing good best practices!
Ok, I’m up for the challenge!
Yes, I’m in! (gulps and smiles shakily…)
Kimberly – I know you can do it! I’m going to walk you through it step-by-step and hold your hand along the way.
This is one resolution I’ve put off too long. Looking forward to getting started! Thanks, Amy.
Yes!!!
I am in!
I’m in. Looking forward to learning and doing more!
I’m in thanks for the opportunity!
I’m in! Awaiting your next post…
Looking forward to raising lots more friends and funds. Thanks for adding some impetus. Dave
Looking forward to putting in the time–and seeing the results.
Jeff Guyett
Community Action Center (Whitman County, Washington)
I’m in and can wait to get started! I am looking forward to learning from your amazing wisdom!
Sign me up sister!
I am quite excited and appreciative for this opportunity – I am directing a new foundation (less than 1 year old) and we are launching a capital campaign. I so neeed the ‘no-nonsense” version to get this accomplished.
This will be no-nonsense for sure – I’ll walk you through it step-by-step!
Sign me up! How refreshing!
Thanks for the offer Amy. Looking forward to the blog posts. I hope I can meet the 2-hours-a-week challenge!
We have already made a commitment to raising a significant amount of more money this year to Elevate Life in the Disability Family. So I’m in.
I am ready for the challenge, looking to grow annual giving and major gifts, let’s do it!
I love your information on other topics so I’m in.
Thank you so much for your excitment everyone! I’m excited too.
If you’re not already getting my monthly e-newsletter, sign up on my website homepage (and get my free eBook) to make sure you never miss a post in this series.
Next week’s post will be on “what MG really are, and how to figure out how big is major”. Stay tuned!
Amy, this is great. Count me in! I’ve been searching for a way to gain more knowledge about Major Gifts and identify ways to improve our program.
Amy, I’m in. I help two small non-profits with grant writing and fundraising and I have been encouraging them to ask for a large donation from well known major donors in our area. I met you at the GPA Conference in Las Vegas and thoroughly enjoyed your workshop!
Hi Genevieve – Thanks for reintroducing yourself. I’m glad you’ll be participating.
Happy to be on board:)
Happy to be a part if this:)
if it’s not too late, I will commit to being a part of this
Hi Amy,
Count me in. I’m looking forward to achieving bigger and better results with your guidance. I will commit to reading your blogs and taking action!
Excellent, Nick! Glad to have you on board. Be sure to continue to comment and let me know how it’s going.
Great idea! Glad to join and participate.
Sounds like a great Idea. I’m in…
I’m so glad that everyone is so excited. I know you’ll do great.
To be sure you know when each post comes out, follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
Dear Amy,
I took your workshop last year. Needless to say i loved your practical approach.
I am a retired ED and serve as a board member currently and am on the Fundraising committee.
Looking forward to joining your blog to learn how to get a major gifts for my organization!
Thanks,
Reena
Thank you, Reena. Glad to have you participating.
Let’s do this!!
Your ideas on raising money from individuals has helped our organization a great deal. I would love to take the Major Gifts Challenge!
I commit – it’s going to be a great year!
I’m in… Looking forward to building my expertise, knowledge, and skill level.
Thanks for the opportunity!
I’m in… Looking forward to building my knowledge base and skill set. Thanks for the opportunity!
I am in!
Hi Amy,
This is a terrific opportunity. Thank you. I am on the board of LitWorld and am leading the fundraising team. I spent the last two years developing what we call the “LitCircle” for our major donors, $1,000+. We have developed communications, newsletters, and call schedules to cultivate this important group. Face-to-face meetings, and calls are our best way to ensure that these passionate donors feel connected to our ongoing work. Look forward to raising even more this year!
–Jeff
Looking forward to working with you, Jeff, and hearing about your success and challenges along the way.
Looking forward to working a plan! thank you.
We have a small not for profit, we have been around for 30 years. Our budget has never been over $260,000 dollars. We work with youth in video and computer technology and have produced excellent work over the years. We have never had the structure in place or the consistent personell to take the organization to the next level. As founder and President of the organization I take personal responsibilty for the ineffective financal viability of the organization. I would like to step down within the next three to five years and I want to leave a legacy of a viable organization ready to serve for another 30 years. I want to raise major gifts and put an excellent staff in place and do more in the next three to five years administratively than I have done in the last 30. You are who I have been waiting for, I have been ready to go….thank you.
PS new board in place, first meeting feb 10 want to have a plan in place
Good luck, Lyn! Sounds like a great goal and ambitious years ahead of you. I know you can do it!
Hi Amy,
I am on board and looking forward to this “Major Gift” challenge !
I’m up for the Challenge, thanks for inviting me, Amy! I heard you speak at the 2012 Not-For-Profit Leadership Summit — your motivating insight about starting and growing an individual giving program still sticks with me, and I’m looking forward to more.
Thanks, Sara. Glad we were able to connect in-person and online! I look forward to hearing about your progress!
Thanks, Amy. I am in!
Let’s do this!
Sounds like fun! Count me in, too. And thank you!
I’m in and looking forward to watching the progress!
I’m on board too!
Count me in. I’m a single person development shop for a growing national organization. Look forward to learning and sharing with others!
I’m in!! Looking forward to this!!!!
thanks!
Sign me up!
Count me in! I need ALLLLLL the help I can get.
If you’re just finding this post, be sure to get all the posts about the major gifts challenge via my blog under “Major Gifts Challenge”. Also – 3 ways to be notified of future posts on this topic: 1. Join my mailing list on the homepage of my website. 2. Follow me on Twitter, 3. Like me on Facebook. It’s going to be a great year!!!
You’ve got it. I’m in!
Count me in – I am intrigued and committed!
Okay, Amy, I’m committed. I started in grantwriting and wound up in fundraising, but it’s primarily annual campaign and planned giving (I know, annual should be the start and pG the end, but that’s how it’s working out here so far.) I’m looking forward to your advice to help me get started in Major Gifts and to keep me from getting distracted by lots of small tasks, by giving me BIG THINGS to think about and breaking them down so I do them!
Sure – why not? Amy, I like your enthusiasm, so I’ll do my best to keep up.
And Kudos to Asking Matters for the referral!
This is exactly what I need to go from reading about major gifts to securing them. Thanks for the challenge!
I’ll sign up and give it a try. thanks for the referral through Asking Matters.
Amy,
I’ll all in! Looking forward to a revitalized major gifts campaign in 2013!
I would love to take the challenge!
I’m really enthused about this! How could anyone resist this inviitation? All of us in the nonprofit fund development world need all the assistance we can obtain – – with our ultra-limited budgets that can only be expanded with better and more effective fundraising!
In!
I’m on board and look forward to your posts!
Just a logistical question, will these posts be sent to our email inbox? And when does our fun challenge begin?
Hi Becky,
Great question. The posts will ONLY be sent to your email box, if you sign up for my e-newsletter (scroll up to the top of this post – you’ll get my free ebook too). Otherwise, to be notified of new posts, like me on facebook and follow me on twitter (also at the top of this post). It’s already started and the first three posts are ready to view – just go to my blog tab and click on Major Gifts Challenge.
Thanks for participating!
Absolutely. I’m in too.
And thank you!
Iz
Here’s hoping being held accountable to a blog and myself will help sift through all the “must-do’s” in my one-person development office! Onward!
I’m in! Please. Having this on a consistent basis will help sift through all the “to do’s” in my one person development office!
Looking forward to learning a lot and seeing how your blog and weekly exercises will allow me to develop major gift relationships.
New organization in a depressed neighborhood…so need help! Been at this for a year as a volunteer and am getting discouraged.
Hang in there, Tammi. Follow these steps and I know you’ll do great!
Great! Let’s get going!! What’s next?
Next steps here: https://www.amyeisenstein.com/2013-major-gifts-challenge/. Thanks for joining me, Pam!
Amy, I am looking for a job. I want to learn about these techniques, so I’ll be ready to go when I do get a job.
Hi Amy,
I just found out about this challenge today. I’m in! Looking forward to continuing a major gifts effort started last year.
I’m in. Thanks!
Hello Amy,
Thank you for this post. I have avoided the subject of finances and our church has struggled for the past two years. I am now acknowledging the fact that my current approach is not working. I’m all in!
Hooray, Carl!
I found this a little late in the year, but I’m on board!
Came across this today….never to late to start…on Board!
I’m in! As a brand new Development Manager, I need all the help I can get. Thanks!
I’m ready to commit.
How do I start receiving your blog posts…..am I behind? How do I get caught up?
Here’s how to participate and receive posts: https://www.amyeisenstein.com/2013-major-gifts-challenge/. Glad to have you participate!
Is it too late to get on board? I just started at a new organization and they need all the help they can get. Everyone here in development is new to the organization. The previous staff was focused solely on events and we’re hoping to change that! Count me in.
Hi Dawn – it’s never to late to start raising major gifts. Check out this link for past posts and how to get all future posts: https://www.amyeisenstein.com/2013-major-gifts-challenge/
My position is a new one to the mission I am with, so I am looking forward to the development, discipline, and dynamic taking the Major Gifts Challenge will introduce and invest in me and the work I am doing. Thank you for the offer and opportunity, Amy!
This is a wonderful challenge! Thank you for sharing your expertise. One question, we are pending 501c3 status, will this challenge help us in any way find donors willing to donate while we are pending? Thanks again, looking forward to the challenge!
I am in! So exciting to grow our agency with your help!
I need help in turning my passion for our mission into support for the organization. Hoping you’ll help me find the confidence to act on what I learn! Thanks for making your help available.
I am in. Hope it is not too late. I also signed up for the Guidestar Webinar scheduled on April 30th. I am excited to see what this challenge can do!
Thanks.
Thanks, Shanel. It’s never too late to join. To receive notification of all posts, sign up for my e-newsletter on the homepage of my website http://www.tripointfundraising.com or follow me on twitter or like me on facebook.
Glad you will join me on the Guidestar Webinar.
I’m in-better late than never. Thanks
Deb
Count me in! Thanks for the information and encouragement.
I am on board. Lets go get it!
Heard about this thru the GuideStar webinar. I’m excited to participate, and this is exactly what I need!
On behalf of Share Your Care Adult Day Services, we would love to participate!
I COMMIT! I know I can do this! I am both the ED and Development Director in an office of 2. I made the first step by convincing my board that we had to ADD a third person for all the missions/programming and they did it. Now I am finally freed up (a little more) to take on this challenge. I am excited, a little nervous and want to convince my board that it WORKS!! they think it is all about writing grants (which is fine) but have to get them to “seeing is believing” and joining me in this journey. thank you Amy and I look forward to working with you all year. Thank you so much for all your encouragement and enthusiasm!!
Woo hoo! Go, Kendyl! Stick with me all year and I know you’ll see results!
With limited time currently, I’ll try to keep up but would like to raise more funds!
Everything “everyone” in the professional fundraising arena tells me is that major gifts from individuals is the most important part of fundraising, so I really need to learn how to do this. I’ve been looking for a mentor. Thanks for this opportunity.
Glad to have you on board, Priscilla!
Timely! Working in a one-person development office, this program will not only keep me focused, but challenged and moving forward.
I’m in… looks like I have some catching up to do!
Ok. Let’s do this thing. We’re a very small, understaffed, and overworked (but passionate!) shop, so I welcome the support and structure of Amy’s offer.
I’m in.
I’m coming in late to this part, but I am going to give it my best shot! Annual giving is easy – I write letters, they send money. Face-to-face solicitations…always been a bit scarier.
Hi Randi,
Thanks so much for joining me. Overcoming the fear of asking is half the battle. What’s the worst that could happen? I’ll be there for you every step of the way!
Can’t wait to hear how it goes – keep me posted.
This sounds great! Will do.
Just heard about you through GuideStar. I am joining late, but am enthusiastic!
I’m in! excited to see results
With shrinking dollars and this awful economy, I need all the help I can get. I’m in.
Here’s my commitment, thanks!
Amy, thanks for the opportunity to receive some mentoring. I’m a new ED of a nonprofit with a very small (just at $250K) budget and staff (2FT, interns and 2PT) with little formal fundraising experience. Looking forward to the challenge!
I took over as the Executive Director with my organization just 3 weeks ago and am so excited to take this challenge.
Lots of fundraising experience but always willing to learn more! I’m in.
Dave – thanks so much for joining. Feel free to add to the conversation as an experienced fundraiser! Happy to have you.
Amy-
Our chancellor has joined me in a one-day a week commitment to visit with major donors this year. We are on an odyssey of identifying who our major donors might be and then setting appointments with them. Our community college district covers a 3,400 square mile area so we commit days by area and are finding that three appointments a day is about all we can handle. They are exhausting. Good follow up works takes me close to another day a week.
I’m looking forward to reading your posts and getting on board. We do great work in our communities and I spent 10 years in marketing telling our stories via media. Now it’s my turn, as foundation executive director, to ask major donors for their support. I will welcome your input.
Frances
Thanks, Frances. Glad to have you participate!
I’m all in. Looking forward to the webinar on April 30.
I’m a little late to the party, but am excited about the process. Count me in!
Challenge accepted! Thank you for doing this.
Committing!
I’m [We’re] IN! Thank you.
I’ve been trying to develop a major gifts program and I know how important it is. It’s a challenge to set aside the time – to get the commitment of other people’s time – but this looks like a way to make it happen. I’m going to read everything and start again today!
How do I sign up and get your blog each week?
Hi Todd,
There are three ways to be notified of new posts:
1. sign up for my newsletter on the homepage of my website
2. like me on twitter
3. follow me on facebook.
Links to all three can be found here: https://www.amyeisenstein.com/2013-major-gifts-challenge/
Bring it on!
A little late to the game, but I’m willing to give this a try.
Better late than never, I’m ready to begin!
I’m ready to become a major gifts superstar. I’m new to major gift solicitation and would like to learn the ins and outs of cultivation and the ask.
I just saw this on GuideStar and I’m going to give it a try. I run a very small non-profit in Minnesota and I am the only employee. I coordinate about 200+ volunteers who provide basic services to about 150 senior citizens annually. Our budget is about $55,000 annually and we are in our 6th year, so are still a relatively new program. I appreciate any guidance you can provide…Thank you!
I just learned about this. I’m delighted by your enthusiasm and step-by-step guidance, Thanks!
I just saw this post via the ISM website and would like to ‘take the challenge.’ Is it still open?
Yes, Renee, the Major Gifts Challenge will always be open and you can start any time! I’ll be posting new posts every other week, but go at your own pace. The goal is to get you major gifts this year, no matter when you start! Welcome.
In!
This is just what I need! Thanks Amy!
Yes I am on board
Yes
I know I am late and missed registering for the April 30th Guidestar Webinar. Will it be shared again?I am behind but wish to take your challenge to find those in my county who are willing and able to fund our charity.
Thanks for the opportunity to learn.
Hi John,
I understand that you will be able to listen to a recording of the Guidestar webinar, shortly after it airs at the end of April. Check the Guidestar site the first week of May and it should be available.
I’m glad you will join me for the Major Gifts Challenge!
4 Paws has just celebrated it’s first birthday and we have had great sucess with few resources. With that being said, we are struggling. We have received excellent help and donations from various individuals and organizations but with the need for our service being so great, we always need funds.
I am commiting my time and effort to follow your program.
Very interested in learning more! Count me in!
Amy,
What perfect timing! We are in the process of developing an endowment management account and am anxious to learn more about major gift fundraising. Thank you for your generous offer.
I commit to the challenge!
I’m in!
I just came across your challenge. I hope I’m up to the task. I’m in.
Thanks!
I’m the founding ED of a small non-profit that has never taken its annual fund seriously. Cutbacks in government funding mean that is going to have to change. I’m excited to take part in your challenge!
I’m in! Looking forward to what lies ahead. . . . .
I am on board with getting better at communicating to people in a way that actually does encourage them to make a decision about joining in at the level they are capable of and then supports them in that decision.
Looking forward to seeing what will come of reading and implementing your advice through your blog.
Thanks for making this available.
Just found this today via Kivi Leroux Miller’s blog. What a great format! Can’t wait to get started!
I’m in! Better late than never.
On board…
I’m late to the party, but I’m in!
I’m in. I’m creating a development program from scratch, and major gifts is the most intimidating. Look forward to help navigating the process.
Molly, I’m trying to clean up a scratched development program, so we’re sort of in the same boat!
heidi
I’m here – a little late, but happy to play catch up!
Looking forward to the challenge.
Starting now 🙂
This looks like exactly what I need. Thanks Amy, I’m in!
My Executive Director just asked me to develop a major gifts plan for the new fiscal year — this Challenge is it! Thank you!
I am in. Apparently I’ve been asleep at the switch for the last 6 years and have just expected things to move as they always have in the past without much involvement on my part.
Well, I hit the wall July 1, and will barely make payroll tomorrow.
July was spent with easy asks through the mail and setting that all up (thank yous and everything). “But we’ve never done it that way before, Father. . . . ”
Now to begin the Major Gift Path, though we’re going to take the first 4 steps in 2 weeks.
I’m sorry it has come to this to wake you up! Unfortunately, raising major gifts is neither quick nor easy. Donors will hear the desperation in your voice and no one wants to help a sinking ship. Remember to talk about your mission and vision. Good luck and keep us posted!
I just started in a new position and it’s my first time serving as a Development Director (and my first time being responsible for major gifts)! This series is a perfect into for me – I’m in!
I am jumping in today ~ better late than never. This has been a rollercoaster ride for my organization this year and I am confident that major donor gifts will help us realize a VERY big vision. We hope to build our own school in Uganda. In the meantime ~ we have got to fulfill our liabilities for this year. We have lost several individual child sponsors. So finding your challenge feels like serendipity. I’ve got some ground to cover given how many months have passed ~ but I am taking the plunge today. Thanks for this opportunity!
Amy,
I am so blessed to join the challenge! Just this morning I had to turn down an offer for a paid Major Donor Consutlant because of budget. I was so discouraged and then I opened up my inbox and found your challenge in Guide Star. It is everything I will need to be successful. I want to do my best so more people can be reached and helped. Thank you for doing this. I have also challenged our Executive Director to join me in the challenge. Thanks again!
Sharre
You are wonderful, Thank you! I accept this challenge!
Thanks for offering this – it’s just what I need, even if I’m playing a lot of catch up. This is my first development job and I’m grateful for all I can learn.
I’m excited to join this challenge. Should I wait and kick it off in the new year or start now?
Hi Brynne,
Start right away. No need to wait! Let me know how you’re doing along the way.
Amy
This looks like exactly what I need! I’m a staff of one at a small museum. We’re close (but not quite) to the point of get more donations or close. Thanks for doing this, Amy!
I am taking the challenge! I am new to the field, and have taken a 9-month certification to switch careers and now I’m in the field, less than 6 months after completing the coursework! I look forward to following your advice!
It’s February 2014 and I’m committed to taking the Major Gifts Challenge this year! Thank you for the opportunity.
I’m in!
Yes!
Late to the party but I’m in!
I’m in (kind of). I found this while researching how to identify major donors in our database (I’m the database administrator). So while I won’t be practicing all the tips, I will be reading them and using what I can to help my development staff. And since all the posts are already up from last year…I’ll probably be reading more than 2 a month. Thanks for the help!
Although there are some differences between fundraising in the USA and in the UK, great advice can never go wrong. I’m looking forward to following the course.
Who can say no to this? Thanks!
Is this still happening? If so, I’m in!
I’m all in!
When I first started reading through the major gifts challenge, I think you had a link on your home page to a free database that you recommended, but I can’t find that anywhere now. Can you send me the link or where it is on your site? Thank you!
Hi Janette,
The only thing I might have said about free databases is that very small organizations don’t need to spend money on fundraising software. Microsoft Access is a perfectly adequate database to get started with as long as you are keeping track of your donors, their contact info., and their donations. Salesforce also has a free version for nonprofits, which many of my clients use, but I’m not recommending it or not recommending it.
Hope that helps.
Amy
I love having the opportunity to really focus on some new skills each week. The challenge will help to insure that I keep that focus. Looking forward to fabulous results!
I am certainly not new to major gifts; however, the idea of having accountability to this challenge is intriguing and helpful. So, if you don’t mind a “seasoned” development officer taking on the challenge, I’m in!
Patricia,
I’m delighted you want to join us. I can always use all the help I can get!
I just found your blog and would love to jump in and develop my skills in this area. Thanks for providing the information!
Just introduced to your website and need help in this area. Totally up for and looking forward to this challenge!
I am very interested and appreciative
Would love to take up your challenge! We are wanting to expand our efforts for major gifts.
So glad I discovered your website, I’m on board.
Even with 8 years experience your never too old or in the business long enough to think you have it figured out! I am in and ready for the challenge! I may even have my team participate!
I will happily take on the challenge!
I am on board…can’t talk now…too much reading to do!!! 🙂 Thanks
I love this idea. I’m making the commitment now. Looking forward to what the future holds.
I would love to begin receiving major donations for our non-profit. Your challenge I take!!!
I’m in with enthusiasm! Question: Along the way will we be covering how to create proposals/presentations? I have no issue asking people for major gifts ( I even asked Donald Trump once!) The most common response I receive is “send in your proposal”, YIKES! So glad I found you and this program.
Grateful~
Tonya Heathco,CEO
NSDF
Sorry for the delayed response – yes – I will plan a post around this for the late summer or early fall. Stay tuned.
Better late than never – I am in! We are looking to grow our program, and I am new in terms of being the one to lead the charge. Looking forward to the challenge!
Its beshert!!! Timing is everything.
I am in.
TY
As a newcomer to the world of development, I am more than ready to take on the challenge.
Thank you!
Erin
I’m ready to go!
Hooray! Keep me posted.
I’m late, but I’m in.
Glad to have you, Katherine!
I was called into an emergency executive board meeting today to deal with a critical cash-flow problem. Today’s answer isn’t permanent so we need to learn some new skills!
I’m ready to take this challenge. Thank you , Amy.
I’m ready to take the challenge for my organization!
I’m new to non-profit fundraising, glad to find this site….AND challenge.
I am ready to learn from a seasoned fundraiser. I am in… whats next!? Thank you in advance for all the knowledge and experience your willing to provide.
I’m starting this week.
I am in and very appreciative of all of the information you pass along. I am ready to make things happen for the students at Mercyhurst Prep in Erie, PA! Thank you, Amy!
I am very new to the major gift world, but am looking forward to the challenge!
I’m in!
I’m in.,
I just stood in my office and took the pledge!
I took the pledge!
I’m in, I’m committed and I’m excited!
Love the challenge concept. Please mark me down, sign me up, and let’s get started! Thanks for the invitation to make such a commitment.
Shannon Grass
CDO
Epworth Children & Family Services
Better late than never! Sounds good to me.
I am in!
Ahh, the beauty of blog posts — over a year later, and your words are STILL making a difference! 😉
I’m in!
I am in!
I’m in for 2014
Hi Amy,
My name is Chelsea Ferraro and I am a Development Coordinator for a small nonprofit on the California Central Coast. I am publicly committing to dedicating 2 hours a week to the Major Gifts Challenge.
I look forward to hearing from you!
-Chelsea
Woo Hoo! Go Chelsea!
Just listened to your Fundraising Summit webinar–thank you for all of the great tips!
My best is yet to be seen in 2015!
Thanks so much! Welcome to the challenge!
IM IN! I know Im late to the party but we are a new 501c3.
Please help us!
I’m super late to the dance, but I’m all in!!!
– Rachel
I have just started in a fundraising role. I’m so glad I found your site.
I am excited for this challenge! I have been stuck doing events, some planned giving, annual giving – but need to focus on stewarding donors and asking for major gifts $1,000 or higher. I want to be a Major Gifts Officer and leave the events to someone else
I’m taking the challenge! Doing 5 hrs a week, got the book in hand, started reading today. Looking forward to this journey, new skills, and getting into action.
I’m in! What a great idea. And I’m always up for a challenge.
Thanks for great opportunity! Full speed ahead!
I’m taking your challenge! So looking forward to this, it’s so hard to find good information on soliciting major gifts. Thank you!
Amy,
I’m glad I found this site. I look forward to taking the challenge. Thanks!
I love a challenge so count me in!
We need this, so yes, count me in.
I’m in and committed!
Love your book; love resources I’ve seen so far. I am in!
Your October 9, 2015 seminar at Woods inspired me. I am in!
Jonathan Solomons
The one thing I have known for sure is never sound like you need the money to survive. I am excited to learn how to get the big bucks. Thank you for the help!
I am in!!
I’m in!
OK Amy – it’s our year. I’m in!
Hello Amy:
I’m responding to the e-mail you just sent me and I’d love to take your challenge. This is an area that’s entirely new to us but is one we know we need to get into, so no time like the present to get started. What do I do next? Bye for now!
I’m up to the task and want to take this challenge. Please sign me up.
I’m in – next steps?
I’m in with a staff who thrives on encouragement.
Was there ever even a question? 😉
I’m in! Let’s do this!
Let’s go!
WIll do. Thank you.
Hi Amy, I’d like to participate – thank you!
This is the year. I’m in!
It’s time to take our Major Donor program seriously – I’m in!
I’ve been in fundraising for years, but this is the first time that I have gone after major gifts and welcome any help and advice!
All on board!
I’m committing to the Major Gifts Challenge for 2016!
I’m in.
I almost didn’t take the pledge because I’m worried me and my organization are not ready. BUT I decided to take it after all. We’ve been in operation since 2002 but have never had a dedicated Development or Communications person. Now we have two (myself included), both of which don’t have any educational background in fundraising! I’m very much looking forward to reading your blog posts and learning everything I can from you. I’M ALL IN!
Hooray, Josie! So glad you are in. Keep us posted!
Perfect timing – I’m in for 2016. Clearly your wisdom is timeless. Thanks, Amy!
Let’s do this!
I’m all in Amy ! I excited and honored and grateful for you willingness to help others be successful at what you do.. Maybe this will blossom into a memebership site.
Thank you Amy, I’m in! Thank you for putting a focus on inspiring others to be their best, the world needs more of you in it.
I’m in too! I’m brand new to fundraising and our organization has a capital campaign challenge to raise 3 million dollars in 3 years to get a matching grant for our new building. I need to learn how to be bold!
I’m in! Our small nonprofit could use some help in creating a real Major Gifts process. I’m excited to see what is in store. Thanks!
I’m in as well. We are a small organization in an area dense with non-profits so fundraising is always a challenge.
Looking forward!
Hi Amy
My organisation is not doing well in fundraising. I am in this time. I am keen to see myself building enough confidence to raise major gifts.
Amy, I’m in.
I am in a challenging position, as we are a religious organization and people feel tapped out and outside funders are sometimes difficult to identify.
Looking forward to your advice.
Jane
I’m finishing up my first week in a newly created Development Officer (Major Gifts) position with a Community Hospice organization. Need to wrap my arms around major gift giving program and process. I’m looking forward to learning some best practices, and making an impact with this organization!
Amy, I’m in. Clearly, arrived late for the party but I’ve been ED for an npo for 15 years and successfully passed the baton to another leader. Now, I’m DD at an organization that I love and get to build the department. I enjoy donor relations and look forward to focusing on this and seeing the organization flourish.
I am all for it!
I’m in! We are celebrating 10yrs of sustained programming this year! We are ready!
I’m in! Could definitely use some guidance.
I’m in!
I’m in.
I commit to the challenge!
Just wondering if the challenge is still in effect. (?)
Yes! You can take the challenge at any time. Read one post per week and move through the exercises at your own pace.
OK, I’m in. After 25 years of corporate and foundation relations in a higher education setting, I’m shifting to an individual major gifts focus as chief development officer at a national nonprofit.
I’m all in!
Aaaaaand, I’m in! New DOD here – actually first one ever and I’ll be needing lots of help!
I’ll do it. Thanks for the encouragement!
I am in
I am in!
I’m new to my organization & ready to make a big difference for our community!
I’m a seasoned fundraiser but am always interested in learning more.
I consider myself a life-long learner as well. Thanks for joining, Michelle!
I accept the challenge. My organization needs to grow in this area of fundraising.
I’m in thanks Amy
I’m in, one Amy to another.
I want our organization to become rich and famous, rather than me – so I’m in.
I’m up for trying it!! Thanks!!
I”m in!
I was very impressed with your promise to lead me through the whole process and my promise is I will always be behind you commited
Awesome, Thomas!
Is this still happening now? Just starting to learn for my job 🙂
Hi Daisy. Yes! This is still happening, however you need to go through it at your own pace (hopefully one post per week). You may also want to join my list, so I can alert you to new posts at http://www.amyeisenstein.com.
This is exactly what I need. I’ve learned a lot from your previous blogs, but my non-profit theatre is about to take on some major fundraising challenges, so I’m both terrified and excited!
Thanks, Jayne! Do you get my weekly fundraising tips? If not, you can sign up at http://www.amyeisenstein.com/join.
Impressed! i would love to learn more becouse am new in the field of fund raising and in Africa fund raising is not easy well i need your help
Hi Amy, I’ve been involved in philanthropy, endowments, major gifts, legacy giving, trusts and foundations for a few years now. I look forward to learning your pearls of wisdom.
I’ll do it because my major is Nonprofit Business Administration and I’ll be CEO one day. I also want to be a volunteer Grantwriter and fundraiser and it’s hard to break into without experience. Have a great week and thank you.
With struglling staus of finacial position here, am in and actively involved. I work with a small organization trying to help blind children attain education and live a good life in the community. With your guidance and expertise, we shall be able to raise moneys to support the organizational activities.
I’m in, Can’t wait!
Hi Amy, I’ve been in the field for several years now and have written/organized mailings, events, major gifts, legacy giving and foundation grant proposals. I look forward to learning all I can from you and incorporating it into my (very) small Development Department.
I am IN! Thank you so much for your current focus on Major Gifts, Amy. This is all so exciting and for me, it couldn’t be better timing!
I am in a brand new role with a big MAjor Gift expectation – and I am not a Major Gift Fundraiser so this will be my training!
Have you joined my list, John? I sent out weekly fundraising tips. Join at http://www.amyeisenstein.com/join.
Sounds good. Jerry Panas recommended 4 per day.
Solid suggestion.
I’m in!
I am definitely in! Even though I have been a fundraiser for a number of years, major gifts has not been my focus. However, I am really encouraging my org to get up and running with MG and a lot of it will be on me so I need all the help I can get!
Thanks!
I’m in! 🙂
I’m in!
So, I first learned of this opportunity at the AFP International Conference in San Antonio, TX. March, 2014 I think. It’s been on my mind ever since. It’s time to finally take action. I’m finally signing on because like you said, without the commitment it doesn’t happen. Continuing to do the same things gets the same results. This year needs to be different so I will be different. Step one – Major Gifts Challenge!
I am excited to see what you have. Lets do this.
I’m in!
I am a one person dev department with a non-fundraising board but I am ready to get some major gift training and kick some serious fundraising butt! Thank you.
Yes, would love to participate in this challenge.
Hi Amy,
Is it too late to join the challenge?
If not, I am in.
It’s never too late! Glad to have you! Join my list at http://www.amyeisenstein.com/join.
Yes, I would like to participate in the challenge!
I am ready for the challenge!!!!
I’m in! Really looking forward to meeting you in person at this year’s Maritime AFP Conference in Nova Scotia too!
I have been reading your blog posts for months without taking action. I just came across this today and I am ready!
Amy, I attended your webinar (with Guidestar) a couple of days ago, and I was inspired! Although not exactly new at Development (15 years now), I learned SO MUCH during your presentation that I’d like to implement right away. Starting with the board members at my org to make sure that they are participating at 100%.
You’ve taken what’s been one of the most exhilarating yet intimidating parts of my career, and made it more doable.
I’ve pledged to commit at least five hours per week to our major gifts program.
your fangirl, Juanita
Hooray!!!
I’m in!