Everybody is nobody From time to time, I get an email from someone looking for fundraising help. They want to know how they can get their message out to everyone. So, first, let me clear something up: fundraising consultants do not have a magic contact list you can use. And while I admire their conviction […]
Dear fundraiser: are you making these big mistakes?
∗This post was originally published several years ago. I’ve updated it to include some helpful comments from colleagues. I hope you enjoy it! Dear Fundraiser, Some things you do really bug me. As your colleague, I’m cheering for your success. So in a helpful spirit, I offer you my list below. I wish you wouldn’t: […]
How to reach donors with a personal touch
I’ve said it before. Good fundraising is always one to one. That’s true even if you’re communicating with thousands. It should always feel one to one. That should always be your aim, even if it takes a little more effort. But when is the last time you really made a personal effort? OK, my major […]
Advanced Donor Stewardship: How to Keep Your Donors Giving Year after Year
by Joe Garecht Stewardship is one of the most important components of the fundraising process. Prospecting, cultivation, and asking are certainly important… but in my experience, building a strong donor stewardship system should be your top priority if you want to strengthen your development program. For many fundraisers, this comes as a surprise. That’s because […]
Beware these pitfalls if you want to raise more money
Indulge me, will you? There are some common words or phrases that I see in too many appeals (and annual reports or even thank you letters) that set my teeth on edge. You’ll find me, almost daily, sorting my mail and shaking my head. So here, for your amusement or education, are a few. […]