∗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: […]
Straight talk about donor love
Is the idea of donor love just fluff? The answer depends on you. But first, let’s clear a few things up. Maybe it will make you more comfortable. Here’s what donor love isn’t: Donor love isn’t romantic Donor love isn’t exclusive Donor love isn’t extraneous This is love in the sense of philanthropy. That is, […]
Who is that newsletter for anyway?
Newsletter fails make me sad. The tagline said “thanking those who make a difference”, but I don’t think that’s me. Why? Because out of maybe 15 articles in the newsletter, 10 refer to large individual or foundation gifts. Like, millions large. And while the stated purpose of this newsletter is thanks, the headlines read like […]
Your annual giving toolkit – part one
Annual giving is a process To create a successful annual giving program, you need to think beyond the once a year appeal. Fundraising is relationship-building. When your donors hear from you once a year – and that one communication is an ask – how valued do you think they feel? They probably don’t even remember […]
How to create a donor communications calendar
How well are you communicating with your donors? A communications calendar is a combination of messaging and timing. You can create the most amazing appeal letter, but if it’s the only time your donors hear from you this year, you aren’t communicating well. Or you can communicate constantly, but still miss because your channels or […]