Back in the “before times,” glittery galas were unquestionably a fundraising staple in the nonprofit world. But of course, the pandemic turned everything topsy-turvy, and virtual events became the name of the game.
This year has been rocked by events that highlight America’s racism and income inequality. For many of us who are white, it has also been a year of soul searching, and of making sure that our fundraising work doesn’t contribute to the very system of bias we’re working to eradicate.
Often, our habits are not only perpetuating classism/racism, but also cause us to overlook individuals who would make wonderful board members, donors, and stakeholders.
Of course, there are many actions needed to take to become an active ally. Here are six important steps to get your organization started:
The underlying principles of fundraising have remained unchanged for decades. Even as the nonprofit landscape changes, core concepts like the importance of donor relationships and outreach are not going anywhere. However, the application of these principles has changed dramatically over time, especially with the rise in digital technology and online fundraising in recent years.
At the time this is being written, the final tax reform bill has not yet been finalized with different versions in the House and Senate; however, several aspects of the proposed Tax Cuts and Jobs Bill seem likely to end up in whatever final version can be fashioned and approved. These proposals ought to raise alarm bells for charities of all kinds. The following current proposed tax changes will likely impact the decisions of prospective donors in the future.
Today’s donors are more independent, more engaged with how their gifts will be used, and more demanding about how nonprofits treat them and their contributions.
This term “donor centered fundraising” is used a lot in the fundraising world. The term was brought into popularity by Penelope Burk in her book of the same title, in which she defines donor centered fundraising as “an approach to raising money that inspires donors to remain loyal longer and give more generously.”
When preparing for a campaign, nonprofits have two main options to consider — capital campaign (also called a focused campaign) or comprehensive campaign?