Fundraising

Good fundraising is not about wealth extraction from certain individuals. It is not about targets or transactions. It is about building relationships with people who care about your mission. Nonprofits with vital missions provide donors with the opportunity to connect with the best part of themselves—their generosity. 

I have worked with families of substantial wealth for over two decades. Understanding why they give is key to ongoing support and success. I can help you articulate the value and impact of your organization. Using listening skills with donors, we can uncover connections for lasting relationships that grow over time. Know when to ask, know how much to ask, and learn how to thank. 

Here are three ways I can help you fundraise more effectively:

Audit 

A good fundraising program has a solid infrastructure. You need back office support, a committed board, a working database, clear communication strategy and tools, and most of all a succinct and compelling vision of where you need to go – one that will inspire others to follow you.  

A fundraising audit is one way to understand fundraising capacity. I can complete an audit in about three months for most organizations. Through a review of metrics, gift processing, donor history, policies, resources allocation, and more, we can clearly define where your organization’s strengths and weaknesses are and where investments can be made for the highest return. Further qualitative assessment with staff and leadership, and interviews with donors can reveal data-driven suggestions for where to focus your precious resources to fundraise successfully for the long term.

Plan Development

There are many types of plans for increasing fundraising at your organization. Whether growing your annual fund, bolstering major gifts, creating a planned giving program, or planning for a larger campaign, I can help. All solid plans include: budget goals, strategies, tactics, a strategic use of events, defined staffing and volunteer roles, and a schedule for appeals. A good plan fills in organizational gaps and builds on strengths, especially in the deployment of staff and volunteer time. We will make use of interviews, performance metrics, and review benchmarks for best practice. Together we can map out a play book to ensure your activities are all linked to results, and we can build enthusiasm and clarity for the role of philanthropy in your organization.

Campaign Counsel 

Launching a capital campaign may be the most serious undertaking for any nonprofit. Many nonprofits have no experience in this arena. With so much at stake, it is key have experienced and informed counsel that knows the regional philanthropy landscape. I have raised over $100 million in campaign funds. I can lead you through a successful campaign and leave your organization with skills that will last long after the campaign concludes.