Blog

Autumn brings harvests, and times of thanks for many blessings. October is set aside to thank those who minister to us — those working to lead and aid ministries. Because we so often lean on them in their jobs, those in the ministry are often overlooked when it’s time for recognition. It’s part of their […]

Changing lives — isn’t that what philanthropy is ultimately about? Billionaire Robert F. Smith did just that in June during his commencement speech at Morehouse College. To the surprise of everyone in attendance, he announced he’d be paying off the student loans for every 2019 graduating senior at the private black men’s college in Atlanta,

Staying in touch with donors, letting them know you’re thinking of them, is part of major gift fundraising. Anyone can send out the organizational swag, but personalizing a gift is always the better way to go. This doesn’t mean an engraved silver box — though there’s nothing wrong with that. The gift can be small,

Building trust is simply building a relationship that is founded on honesty and sincerity as well as transparency. Small measures over time reveal who you are, and build a trust that encourages the interaction of the donor. These are some tried and true ways to build trust: Listen. Engage the donor in conversation that helps you

It can be troublesome when an organization is compromised in some way that taints its reputation. There is wariness from donors as well as others who are now putting the group under a microscope. Getting out of the maelstrom requires solid leadership that trickles down to the lowest volunteer. Still, as someone once said, “A reputation