I've just reviewed results from three middle/major donor integrated direct response fundraising campaigns that my teams managed for various social service organizations over the last year. The numbers are astonishing!...
The Kimbia crash should make us re-think community crowdfunding efforts
This afternoon I read an article about The Pittsburgh Foundation's efforts to pressure Kimbia into making restitution for the disastrous crash of their system on the national Day of Giving...
Cultivating trust-based relationships with major donors
How exactly DO you build trust with donors? What are some of the most effective tools and and strategies you can use to develop authentic, trusting relationships with donors? If...
10 bad decisions nonprofits make
I'm going to rant for a minute here. Over the last six months I've explored more than five dozen nonprofit development operations, and in many ways I've been disappointed at...
Building your leadership cabinet
Every leader needs a leadership cabinet. A small group of advisers who help you be the best you possible. And who help keep you grounded, focused, and honest. In most cases...
8 ideas to raise more money from middle and major donors
I've shared these 8 key ideas with over 50 nonprofits in the last two months. Over the next two months I'll be with 30-50 more nonprofits sharing the same thoughts and tips. Chances...
Leadership lessons from 2015
2015 was quite a year. Truth be told, it was the most challenging, most frustrating, and most energizing year of my career (so far). It was a year of significant...
Raising major gifts
Today's guest post is from my good friend and colleague, Karen Erren. As a career nonprofit executive and fundraising leader, Karen has spent more than 20 years building, growing, and leading...
7 #Nonprofit Blog Posts You Shouldn’t Miss
If you’re like the dozens of other fundraisers I know, chances are you’re pretty busy these days. But you still want to be learning and sharpening your skills too. Here’s...
This #fundraising mistake could cost you 7-figures
I’ve seen something interesting lately. It’s come up five times in the last three months in discussions with nonprofits about their major gift programs. What I’m seeing is a change...