How to create a manual that ensures your database stays clean and up to date
Now that December is here, I have been running many lists and queries and during those list pulls, I have noted inconsistent data in databases that have caused numerous complications during one of the busiest times of the year.
As a result,…
How to recruit the best fundraising volunteers possible
Fundraising volunteers are critical to our success as they are the "ambassadors" of our fundraising efforts. I often get asked, what is the best way of recruiting them to join in fundraising efforts?
And, while I believe that, in some cases,…
How to run your annual fund like a capital campaign
Annual campaigns can be run just like capital campaigns. Yes, you heard it right. Far too often, I see an annual campaign as only a single, direct mail campaign. However, you can apply the same campaign structure to annual campaigns as you…
How to approach your major donors during your calendar year-end campaign
When organizations start to segment their calendar year-end appeal letters, they often start off with segmenting out active donors and non-active donors. Far too many organizations don't think of segmenting out their major donors for more…
How to follow-up on your calendar year-end appeal once it is mailed
Now that your calendar year-end appeal has gone out in the mail, what is left to do?
Well, if you take the "sit back and wait" approach you will be missing out for your organization.
Here are some follow-up steps that you may want to consider…
How to ensure the health of your development program through your annual fund
Often, groups wonder, on what should I focus most throughout my annual fund?
Over the years, I have determined the most critical factors for ensuring that a development program is not only healthy but thriving.
The health of a development…
How to facilitate a donor prospect rating session
While wealth screening is an essential tool for fundraisers of today, I still hold true to augmenting a screening with the old "tried and true" Prospect Rating and Ranking Session.
What is a Rating and Ranking Session and how would you hold…
How to easily verify your annual report donor honor roll
Quite plainly, one thing that is known for sure is that donors appreciate the fact that you get their name spelled correctly, especially when you are thanking them for past giving. When it comes time to thank them in your Annual Report or…
Using a gift chart to validate a fundraising goal and campaign
When you have been presented with a fundraising goal, the best next step is to determine the feasibility of that goal. One of the most challenging tasks is setting out to accomplish a fundraising goal without knowing whether or not you have…
Engage your Board in your calendar year-end fundraising campaign
Engage your Board in your calendar year-end fundraising campaign
When running your next year-end campaign, it is essential that your Board sends a loud, clear message to its constituents that it supports the organization's mission. The Board…
Create an “evergreen” grants management system
Ever wonder the best way to approach your foundation research? Not sure where to begin or what tools to use? Don't want to have to do research over and over again each year? Do you have changing priorities that need constant research? …
Using a mini-feasibility study to determine the strategy of your next fundraising campaign
Ever wonder as to what is the best course to take with your fundraising strategy? Let's say that you have been given a challenge match by a donor or you have a fundraising goal that the Board has given to you to raise.
The question becomes not…
