How to begin preparing for the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) application and exam
For those interested, in the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, the most often asked question is, "How do I prepare for the application and the exam?"Well, for starters, the CFRE is the first globally recognized credential…
How a gift range chart can help you raise more money even in your small nonprofit
One might think that gift range charts are just for large projects such as capital campaigns or for significant fundraising efforts. And, while, yes, there is some truth to that, gift range charts can be used effectively in even the smallest…
How to run a successful Mother’s Day fundraising campaign
At the start of Spring, our thoughts turn to flowers, sunshine, and our Mom's! And, for many nonprofit organizations, this is a great direct mail theme and just in time for a Spring appeal.So, how can you maximize this appeal to give your…
What’s next after your capital campaign feasibility study?
So, your consultant has just finished your capital campaign feasibility study. The report is sitting on your desk, and you are wondering, where do I go from here?Here are some possibilities:The report may recommend that the organization…
Donor cultivation and stewardship – it’s all unique and one-of-a-kind!
I often get asked from my clients, how many touchpoints do you need to give to a donor at a certain level?And, my answer - it varies.There is some science to the whole matter. In fact, after I conduct a rating and ranking session, I will…
The revolving fundraising door at our organizations
What is going on out there?For the past year, I have watched development jobs come and go on the job boards.I lamented that folks like myself with over 20 years of experience, certifications, and education were getting passed up for the…
New “DCS” interim development services
Development Consulting Solutions is announcing NEW interim and project-based service offerings:Who is “DCS”?
There are limited Certified Fund-Raising Executives (CFRE) providing outsourced fund development services and serving as interim…
Do not take Fund Development best practices at face value!
Best practices. We hear that phrase often. This week, I even read a question asking if "best practices were misleading?"Are we throwing that phrase around to legitimize our field? Our do we have best practices and what are they?Well, I contend…
Is your fear of asking causing you to make assumptions for your donors?
Let's cut to the chase. I know, and you know that one of the biggest things that stop us from being effective in our fundraising is fear. Good old, heart pumping, nail biting, fear.Recently, I had a conversation with some folks, and I…
Is scarcity stopping you from asking for a major gift?
Do these phrases sound familiar to you?"I never have enough money!"
"Money goes out faster than it comes in!"
"Money doesn't grow on trees!"How often have we heard these phrases growing up? Well, if you were like me, probably a lot. As…
Let’s talk about YOU, not me!
Research has shown that people like to talk about themselves. And, there is a reason why. It stimulates areas of the brain. It makes them physically feel good to talk about themselves – stimulating the same areas in the brain that sex, cocaine,…
What does your body language say about you in fundraising?
Recently, I had some conversations with a former co-worker. Her outlook and atmosphere had changed so dramatically that I had pause and ask, what is different. Well, she set me on the course of all of her "research" on the importance of human…
