How do we build an individual donor base for our organization? I’m glad that you want to strengthen your approach to individuals because statistically, they are the most engaged and generous source of donors. According to Giving USA 2009 (with...
This is just a reminder to readers that what's contained in these monthly musings is my account of best practices (in 1500 words or less). I urge you to share these articles with your leadership team who make the difficult...
I’m the sole fundraiser in a mid-sized organization. I’ve read the CRA Fundraising Guidance, their supporting document, Mark Blumberg’s materials, and attended the AFP webinar with Terry Carter and I’m still confused...can you help? First and foremost, you are doing...
I want to ensure our grant proposal to a foundation makes it through the initial screening process and gets real consideration. How do I make that happen? Great question! Last month we spoke about getting the "corporate ear"...let's now examine...
I'm the executive director of a charity in a small city of about 65,000 people. How do I get local and national businesses to make donations? Unfortunately, what you are asking is often easier said than done. While it's important...
What do I need to know about Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)'s new Guidance on Fundraising? That's an excellent question for all of us to ask...even with 20+ years in the profession! Go to the CRA website to find the new...
What do you mean our charitable tax receipts are incomplete? We’ve been using the same ones for the last 20 years! I won’t pretend to be the authority on tax receipting. I’d prefer to leave that up to Canada Revenue...
We've reached the end of our rope. One of our funders has extended a grant to ensure we survive this year, but how do we prove to them (and others) that we're a viable organization? Ouch...that's a really hard question...
How can I get my board more involved in fundraising? This is an excellent question that I'm frequently asked by staff members. One of the main reasons I encourage you to share these monthly articles with your board is because...
You mean I have to talk to them?! This question came up in a discussion about cultivating donors and prospects. Last month, our inaugural Fundraising Q & A focused on advice for tough times. We explored a variety of options...
