Rethinking Fundraising
Fundraising, at its core, is about fostering meaningful relationships and connections, about engaging all three pillars—abilities, giving, and passion.
Understanding Philanthropy
Philanthropy is about loving people in relationships toward something larger than ourselves. Its outcome is significance—adding value to a person. The journey to the summit often unfolds on the sides of the mountain, where we find richness in shared relationships, engaging all that we are.
Restoring Philanthropy
At the heart of philanthropy is renewal and the discovery of an organization's soul. Confidence and faith in the common good go when this is lost.
Giving USA 2023
I think our key takeaway is that Americans are generous people who gave generously and some factors cloud a bit what we take away from the top-line numbers of giving. If we understand the two points above, it helps us put into a deeper perspective that last year was a very strong year for giving and that we have lots of reason to be optimistic for 2023.
Relational Philanthropy
Strong organizations are built on strong relationships. Relational philanthropy reminds us that lasting impact comes from listening, building trust, and investing in long-term donor partnerships rather than one-time transactions. By nurturing meaningful connections, organizations create lasting change that benefits donors, the mission, and the communities they serve.
Giving in Perspective
We know that people are still giving, and the number one reason they stop giving is because they don’t think anyone cares. The number one reason they don’t give is because no one invited them to give.
What is Philanthropy
Literally, philanthropy means love of man. It comes from the Greek root word “philos,” meaning “to love.” “Anthro” comes from the Greek word, “humanity or man.” Philanthropy simply means to love humanity or love of humankind.
Building Impact
As we approach fall, I have been thinking about the role of the board as a partner in building and inviting donor relationships. This especially applies for those of you who do a comprehensive donor invitation/solicitation in the fall. The board carries the brand and the integrity of the organization to the donor. They often set the perception.
Are You Growing Philanthropy?
I thought this month I would share a refresher about philanthropy. I wrote this simple article on philanthropy, below, after a few requests to revisit philanthropy as a fundamental principle.
Philanthropy Begins With Relationship
I encourage you to think about how you are allowing your organization to be served by those who care for the common cause. How are they serving? Are you building an organizational culture that seeks to engage people because they want to serve as part of their own growth journey and fulfillment, or just because we think we need them for survival?
Investing in People
Investing in people, donors, staff, and volunteers is always a sound strategy. It demonstrates true philanthropy--love of mankind--and how the power we have to change the world together starts with taking care of each other. Thank you for all you do.