Fundraising For Dummies, 4th Edition

Chapter 2

Embracing Fundraising with a Passion

IN THIS CHAPTER

Finding the spark that brought you to nonprofit work

Building service with passion

Plugging in with social media platforms

Fundraising folks have an old saying: “People don’t give to causes. People give to people with causes.” This saying means you’re one of the most important parts of the fundraising process. Your inspiration, your perspiration, your passion. So now comes the hard part: What are you passionate about?

Chances are good that passion for a particular cause led you to the field of fundraising in the first place. Oh, sure, you find professional fundraisers who are interested first and foremost in turning a fast buck and changing jobs as often as they change their clothes. But those people are few and far between in my experience. The majority of people are drawn to organizations because they see a need — up close and personal — and because they feel compelled to do what they can to make a difference. When you’re part of a mission that’s close to your heart, the potential for creative effort and action increases, and others are inspired and attracted to what you’re doing.

Not only is that spark of passion ...