Basic Principles of Fund Development
What are the key messages that you want your staff and board members to understand? How do you define the basic principles of fund development? Here’s my current list—current, I say, because as time passes, maybe I’ll modify it. To check for any modifications, visit my website at www.simonejoyaux.com. For now, read on. Use Appendix 1-A, “Basic Principles of Fund Development,” on this book’s website to stimulate conversation with your staff and board. Make sure everyone is using common vocabulary for your conversations. Check the definitions earlier in this chapter.
Culture of Philanthropy
The right attitude matters as much as anything. Culture refers to the personality and attitude of your organization. A culture of philanthropy means that everyone accepts and celebrates the beauty of philanthropy and donors, no matter the type or size of the gift. It’s your job as a leader to nurture a culture of philanthropy in your organization. See Chapter 3 for more.
Donor-Centered Organization
Successful fund development requires donor centrism.25 Focus on the donor or prospective donor. “It’s not what your organization is selling; it’s what I’m buying that counts. I’m interested in my interests, my motivations, and my aspirations. Match those and then I’ll give to you. Otherwise, leave me alone!”
Don’t universalize your own passion. Not everyone is interested in your cause, no matter how convincing you are. Do not try to convince them! That’s offensive. ...
Get Strategic Fund Development: Building Profitable Relationships That Last, Third Edition now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
