Just Ask - Rethinking Development

“What in the world does that mean?” How many times have you said this looking at a record someone else made in your non-profit’s database? Over time, there is a tendency for a database to acquire all kinds of words and symbols which means something to the recorder at the time. However, future database users are left puzzled. Is there a better way to decipher jargon? Greg highlights how you can create an organizational “Rosetta Stone” to end the confusion.

Thank. Your. Donors. Almost any fundraiser will tell you it’s important to thank your donors, and yet, many nonprofits still fail to do this well. Bryan lays out why you should thank your donors, who is worth thanking, and some practical advice on how to implement better thank you protocols.

Over 30 years in consulting, Greg has noticed a common trait in all great Development Directors: they’re really good at getting stuff done. Unproductive or inefficient meetings can often be a roadblock to get things done. This week, Greg highlights how to get more stuff done in meetings.

Over 30 years in consulting, Greg has noticed a common trait in all great Development Directors: they’re really good at getting stuff done. So how do they execute their daily to-dos so well? Greg reveals how to get stuff done in development.

Running a campaign is hard enough, but what do you do when your goal goes up? Do you have to cut the vision or can the new number be met? Drawing from his own experience of a $21.5 million campaign that rose to over $31.5 million, Bryan shares steps you should take to address a higher goal. This is part two of a two part series. Greg and Bryan cover strong practicals in this episode.

Running a campaign is hard enough, but what do you do when your goal goes up? Do you have to cut the vision or can the new number be met? Drawing from his own experience of a $21.5 million campaign that rose to over $31.5 million, Bryan shares steps you should take to address a higher goal. This is part one of a two part series.

How do you effectively create or grow an endowment? More specifically, Greg dives into how to build up a Catholic school endowment. He argues for a broader approach to building your endowment than just asking the ultra wealthy “needle in the haystack” benefactor to make a transformative donation. Get out your pen and paper as Greg breaks down a specific strategy to build out your endowment.

We continue our discussion on whether you should make pursue a do-it-yourself (DIY) campaign rather than hire a consultant. You won’t want to miss this episode as Greg and Bryan share the 5 criteria to know you’re ready for a DIY campaign. As a consultant for over 30 years, Greg brings tried and true wisdom to this topic.

You need to build a new school, hire another staff member, or do a renovation. Whatever the need, you find yourself in a position to start a campaign. The big question: should you do-it-yourself (DIY) or hire a consultant? Bryan discusses with Greg why you might just be better off doing it yourself. This is part one of a two-part discussion.

How can you secure major gifts for your non-profit? Are great major gift officers born with a certain “pedigree?” Bryan delves into the critical factors necessary for major gifts.