Communicate early and often. This is key to philanthropic fundraising success and nonprofits need support now more than ever. Organizations need to meet donors where they are, build trust with their supporters, and cultivate strong two-way relationships.

Live events. They provide organizations with the opportunity to have personal interactions with their supporters, which is critical to the success of their mission. In 2021, live events may be scaled back, but they will be back and better than ever.

Brands evolve. Market competition changes, leadership pursues a rebrand, or an unexpected crisis occurs. Brand consistency is vital to remain effective and relevant in every situation—what story are you telling, how are you reaching your audience, and how are you managing your reputation.

Mission should be at the center of your brand. As a company, you decide what you stand for, what you support, and how you will make an impact on your community and beyond. Every company wants to do good, but a steadfast set of values can help you approach the important practice of aligning giving to your business mission.

“I hope the good found you and that the great awaits.” This year may have brought challenges, losses, and uncertainties, but as we wrap up 2020, we are struck with the shining moments of generosity and humanity that created powerful support for so many in need. People have continued to give to the missions they believe in and have proven that optimism truly does exist in philanthropy.

Virtual event trends evolve every day. Technology solutions are creating new opportunities to develop quality content that lives on and engage new supporters for your organization. With the help of the right partners, you can bring your virtual vision to life through strategy, innovation, and implementation.

The 2021 Texas legislative session will undoubtedly be like no other session before. Procedures will be different. Priorities may shift. Legislators, lobbyists, and the like will be exploring and analyzing issues from an entirely new perspective.

The live event industry will recover. It may not look like it did before, but the industry will prevail and event professionals, venues, and organizations will return to doing what they love. We must push forward; we must implement creativity, flexibility and safety to thrive once again.

Mentorship. The time spent investing in employees and mentees—teaching them, learning from them and collaborating with them—is time well spent. Successful people and businesses are built on good relationships. It’s all about creating powerful connections, working hard and creating your own luck.

Your brand. It’s who you are and what you teach others about you. And people want REAL. They want honest, sincere communication and transparency. A brand builds trust through clear and concise messages that are authentic and true to who they are at the core.