Major Moves

Strategy, donor psychology, leadership, and the uncomfortable truths behind the largest gifts in philanthropy.
GIVING magazine, Karen Alonso on Cover, United Way Las Vegas, AFP Chapter President

Giving Magazine

For those who drive change — not watch it. Join the top 1%.

Recruiting Board Members: Who, What, How, When, Why

If you work for a nonprofit organization, you know a strong board is a necessity. Nonprofit board members act as an organization’s fiduciary they can provide governance, review the executive director’s performance, and approve important policy decisions. That’s a lot of responsibility, so it’s important you get the right people for your board.

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Blended Gifts in a Capital Campaign. Where Do They Fit In? 

Blended gifts are growing in popularity. Development pros are beginning to understand how a blended gift can fulfill a donor’s aspirational giving, allowing them to make a much larger gift than they had imagined possible. The current economic climate has resulted in more cautious giving. Donors are taking their time making a large outright gift, which is why using blended gifts during a campaign can be a successful strategy.

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The Perils of Public Speaking 

Being a presenter or speaker is always a challenge. You do not know how the audience is going to respond, and projecting confidence while keeping a good sense of humor is paramount.  

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How to Bring New Members to Your Board of Directors 

Becoming a nonprofit board member is a rewarding experience, but it can be overwhelming if there isn’t an effective onboarding process for new members. Studies have found that almost half of all nonprofit board members would say their organizations didn’t have a “defined onboarding process.” This is significant because a board member who is only half prepared is, at most, half effective. 

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How to Create an Online Will to Protect Your Loved Ones 

Online will platforms are changing how and when donors engage in estate planning. This article examines the strategic implications for nonprofits, outlines differences between online and attorney-drafted wills, and provides practical guidance for ensuring accurate charitable designations. Planned giving professionals must adapt to protect donor intent and institutional stability in an increasingly digital planning environment.

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31 Quality Questions to Ask Planned Giving and Major Gifts donors and Prospects

Do you struggle to generate exceptional questions for donor interviews? Then struggle no more: This post will show you a guaranteed way to generate thought-provoking interview questions that generate comprehensive, high-quality answers. And the best part is, whether it’s an interview for a donor story, annual report, board report, newsletter story — even a job or candidate interview — all of these skills will translate. Plus, we’ve included 31 sample questions that you can adapt for your next donor interview.

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CEO Note

If my name were in your database, it would be flagged as an ideal planned giving prospect. Why? I’m over 60. I own a business and real estate (which can be planned gifts). I have no kids. I give annually to a number of charities.

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Five Reasons Your Donors Need a Free Online Will Planner

You should already be promoting the importance of estate planning (and by extension, marketing your planned giving program) to your donors. We offer a simple toolkit to cover most needs. But to really help your donors—who in turn, will help you—you need a free online will planner incorporated in your planned giving website.

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Every planned gift is a major gift. Get educated today.