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Leadership

Hardball in Leadership: No Excuses, Just Results

Want to enhance your career? Get ahead of your peers? Fun spoiler: avoid happy hour with team members. In this no-nonsense post, we outline hardball leadership tactics for nonprofits and philanthropic organizations that drive impact. Say goodbye to the complacency of “softball” leadership and hello to insider strategies you won’t find anywhere else. Learn to show up early, act decisively, and foster innovation that resonates with donors and stakeholders. Ready to leave mediocrity behind? Dive in for breakthrough tips that deliver lasting results.

Viken Mikaelian February 22, 2025 No Comments

An image of a gift with a bar chart in the background, symbolizing the shifting economy and resulting decline in giving.

Fundraising Strategy

A $65 Billion Wake-Up Call for Nonprofits—How to Survive the Shift

The nonprofit sector is facing a major shift—individual giving has dropped by $65 billion between 2021 and 2023. Using Giving USA 2024 and IRS data, we see that donations fell from $439.11 billion in 2021 to $374.40 billion in 2023. Economic factors like inflation, reduced disposable income, and fading stimulus funds are driving this decline. Nonprofits must adapt by strengthening annual giving, diversifying revenue streams, and prioritizing planned giving to secure long-term support. This is not just a temporary trend—it’s a wake-up call. The time to act is now. Are you prepared for the future of fundraising?

Jonathan Gudema February 14, 2025 1 Comment

Commitement — Small figures holding up a sign of letters spelling it out

Stewardship

Turning One-Time Gifts into Multi-Year Commitments: Strategies for Major Donor Fundraising

Multi-year commitments are a game-changer for nonprofits, providing stable, predictable funding that enables long-term growth and impact. Instead of constantly seeking new one-time gifts, organizations can focus on deeper donor relationships and sustained mission success. Identifying ideal prospects, crafting personalized proposals, and structuring flexible pledge agreements are key to securing these commitments. By maintaining engagement through updates, exclusive briefings, and meaningful recognition, nonprofits can ensure donors feel valued and invested. Implementing these strategies transforms fundraising efforts, allowing organizations to plan confidently, expand programs, and build a lasting foundation for continued philanthropic support.

Joe Garecht February 12, 2025 No Comments

Strategy

Are we Tribalistic in Nature?

Tribalism is deeply ingrained in human nature, shaping how we form connections, build trust, and make decisions—including charitable giving. Donors align with organizations that reflect their values and sense of belonging, making fundraising a process of fostering relationships rather than simple transactions. Understanding this psychology is crucial for securing major and planned gifts. Learn how to leverage donor tribes effectively through expert insights, including those from Dr. Russell James, and explore professional development opportunities like the Major Gifts Boot Camp.

Viken Mikaelian February 12, 2025 No Comments

Job Promotion

Beyond “Difficult” Bosses: The Reality Check You Didn’t Know You Needed

Have you ever considered how your boss perceives you? Executives often emphasize qualities like effective communication, task completion, attention to detail, a genuine desire to grow in your role, proactive engagement, and personalized interactions. Reflecting on these areas can significantly impact your career advancement. Additionally, navigating the complexities of different leadership styles is crucial. For instance, former President Jimmy Carter’s leadership was characterized by humility and kindness, which some misconstrued as weakness. In contrast, Donald Trump’s assertive and transactional approach to leadership has been both praised and criticized. Understanding these dynamics can help you adapt and thrive in various professional environments.

Viken Mikaelian February 10, 2025 No Comments

Time Management

6 Ways to Make Time for YOU in Your Hectic Life

Struggling to find time for yourself in a packed schedule? 6 Ways to Make Time for YOU in Your Hectic Life offers practical tips to help you prioritize self-care without sacrificing productivity. Learn how to set boundaries, eliminate time-wasters, and carve out moments for what truly matters. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or fundraising goals, these strategies will help you reclaim balance and avoid burnout. Your well-being is just as important as your to-do list—start making time for YOU today! Read the full article now.

Sarah Pinto February 6, 2025 No Comments

Time Management

7 Unusual Cures and Remedies for Procrastination

Highlighting tasks by turning them into a challenge are the unconventional approaches to overcome procrastination and boost productivity.

Viken Mikaelian February 5, 2025 No Comments

Major Gifts

Crafting the Perfect Major Donor Ask: Techniques for Personalizing Your Pitch

In “Crafting the Perfect Major Donor Ask,” Joe Garecht provides essential guidance for nonprofits seeking to enhance their major donor fundraising through personalization. The article emphasizes moving beyond generic solicitations to create meaningful connections, covering crucial aspects like donor research, understanding motivations, customizing pitches, and maintaining relationships. Garecht details how organizations can align their needs with donor passions, balance emotional storytelling with data-driven results, and execute well-timed asks. The piece offers practical strategies for handling objections, following up effectively, and transforming transactional fundraising into lasting partnerships that sustain organizational missions.

Joe Garecht February 3, 2025 No Comments