Give and Take

Adding new members to your board of directors
Board Engagement
Viken Mikaelian

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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searching how to create an online will
For Donors
Viken Mikaelian

How to Create an Online Will to Protect Your Loved Ones 

Many American families are left to deal with the financial and emotional fall-out left in the wake of their loved one’s death.  It’s not often that you think about it, but it’s never too late to get prepared. And getting a customized will done is often very simple and straightforward using an online will service. 

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Three people show love heart shape
For Donors
Patrick O'Donnell

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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asking for money and money being handed over
Fundraising Consulting
Viken Mikaelian

The Art & Science of Asking for Money

There’s a difference between being a beggar and a fundraiser. Don’t conflate asking for money with groveling. You’re not demeaning yourself by asking for money. It’s actually a privilege.

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Writing a letter or note
Planned Giving
Viken Mikaelian

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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man planning at the computer
For Donors
Viken Mikaelian

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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eBook Cover - 25 Ways to Influence Others

25 Ways to Influence Others

Influencing others is a skill that can be learned and developed into an art form. Here are some easy techniques to help you to develop your influence.