Give and Take

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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angry bird looking at camera
Estate Planning
Viken Mikaelian

A Lesson from an Early Bird

I picked up my coffee this morning at our local WaWa (for those of you who aren’t on the East Coast, you’ll have to Google that) and drove to our office in Valley Forge, PA. After an uneventful, pleasant drive that gave me a little extra planning time, I pulled into my parking space ready to start the day. I opened the door to get out …

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getting higher responses to newsletters
Fundraising Strategy
Viken Mikaelian

Low Response to Planned Giving Newsletters? Here’s What You’re Doing Wrong  

If you have been in the fundraising industry for a while, you probably remember a time when planned giving newsletters were a surefire way to connect with donors. While the majority of people still prefer direct mail as a form of communication over e-mail, the popularity of planned giving newsletters has dwindled. Planned giving newsletters still produce benefits and are an important tool in hitting donation targets, but they must be sent with a clear strategy and must target the correct people. 

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Woman In Front of PC Writing Her Will
Bequest
Gretel DeRuiter

Q&A with Viken Mikaelian Re Online Will Planner

The number one reason some nonprofits do not want a will maker on their planned giving website is because they know “better.” Fundraisers are deeply rooted in their belief that a donor should use an attorney to draft a will. True. But it’s not our decision.

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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.