Give and Take

Various artwork for the blog guide to planned giving program
Planned Giving
Patrick O'Donnell

How to Start a Planned Giving Program: A Comprehensive Guide

Did you know that learning how to start a planned giving program can secure your nonprofit’s long-term financial stability?

It’s a fact—and it’s one successful nonprofits have been using to their advantage for decades. If you’re ready to go beyond annual giving and unlock a more sustainable future through legacy gifts, read on. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of starting a planned giving program.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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 …

Read More »
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. 

Read More »
Major Gifts vs Annual Gifts
Major Gifts
Viken Mikaelian

Major Gifts vs Annual Gifts

If you are involved in the nonprofit world, you have probably heard a lot of the unique terminology that comes with the industry. While veteran executive directors and fundraisers are used to hearing the word “major gifts,” many people are confused when first introduced to the concept. And there’s even more to complicate the matter …

Read More »
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.

Read More »

Stay Informed!

Webinars, free downloads, tax law changes, more. Subscribe today. You can unsubscribe at anytime.

planned giving website

Just getting into planned giving?

Educate donors and build instant credibility, authority and trust with our planned giving micro website.

You’ll need 88% to pass!
Every planned gift is a major gift. Get educated today.

Stay informed with timely news. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Please select: