As a follow-up to last week’s post in which we offered some general advice from “real world” funders on how nonprofits should operate, this week we’d like to share with you some red flags that funders see when it comes to requests. The following are a list of no-no’s when it comes to putting together… Read more »
The Right Approach to Board Solicitation
Recently, we’ve had a lot of people ask about the best way to solicit leadership gifts from board members. As with any major gift solicitation (because that’s what you’re aiming for, right?), it’s always best to make an in-person ask. Having a board member solicit another board member in-person, is hands-down the most effective way… Read more »
Rethinking Your Annual Giving Approach
Last week Wendy and I attended an interesting presentation on annual giving at our Hampton Roads AFP chapter meeting. Kim Sperling, Director of Development at the Mason School of Business at William and Mary, revealed “Ten Truths and a Myth about Annual Giving,” which reiterated much of the advice we’ve been giving recently around the… Read more »
Two Months Until Year End: Do These 5 Things to Make it Successful
By Abbie Hacker While the principles of fundraising remain the same even in the midst of this challenging year, the application might look a little different right now. In the nonprofit sector, the end of the calendar year is an important time for fundraising. With only two months until the end of 2020, make sure… Read more »
Recorded Webinar: Making the VIRTUAL Ask
Can you ask for a major gift via phone or over a video chat? YES – if done thoughtfully! In case you missed it, The Curtis Group’s Vice President Victoria Dietz provided an insightful and informative presentation. Watch the full presentation below: The fundraising rules have changed for 2020, but we are here… Read more »
How to Build Donor Relationships During Crisis
A Day in the Life of an Executive Director During These Uncertain Times How Shawn Puller Keeps Garth Newel Music Center Moving Forward By Marissa Monell, Client Manager, The Curtis Group, and Shawn Puller, Executive Director of Garth Newel Music Center in Warm Springs, VA We are excited to continue “A Day in the Life… Read more »
Fundraising During Uncertain Times Demands Strategy
Fundraising During Uncertain Times Demands Strategy By Keith Curtis, President & Founder of The Curtis Group In February, everything was still percolating. Now, however, the coronavirus and oil industry events are impacting our economy and, more importantly for philanthropy, the market. We are hearing from clients and the community with questions about what fundraising could… Read more »
12 Tips to Increase Year-End Fundraising
I recently had the privilege of presenting with my colleague Abbie Hacker to a group of nonprofit leaders about maximizing year-end fundraising. While the current weather may suggest otherwise, December will be here before we know it. Now is the time to prepare for your year-end fundraising to be sure your organization is ready to… Read more »
6 Fundraising Trends to Watch in the New Year
As we celebrate The Curtis Group’s 30th anniversary, I could reflect and reminisce on the past, and maybe I will at a later date. But today, I would rather look to the future of fundraising and philanthropy. Below are six philanthropic trends that I think will impact fundraising in 2019. High-net-worth donors continue to give… Read more »
Lead Board Meetings That Ignite Passion and Engagement
Spring is a busy time in the nonprofit world. So many organizations host galas, golf tournaments, run/walks and other fundraising events. But before you become consumed by centerpieces and table assignments, consider this: How are you engaging your board? As you quickly approach the end of your fiscal year or prepare for annual meetings,… Read more »