Posted , by Wendy McGrady, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Topic: Fundraising, National Research Collaborative, Philanthropy Research & Events.

How and Why We Give: Highlights from the Generosity Commission’s Final Report   By Wendy McGrady, EVP and COO I was in D.C. for the release of The Generosity Commission’s report at the end of September. Based on my experience and the report’s findings, my article was recently published on the Giving USA blog. Below is… Read more »

Posted , by Kaitlin Robb, Consultant and Marketing Director. Topic: Donor Communication, Fundraising.

The Power of Storytelling: Harnessing “Your Why” to Elevate Nonprofit Fundraising By Kaitlin Robb, Consultant and Director of Marketing When it comes to successful fundraising, storytelling isn’t just a technique: It’s the heart of effective communication. Storytelling allows you to connect emotionally with your supporters, turning abstract missions into personal, relatable experiences. Understanding and articulating “your why”—the… Read more »

Posted , by Elizabeth Vana, Client Coordinator. Topic: Donors, Fundraising, Gift Solicitation, Webinars and Videos.

Free Webinar: Building Lasting Relationships to Maximize Impact   This insightful session will deepen your understanding of donor engagement. Learn best practices for cultivating meaningful relationships, effective stewardship strategies and how to communicate your organization’s mission to inspire sustained support. Our team of experts will share: Real—world examples of donor cultivation and stewardship Strategies to… Read more »

Posted , by Kate Hildebrand, Consultant. Topic: Donor Communication, Donors.

Unlocking Insights: Why Your Nonprofit Needs to Survey Donors By Kate Hildebrand, Consultant It is essential for your organization to understand your donors’ motivations, interests, perceptions and experiences. One of the most effective and easiest ways to gain this understanding is through electronic surveys. Why Survey Donors? 1. Understand Donor Motivations: Knowing why donors choose to support your… Read more »

Posted , by Wendy McGrady, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Topic: Fundraising.

What Are the Key Takeaways of Giving USA 2024? According to Giving USA 2024, U.S. charitable giving in 2023 reached a new high in current dollars at over $557 billion (growing by 1.9%). Nevertheless, with inflation rates higher than average for another year, giving did not outpace inflation (dropping 2.1% when adjusted for inflation). The U.S. Is Resilient,… Read more »

Posted , by . Topic: Fundraising, Giving USA, National Research Collaborative, Philanthropy Research & Events, Webinars and Videos.

What Are the Key Takeaways of Giving USA 2024? Philanthropy drives the pace of change within the nonprofit sector. Learn from The Curtis Group as they delve into the latest national fundraising and economic trends and their implications for major donors. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Wendy McGrady and Executive Vice President Victoria… Read more »

Posted , by Rachel Kimble, Consultant. Topic: Campaigns & Campaign Planning, Capital Campaigns, Fundraising, Preparing for a Campaign.

Is a Campaign Planning Study Worth the Effort? By Rachel Kimble, Consultant Embarking on a fundraising campaign is a significant endeavor for any nonprofit organization, often requiring substantial resources and strategic planning. One crucial step in the process is conducting a campaign planning study (sometimes called a feasibility study) to assess your organization’s readiness and potential for… Read more »

Posted , by Elizabeth Vana, Client Coordinator. Topic: Donor Prospects, Donors, Nonprofit Management.

Engaging Your Volunteers for Fundraising Success   By Elizabeth Vana, Client Coordinator Spring is officially here­­—the days are getting warmer, flowers are blooming, and that pesky pollen is making everyone sniffle. But did you know that April brings so much more than flowers? April is National Volunteer Month! Nonprofits depend on the generosity and expertise… Read more »

Posted , by Victoria Dietz, Executive Vice President. Topic: Careers in Philanthropy, Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy Research & Events, Professional Development.

Empowering Impact: The Role of Women in Philanthropy By Victoria Dietz, Executive Vice President Women have long been catalysts for positive change in society, and their role in philanthropy is no exception. As a woman who has devoted her career to philanthropy and in honor of Women’s History Month, I want to explore some of the ways… Read more »

Posted , by Hilary Fulp, Vice President. Topic: Donor Acknowledgement, Donor Retention, Donors, High-Net-Worth Individuals, Major Donors, Philanthropy Research & Events.

What Motivates Affluent Households’ Giving? By Hilary Fulp, Vice President Last week I attended an invitation-only presentation in Hampton Roads hosted by Bank of America on their new research on high-net-worth households’ giving–the 2023 Bank of America Study of Philanthropy: Charitable Giving by Affluent Households. At this event, The Curtis Group President Keith Curtis, Bank of America’s Managing Director &… Read more »