by Eddie Thompson | Dec 1, 2021 | Donor Communications
Throughout my 35 years as a development professional, my best leads have always been referrals—particularly those accompanied by personal introductions. That shouldn’t be a surprise to any experienced fundraiser. What is surprising is that so few nonprofits do a good...
by Eddie Thompson | Oct 18, 2021 | Donor Communications, Professional Development
I’m continuing this month with a few more thoughts about the chosen career of a professional fundraiser—a life of never-ending appeals for donations of time and money for worthy causes. With regard to the fine art of asking, below are some of my favorite “tools of...
by Eddie Thompson | Sep 20, 2021 | Donor Communications
After several years working as a professional fundraiser, it’s commonly assumed that countless face-to-face solicitations will have enabled fundraisers to overcome any reluctance about asking for money. If, in a moment of honest vulnerability, an aspiring young “rain...
by Eddie Thompson | Aug 16, 2021 | Development Management, Donor Communications
I have a lot of conversations with nonprofit professionals at all levels—from foundation presidents to major gift officers to fundraisers in their first development jobs. Among the most frequent stress points I hear almost every business day are fundraising goals...
by Eddie Thompson | Jul 13, 2021 | Donor Communications
Recently, I had a remarkable conversation with Jodi Davis, Chief Philanthropy Officer for Sutter Health in Sacramento, CA. Jodi is a brilliant, innovative leader who’s not afraid to step back and make honest evaluations about what is working and what could work...
by Eddie Thompson | Apr 26, 2021 | Charitable Estate Planning, Donor Communications
After meeting with thousands of selected donors over the last 40 years and listening carefully to their desires and concerns for the succeeding generation, I pose three basic questions. These three basic questions have led to a significant philanthropic impact. In the...
