A few years ago I wrote an article, “What Would You Do With 1,000 New Donors?”I think this is the time to write a follow up. The more I talk to people now the more I start to question what would you do… [Read more…]
It was also an example of how easy it is to do a quick thank you video for donors. And I am hoping YOU will make one of your own today. This article is not going to teach you how to set up… [Read more…]
By David A. Mersky Recently, I reached out to a former client, now friend, as she was about to experience an important moment in her life — her eldest child was graduating from middle school that evening. I’ve known her and her family for years… [Read more…]
What is the difference between organizations that acknowledge and recognize a donor once or twice after a major gift vs. seven times or more? Thousands and thousands of dollars. Before you say that you don’t have the time to thank a donor seven… [Read more…]
By David A. Mersky Face-to-face fundraising is in a class all its own. It is distinct from email, telemarketing, direct mail, and other high volume, “one to many” tactics in which nonprofits customarily engage. Instead, the best of those who practice face-to-face fundraising focus on… [Read more…]
Time after time, I hear clients say they asked a prospect for a major gift donation. When I ask for details, I hear they: Think you have asked for a major gift donation in one of these ways? Think again. The only way to actually ask… [Read more…]
By David A. Mersky You just finished your year-end rush and have begun planning for next year. But before you turn the calendar page to February, one important question remains: Who were the people, no matter how many times you asked, who gave in… [Read more…]
By David A. Mersky Recently, a colleague of mine was working with a nonprofit group to convene a gateway event. Gateways are used to introduce prospective, new major donors to the organization. The chosen venue was wonderful and RSVPs in the affirmative exceeded expectations.… [Read more…]
By David A. Mersky A beloved member of the community died after a long illness. Her husband and her friends wanted to honor her memory with a fund that would sponsor professional development programs. They turned to the organization on whose board the… [Read more…]
Last month I wrote about what to do with an under-performing board member. The follow up question that we often hear is “Does losing a board member mean losing their donation?” That depends on why you are losing a board member. The reasons may… [Read more…]