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As the new school year kicks off across the country this month, I have spent some time reflecting on my teaching experience. One student in particular stands out to me for many reasons. Her name was Mary Ruth Miller. When I joined the faculty at Oklahoma Wesleyan University in the mid 1970s, Mary Ruth Miller […]
One of the biggest ‘whys’ in my life is family. I am truly fortunate and richly blessed to have a healthy, growing family to live life with. Watching my family grow is one of the great joys of my life. I was reminded of this recently when my youngest grandchild, Preston, celebrated his first birthday. […]
This week’s video features some tips and insights into writing successful grant proposals. You’ve heard me say it before, “Get in line, Stay in line, Get to the Front of the Line”. What do you do when you’re at the front of the line and are asked to submit a grant proposal? Learn about […]
A board retreat can generate amazing results for an organization. Renewed excitement about the mission and direction going forward. Camaraderie and relationship building with other board members. Getting on the “same page” and purposefully working toward a common goal. The “why” of board retreats is simple: your board needs to be intentional about the big, important topics. […]
“Where do we start?” I get asked that a lot when it comes to annual fund strategy. The annual fund can be a challenging part of the fundraising plan, but if you have the right strategy in place, it can be a huge benefit for your organization. Here are three tips you can use as […]
As I look to the new year, I’m struck with the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. 2016 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet, and I want to share a few things I’m especially excited about: Storytelling for Analytical Leaders – As you might have seen, my friend John Millen and […]
Yes, timing is everything! And your patience will be rewarded when you adapt to your donor’s sense of timing. The donor’s timing is what matters, as we see in today’s video, Asking About Timing. Asking donors about the timing of their gift decisions leads to some enlightening conversations. And, like all the steps on the 10 […]
You’ve heard of it. The dreaded IRS Form 990, the information return charitable organizations submit anually in order to retain their tax-exempt status. It’s tedious, right? Only if you let it be. Did you know the From 990 is the primary information source for many funders? By definition, these are more sophisticated givers . . […]
Today I welcome back Kathy Wright, my friend, colleague and the new chief operating officer at the Institute for Conversational Fundraising. She talks to us this morning about focus. I think you’ll agree, we can use an occasional reminder about how to focus at work and in our lives. I got new glasses a couple […]
As you might recall, I have partnered with Bloomerang in the past to present free informative webinars. I have personally had a great experience working with the people at Bloomerang, and they have invited me to make another presentation Thursday, February 27 at 1 PM EST, entitled “7 Keys to Success in High Stakes Asking.” […]