This quote changed how I look at fundraising.

Early in my career, I came across a quote that radically altered how I viewed my job as a development officer.

“The donors’ need to give is always greater than the charity’s need to receive.”

The longer I live, the more convinced I am that the philosophy of that quote is true.  Each of us is created with an inherent need to do things for other people out of generosity.  When we don’t, we’re stunting our own humanity!

If there were no charities at all, I would still need to give.

In the nonprofit world, we appeal to donors on the merits of their needs at least as much as we do on the merits of our own needs.  “I’m not asking you to give because I want me to be fulfilled; rather, I want you to feel fulfilled through giving!”

How do we find out how a donor will feel fulfilled? Knowing me, you’ll know my answer: ASK them. Ask Conversational Fundraising questions and you’ll learn all you need to know about their generosity.

When we meet their needs, both parties are being fulfilled.

After 15 years in my role as a fundraising consultant, I find that this belief is still so true.  If anything, it’s only become more pronounced! Donors need to give.

Some things in our world serve only to feed the superficial.  True philanthropy is the ultimate expression of authenticity. May you seek out and find authentic donors, working through you to solve the problems they are passionate about.