In the most effective development programs, maturing planned gifts can account for 20 – 25% of total gift income in any given year. Whether in a campaign or during your institution’s annual giving efforts, you should have a clear understanding of and plan for how you will report, count, value, and credit planned gifts. The…
Month: October 2013
The Education of a Major Gift Prospect
There are 3 components that need to come together for a major gift prospect to become a major gift donor: Assets – The prospect must have the financial capacity to make the major gift commitment; Personal Relationship – The prospect must come to understand, appreciate, and value the mission and vision of the institution or…
That Feeling Of Finding Something We’ve Lost
There is something about finding something we feared we’ve lost. A couple of years ago on our annual family vacation, I was throwing a football in knee-high surf only to have my wedding band slip quietly off my suntan-lotioned finger. By the time I realized it was gone, the steady waves had shifted the sandy…
What Does A Donor Crave?
Why do donors make gifts? What motivates a donor to give? It’s not because your materials are the most eye-catching or compelling. It’s not because your institution has the most needs. It’s not because you serve the most disadvantaged populations. It’s not even because you have the most urgent and life-impacting case for support. If…