Taking Responsibility

If we want to get the philanthropic results that make the biggest difference in the lives of others, there is no getting around the notion that we also have to take responsibility.

Here is a beginning list of ways we have to take responsibility if we want our work with donors to make a significant difference:

• Take responsibility for the idea or concept with the donor – sometimes they don’t know how to make a difference, but they want to.  We have the responsibility to be their “giving sherpa,” and guide them with ideas and proposals to consider.
• Take responsibility for following-up – sometimes people say, “yes, that’s a great idea, we should do that!” but then don’t take action.  We have the responsibility to keep that sense of excitement and forward momentum continuing.
• Take responsibility for being an expert – sometimes, the donor has an idea that isn’t the most effective or the most efficient.  Because we bring knowledge, experiences, and expertise to bear, we have the responsibility to affirm their enthusiasm, while gently nudging them in a more productive philanthropic direction.
• Take responsibility for the relationship – sometimes, people go quiet and don’t respond.  Perhaps they are just busy with life.  Or, perhaps they are upset about something.  The cause doesn’t matter as much as us realizing that simply saying, “they haven’t gotten back to me,” isn’t the end of the story.  We have the responsibility to creatively, and with enthusiasm, do all we can to keep key advancement relationships connected and vibrant.
• Take responsibility for inviting – sometimes people may want to give, but don’t follow through. We have the responsibility to cheerfully and consistently invite people to experience the joy of giving for the benefit of those beyond themselves and their families.

Taking responsibility in these ways (and others) can feel risky or, even, scary.  We might make a mistake.  We might be wrong.  We might fail.  We might be held to account.

But, when we don’t own our responsibilities, we run an even bigger, more substantial risk:

We run the risk that our important missions, those we serve, and our donors might not be transformed through the awesome power of philanthropy.

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