Reflections on 10 Years

FundRaising Success published its first issue in November 2003, which makes this our 10-year anniversary year. To celebrate, we’ll be taking a look back at past issues throughout the year.

Following are some words of wisdom culled from the June 2006 issue.

From Matthew Sherrington, then-director of development, Greenpeace USA (cover story, “Seriously Innovative”):

• “People love or hate Greenpeace. There’s no point inviting people in with a soft message, only for them to leave if they don’t like the full picture when they realize it.”
• “The environmental sector is known for its premiums: stuffed toys, tote bags, umbrellas. How on earth is dumping that sort of stuff [in mail] consistent with a message about conservation of resources? So we don’t do it.”

From Senny Boone, then executive director of the DMA Nonprofit Federation (Words to Live By column, “Feuding for Free E-mail"):

• “There must be a balance between our need to communicate, advocate and seek essential resources, and the need to prevent spam and other Internet scams.”

From Johni Hays, then-senior planned-giving consultant at The Stetler Co. (feature, “The 7 Commandments of Planned Giving”):

• “Thou shalt not ignore donors’ motivations, goals and financial situations; make recommendations without adequate technical advice; recommend an inappropriate gift vehicle; recommend the donation of inappropriate assets; recommend techniques that are ripe for IRS scrutiny; allow the tail to wag the dog; act as trustee unless qualified to do so.”

From Tim Burgess, co-founder, The Domain Group (Because It Matters column, “Vetting for Value”):

• “To successfully measure the efficiency and effectiveness of your fundraising program, get a handle on the Net Present Value you’re producing from your acquisition and donor-cultivation efforts. Then focus your campaign strategies in those areas where you can create the greatest improvement.”