Tarsha Whitaker Calloway

Is this new wave of donor-advised fund (DAF) grants just a trend, or could it represent a fundamental change in fundraising?

I have used the phrase, “We’re building the plane while we fly it,” as part of my mantra. Initially, I thought it was a professionally acceptable way to say, “We have no idea. We’re making it up as we go and we will get there with a solid outcome,” but most recently I realized what it means, and I discovered why it is a good line of thinking in the current landscape for nonprofit leaders.

The increasing trend toward globalization in the past 30 years has changed the way American interests do business. As America’s preeminent companies find themselves competing for markets and influence outside the United States, the targets of their philanthropic efforts have also shifted.

Audiences are changing, donors are evolving, and patrons of all backgrounds are participating. The biggest question is: Are these diverse voices represented at the table within our organizations?

Although it may seem like you are competing with every other fundraiser who is making year-end asks, donors have become more intentional and savvier about how and to what causes they give. It’s a simple fact that has been proven time and again in fundraising studies and research: People give to charity at the end of the year.

I’ve been engaging donors to support important mission work, special projects and the next big gala for a few years now, and I have noticed a new use of the word “philanthropy” in place of “fundraising.” It is not a bad approach but it has the potential to shift many attitudes for varied reasons...

At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic with business closures and sheltering in place across the country, nonprofit organizations scrambled to deal with their new reality, which included the uncertainty of fundraising, budget cuts and laid-off employees. Most nonprofits began to settle into a cautious routine with most asking, “What should we do next?”...

Most would argue that cultural competence is just another way of focusing on diversity and inclusion.

Recent events have reignited discussions around racial injustices and biases.

As I transition into a new position, I reflect on the many relationships I have developed over the years and how those relationships have played a role throughout my nonprofit journey...