A Hiker's Guide to Fundraising

The same is true in fundraising. We are watching carefully, but the insidious march of donor attrition, the slow decline in average gift size or the minor changes in messaging that shift the focus to talking about the organization's need instead of showing donors how their goals and objectives can be met by giving — these are the kinds of things that result in slow but sure decline of fundraising results until we're looking at a crisis (or staff upheaval). Keep your eyes on the small things, not just the obvious pitfalls looming ahead.

Take it from this old dog — the fundraising hike is a great way to spend your career. I'm hoping these tips will help you enjoy the experience as much as I do.