Don’t Be Out of Your Major Donors’ Minds!
July 20, 2017 at 12:06 pm

How often is “enough” for a prospective donor to see you? Often, organizations have stewardship and cultivation plans that may outline five, 10 or even more “touches” for donors...

Introduction to Strategic Nonprofit Major Gifts Moves Management
July 19, 2017 at 11:26 am

Today, we’re going to look at a great tool for building those important relationships with top prospects over time. And we all know that is what will result in the big gift. You know how important it is to put a plan in place to build relationships, right? It’s super de-duper important if you want to secure major gifts. I’m talking about “moves management...

4 Things That Can Kill Your Walk Program
July 19, 2017 at 11:23 am

While meeting with Turnkey’s clients in New York City this week, a recurring question came up: What is the state of fundraising walks? Is the walk dying off? Will DIY someday edge out the tried and true mainstay that has raised millions—sometimes billions—of dollars for so many nonprofits?...

The Difference Nonprofits Can Make in Politics
July 18, 2017 at 10:55 am

Nonprofit organizations have always had a significant effect on politics and culture in the U.S. Their effect on legislation and culture is vital to our democracy. These organizations allow mobilization of passionate citizens for an issue they feel is important, regardless of establishment politics...

Are You Creating a Checklist or a Powerful Relationship?
July 17, 2017 at 10:37 am

Not surprisingly, most development professionals have a long "To-Do" list. It can feel overwhelming to keep up with data-entry, make donor phone calls, draft mailings and reports and more. Being able to cross things off our list can feel great...

You Need to Make Mistakes
July 17, 2017 at 10:14 am

Making a mistake is one of the best things you can do. Did I just say that? Yes. And, I mean it. I’ve talked many times about how we all need to own up to our mistakes and that donors will appreciate it when you do. Today, I want to urge you not to be afraid to make mistakes...

The Issue With Nonprofit Sector Talent
July 14, 2017 at 11:02 am

While serving as an executive for several nonprofit organizations, I noticed the issue of nonprofit sector talent was rarely discussed or pursued at the highest organizational level in the board room. Many organizations did not have an up-to-date strategic or operational plan, much less an HR plan for recruitment and retention of talented employees...

Maximizing Joy: The Secret of Fundraising Success
July 13, 2017 at 11:50 am

For those of us in the fundraising profession, there’s nothing quite like the elation of closing a significant gift. You’ve worked hard, and then you feel the reward. I’ve been there. I’m sure you have as well. I wonder how many of us stop and think about what the donor may be feeling?...

Be Prepared, and Enjoy Great Success
July 12, 2017 at 10:45 am

If you are contemplating a major campaign, make it a multi-year process. You will find your eventual campaign will be much more successful, more rewarding and more fun for you, your staff and volunteers, and your donors...

5 Best Practices for Ethical Online Fundraising
July 11, 2017 at 10:11 am

Online giving has added new and unique challenges to maintaining ethical practices, so it may be time to refresh your approach. As technology develops, so do many issues around privacy, communication and safety. How can we help protect donors’ rights in the online world?...