7 Tips to Connect With Donors at Thanksgiving
In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians joined in an autumn harvest feast that is said to be among the first Thanksgiving celebrations. (Our November holiday was designated by President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.)
"A model of Christian charity" was the sermon John Winthrop preached to puritans bound for New England in 1630, emphasizing the wealthy's social obligation to care for those less fortunate. Then, in 1638, John Harvard bequeathed his library and half his estate to a newly founded school that would bear his name, and in 1643, Harvard University conducted what is believed to be the nation's first fundraising campaign.
Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.
