Building a Culture of Philanthropy

1. The leadership of the Catholic institution (pastor, principal, board, pastoral council) does not really understand development.
2. Everything is measured by the amount of immediate money that "must" be raised.
3. There is no written strategic plan in place with measurable, reasonable outcomes.
4. No training is provided for new development directors and continued professional growth.
5. The development director is hired, and the people who have been involved in the past seem to wash their hands of the responsibilities and take the attitude, "I'm glad that's out of my court."
6. The entire effort is simply one fundraiser after another fundraiser, and the "nickel-and-dime" mentality never ceases. Total burnout.
7. Too many "guarded kingdoms" to overcome. Therefore there's a lack of acceptance of the new development director's vitality, energy and creativity.
8. Not enough team building on all fronts, and this is really all about people engagement.

I think Donaldson absolutely nailed it — and I don't believe that these eight reasons are limited to Catholic institutions.