Each philanthropic cause has its own special challenges. Here we talk to fundraising pros for a behind-the-scenes look at a variety of missions and organizations.

By Margaret Battistelli Gardner

Political fundraising is a balance of giving people an inside view without giving too much away. And with the news cycle being what it is, you have to realize who your donors are — well-educated and in the know — and treat them accordingly. Political fundraisers understand the need to respond to attack ads, or create a field plan for “get out the vote” work, or even to buy pizza for the volunteers. If you do it right, you can speak to the state of the campaign, what needs to be done and what the donor can do to help.