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

Anyone who’s done political fundraising knows the pressure to raise money is high, regardless of where you are in the polls. But it’s more difficult to raise money for a candidate who has strong poll numbers. The message is essential: “Always be prepared.” And if your candidate’s poll numbers are in the wrong direction, it’s, “Get candidate X’s positive message out.”