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

Or perhaps you represent an organization working to educate people about a disease that’s not easy to talk about or is downright disgusting. Or a cause that doesn’t lend itself to cute mascots, clever copy or heart-wrenching images.

The fact of the matter is that, no matter the cause, every mission faces its own challenges. In our special section this month, two consultants talk about their experiences in the realms of politics and public television, and other fundraising professionals offer a look behind the scenes at their organizations and missions. We’ve not touched on every possible mission, and you might not find your specific obstacles here. But we do hope you’ll find some useful insights.