The Michael J. Fox Foundation's unconvential path to fundraising success

By Cheryl P. Rose and Margaret Battistelli

Fox is the backbone of the organization, Kelly says, "but he lets us do our work."

She adds that Fox's vision lies at the core of the organization's fundraising success.

"[He believes] if you have purity of motive, are clear about what you are trying to achieve and what you are doing with people's money, they will continue to support you," she says, adding that the star is adamant about impeccable stewardship. That's why the organization isn't "big into the tchotchkes" and elaborate donor-recognition programs.