Major Gifts

How the Wrong Focus Drives Revenue Down
October 25, 2021 at 9:43 am

The average tenure for a major gifts officer is sitting at 16 months with replacement costs sitting at more than $127,650. What is causing MGOs to burn out? Think about what you can do to deal with the very things that, if they continue for you, will literally rip the spirit right out of you and cause your revenue to go down.

The Legacy of Alex Trebek’s Philanthropy
October 12, 2021 at 12:19 pm

Alex Trebek and other celebrity nonprofit ambassadors can have a profound and lasting impact on the causes they choose to support. While not an easy relationship to cultivate, it can be well worth the effort. Here's how four nonprofits have benefited from the generosity of the late game show host and "Jeopardy!" guest hosts LeVar Burton and George Stephanopoulos.

How To Confuse Your Major Donor
October 11, 2021 at 1:13 am

I hear too many speeches, sit in too many meetings, and receive too many communications (written and electronic) where the author starts off by building the case and then finally gets to the reason for building it. This tactic will confuse your major donor.

Do You Know Your Donor?
October 4, 2021 at 9:49 am

You and I have a desire to be connected to others and when that other person shows you that they know you, that connection strengthens. Even when you may not know the other person that well, a personal touch will immediately strengthen that relationship...

Your Major Gift Work Is Not About the Money
September 27, 2021 at 11:43 am

As a major gifts officer, the primary question asked is, essentially, “How’s the money coming in?” The finance office needs to know because it can't pay the bills with air. The goal you made also set an expectation that a certain amount of money would come in. So, it is a fair question...

Charting Your Major Donors' Journey — And Why It Matters
September 24, 2021 at 1:33 pm

As a fundraising professional, you already know how important your major donors are. Having a dedicated and data-driven strategy to engage and build relationships with major donors is critical to your fundraising goals and success...

University of Massachusetts Medical School Rebrands After $175M Gift
September 16, 2021 at 12:29 pm

The University of Massachusetts Medical School is commemorating an unrestricted $175 million donation from the Morningside Foundation — the philanthropic arm of venture capital and private equity firm Morningstar — that will more than double its endowment...

Keep Your Gaze on the Donor’s Heart
September 13, 2021 at 11:55 am

You’re feeling the pressure. You have to reach your goal. You were reminded again last week. Some donors on your caseload are behind. And there is concern that the budgeted funds will not come in...