#62 | Who is really getting in the way of talented fundraising professionals?

My recent conversation with Melissa Piece was a strong reminder that fundraisers are my people – I get them, easily relate to them and want nothing more than to ensure that they are recognized and admired for meaningful work. I’m just not about the large associations, software companies, and consulting firms that, frankly, only seem to get in their way.

Melissa started off by sharing that her entrance into fundraising was much like my own - we both experienced the generosity of someone else and felt compelled to explore whether there was something more to this. Instead of pursuing the path of a teacher, Melissa has found that her strengths allow her to build meaningful relationships with individuals that share a commitment to causes that she is passionate about. Fundraising evidently fits her very well.

One of the important lessons that fundraising professionals like Melissa learn is that relationships that are appropriately cultivated and stewarded yield the greatest outcomes. Our ability to keep pace with the donor, listen closely for the reasons they are inclined to give, and present opportunities that align with what we have heard are the best ways to ensure a mutually rewarding and sustainable relationship.

Want to join us for the next stop on the How Fundraising Really Works roadshow?

Here’s some feedback from those who attended our seminar in Toronto last month.

“I haven’t enjoyed a fundraising workshop as much as yours in many, many years!” — Maryann Kerr, CEO, The Medalist Group, Toronto, 2019

“Probably one of the best days of professional development I've experienced.” — Jack Silverstein, VP, Development at National Capital Region YMCA-YWCA, Ottawa, 2019

“I found the seminar fun, instructive, affirming and educational.” — Sue Ellen English, National Director, Development, Prison Fellowship Canada

If you're interested in joining us at an upcoming stop on the How Fundraising Really Works roadshow, it's it important to know that this is not the typical “Tips and Tricks” experience we've grown accustom to. Instead, we're going to confront the real reasons for why most fundraising strategies are designed to fail, challenge everyone’s assumptions about how fundraising really works, and ensure that fundraising professionals know how to be recognized and admired for meaningful work. Anyone who isn’t thinking more critically about the fundraising profession when they leave wasn’t paying attention.

For more information, go to lewisfundraising.com/events