#153 | Will hostility towards our donors really help our fundraising efforts?

Throughout my career there have certainly been occasions where I disagreed with the decisions that informed the way a donor might give; and, at times, I have been so bold as to discuss my opinions with the donor very directly. However, even in the midst of these discussions, I have always done my best to preserve the relationship and assume the best of the individual on the other side of the table.

This was the topic of conversation that I had today with Sam who shared with me some of the hostility that he as observed playing out in the United Kingdom. He described a recent scenario wherein millions of pounds were raised for a worthy cause, yet the press couldn’t resist the temptation to find fault with the process. We can all recall the various criticisms of the way money was raised in response to the Notre Dame fire and the Australia fires; and now we are seeing criticisms of way others are choosing to give in the midst of Covid-19.

Perhaps as stewards of public trust, even in the midst of heated debate, we should always remember that philanthropy is not especially rational. I appreciate that Sam reminded us all of the quote from Maya Angelou who said “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

As always, we are very grateful to OneCause for sponsoring The Fundraising Talent Podcast.