#197 | Is the rising generation of fundraising professionals more thoughtful about their work?

My conversation with Jason Sapia began in a familiar place. At times such as this, should membership organizations be focused on fundraising revenue or perhaps alternative streams such as dues? While certainly an important question, our conversation quickly moved to several more thoughtful questions that I believe fundraisers are asking themselves right now. In addition to the “should we be asking” question, we discussed the “how,” “for what,” and “why” questions. And, most importantly, we discussed the question of how to appropriately acknowledge a first-time gift so as to ensure that a meaningful relationship is established and sustained for the long road ahead.

As of late, when I talk to fundraisers who are early in their careers, I often encounter a depth and intentionality that perhaps wasn’t there at the same point early in my own career. For example, amidst the usual talk about thank you cards and acknowledge letters, I don’t recall thinking, “Hey, now is best opportunity to acknowledge the donor as a human being without concern for the size or intent of the gift, conveying that they are seen and appreciated.”

As always we are grateful to our friends at CueBack for sponsoring The Fundraising Talent Podcast. Be sure to visit their website at to learn more.

 #unpredictable  #responsivefundraising