Ask, Don't Tell: What the Best Donor Calls Have in Common
Try to shift your conversational strategy: you're not there to tell the donor what her gift means; you're there to learn.
The Icky Sticky Overheard Conversations
When donors understand how people, systems, and infrastructure contribute to long-term impact, overhead spending becomes less of a lightning rod.
The Icky-Sticky Word: Overhead
Fundraisers have an important role in helping donors understand overhead spending – through honest, permission-based conversations grounded in trust.
Five MORE Fundraising Trends We Can’t Ignore in 2026
Here's our take on 5 more trends identified in recent market studies, and what they may mean for your work.
Five Fundraising Trends We Can’t Ignore in 2026
Here's our take on some trends identified in recent market studies, and what they may mean for your work.
From ‘Look What We Did’ to ‘Look What You Made Possible’
Marketing talks in terms of a big picture, but you can turn it on its head for donors. Show them the impact of their gift in the larger scheme.
Moving from “I love everything you do” to meaningful donor conversations
Broad support reflects goodwill. Specific connection builds relationship.
How Unrealistic, Untethered Asks Lose Donors (and Dollar Handles Bring Them In)
When donors can see their role in meeting a need, they’re far more likely to step in – and step up.
Why Big Numbers Lose Donors (and Dollar Handles Bring Them In)
Big numbers describe need. Dollar handles invite participation.
Don’t Just Serve Bacon: Creating Stories of Impact that Actually Inspire
Next time you create a story of impact, try to include something for donors of each of these four types...
No Need to Reinvent the Wheel: Using Ask Letters for Stewardship
Here’s a simple, efficient way to make a meaningful connection with donors without creating additional work.