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Why I’m Thankful for Small Donors

I sing the praises of the small donor. Those generous folks that give when they can to a mailing, or online, or even to your very specific appeal on social media. Why? Because they’re the ones doing the heavy lifting in nonprofitland.

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The Nightmare on Giving Street

We recently met a pair of nonprofit leaders who are losing sleep over their fundraising programs. All they want to do is run away from the nightmare of not making payroll or not keeping the lights on. But without understanding who really gives and how to balance growth with stability, they risk coming face-to-face with the monster they fear the most.

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The Power of Mail in Times Like These

If your charity mail can convey the feeling of getting a letter from friends or family, even a tiny bit, I’d argue it leans more toward the kind of mail we need (and save!) rather than the kind of mail that’s headed straight into the recycle bin.

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How to Manage Donor Complaints

Shakespeare penned the words, “Beware the ides of March,” in his play Julius Caesar. The piece recounts the Roman ruler’s assassination by angry mob and stabbing. I hate to be dramatic, but sometimes being a fundraiser can feel just like that.  Here's how to deal with disgruntled donors and still keep your cool. 

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Basic Nonprofit Fundraising Plan Template [Free Download]

All too often, the year starts and fundraising planning gives way to crisis control. To help you get out of emergency mode, I’m sharing this nonprofit fundraising plan template – all ready for you to customize. If you’ve ever wondered how to write a successful fundraising strategy, this is a great start.

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Is Your Data Stuck in the Stone Age?

Truly successful fundraising, the kind that builds a relationship and earns repeat donations, runs on data. A good database can tell you exactly who to mail, what to mail them and when they’re most likely to give a donation. It’s time to leave Access and Excel behind—without breaking the bank or your back. 

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Arizona Goes Rogue on Emotion-First Fundraising

I’ve based all of my successful fundraising strategy around emotion backed up by logic, not the other way around. But now I know there are specific times when the exact opposite is true. Just don’t forget to back up your ask with a great impact story and fantastic stewardship.

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Go Ahead: Admit You're a Fundraiser

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in 20 years of nonprofit fundraising it’s this: if you want to be successful at the job, you have to own it. No one is going to give you millions of dollars unless you’re fully committed. Here are 9 signs you might just be a fundraiser after all. 

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