Calm Wisdom from Weathering Five Recessions!

There’s lots of chatter about fundraising in 2019 and I can’t resist putting my take on it. My perspective is a result of successfully weathering five recessions etc. Here it goes…

In 2019, the best fundraisers will be successful if they:

• use the tools available in technology with applied analytics and continue to develop strong relationships with top prospects for major and mega gifts
• do not spend time talking about the tax laws but recognize cases for support have always overcome tax changes.
• treat all gifts as noble and donors as having potential to grow their gifts, if given opportunities that excite them to do so.
• ensure both their personal and organization's stories are relevant, urgent and emotional, because giving is 90% emotional and 10% rational; it’s all about human behavior.

I've heard a lot of angst about the negative impact a volatile stock market has on philanthropy. We should all remember the capital appreciation in the USA equities market is extremely significant as it sat at 6,500 in March of 2009. Now we seem to worry about a 100 to 200 point slide while still hovering around 23,000 to 25,000 or more.

• Most major donor prospects today have been investing for the last decade and captured that growth.
• And the real fundraising drivers -- equities and employment -- are and have been looking pretty good.

In other words, 2019 will be what you make it.

1. Pick up your phone
2. Get out from behind the desk #nofundraisinghappensatyourdesk!!!