August, 2024

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Creating a Thank You Plan Will Help You Let Your Donors Know How Much You Appreciate Them

Ann Green's Nonprofit

Thanking your donors is just as important, if not more important than fundraising. Yet many organizations spend a lot of time putting together a fundraising campaign and then treat thanking their donors as an afterthought. Donor retention continues to be a problem. One of many reasons is because people don’t feel appreciated. Prioritizing gratitude and donor relations will help.

Donation 296
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Top 5 Strategies to Prepare for Fall Fundraising NOW

Clairification

You’ve got one month before fall fundraising season begins in earnest. What will you do with it? I’VE GOT 10 TOP STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU GET ALL YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW! We’ll start with the first five today. Clean up Data Purge Mailing Lists Review Staff, Vendors and Freelancers Set Priority Objectives Based on Last Year’s Results Solidify a Multi-Channel Marketing Campaign Next week we’ll look at: Send Impact Reports to Set the Stage Stock Up on Compelling, Relevant Stories and Photos Connect with

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Looking for new donors? 5 things to think about

Hands-On Fundraising

Looking for new donors? 5 things to think about So you’re looking for a few good (new) donors, are you? (Isn’t everyone?) Before you start pushing mail out the door or emailing wildly, there are some steps you should take. 1. Before you start: are you caring for your current donors? If you’re not already […] The post Looking for new donors?

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Dues or Donations: Which Is Better for Nonprofits?

Wild Apricot

Explore the pros and cons of dues versus donations for nonprofits. Learn how each approach impacts fundraising, membership engagement and organizational stability. You'll be able to decide which model best suits your nonprofit's needs and goals.

Donation 182
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AI for Grant Writing: 20+ ChatGPT Prompts You Can Use

This prompt guide for ChatGPT contains 20+ tested ChatGPT prompts, along with tips on how to use this tool the best way. Nonprofits can engage with ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas, refine project plans, and craft compelling narratives for grant proposals.

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Power of Nonprofit Storytelling | Ethical Storytelling: 3 Keys to Sharing Sensitive Stories

Pamela Grow

“What do I do if my nonprofit serves individuals who have sensitive stories that could trigger others?” In the nonprofit world, it is common to see missions that are serving individuals who have experienced incredible hardships and overcome massive challenges. Children from underserved communities. Adults who have experienced trauma. People experiencing homelessness.

Ethics 162

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The Time to Start Planning Your Year-End Fundraising Campaign is Now

Ann Green's Nonprofit

Can you believe it’s August already? Time flies and soon it will be September. I know It’s hard to think about fall when it’s been sweltering in many parts of the world, including places where it’s usually not that hot. Even so, September will be here before you know it. I’m already starting to see ads for back-to-school sales…. If you’re doing a year-end fundraising campaign, the time to start planning it is now, hopefully in an air-conditioned space.

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Do Something Clairity Click-it: Nonprofit Links + Free Resources

Clairification

Let’s get right to this week’s collection of free resources! If you poke around this issue of the Clairity Click-it, I’m sure you’ll find something to help you DO SOMETHING positive to change the world — at least in your little corner of it. Or something provocative to fuel your thinking around what your might do differently to more effectively engage your constituents.

IT 183
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How do you handle the most emotional gift?

Hands-On Fundraising

Memorial gifts – the most emotional gift? It’s not a gift you look forward to making – or inspiring. It represents someone’s loss and sadness – though also their hope. As a fundraiser, a memorial gift is one of the most emotional gifts you will likely receive. For me, the question is personal. When I […] The post How do you handle the most emotional gift?

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16 Apps Your Nonprofit Needs: The Master List

Wild Apricot

Find the perfect nonprofit app to help you design your day, schedule your tasks, and more in this list.

Nonprofit 173
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Volunteering Would Feel Good Even If It Didn't Have Health Benefits. But It Does

The Chronicle of Philanthropy

Research has revealed a connection between volunteering and more positive emotions, less loneliness and more social support. By Albert Stumm, Associated Press Robert Piechota, via AP Jeff Kellert, seen in his garden in Albany, N.Y., began volunteering as a tutor and helped with monthly dinners at his synagogue. He said the work gives him a sense of purpose he never expected in retirement.

IT 142
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Lessons from MotivateMonday | Secrets to Interviewing for Storytelling

Pamela Grow

When it comes to fundraising, our hearts nearly always overrule our heads. Research proves it time and time again. Yet still, nonprofit organizations instead turn to dry, jargon-laden prose that sets no one’s heart aflame. (All about “our programs!”) If only I had a dime for every time I’ve heard about how “horrible” or “manipulative” the Sarah McLachlan ASPCA commercial is (usually accompanied by a knowing eye roll).

AI 130
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Improve Your Donor Engagement by Creating Some Great Stories

Ann Green's Nonprofit

Stories come in many forms. You can tell a story with words, pictures, and videos. I prefer written stories, but others are drawn to videos. Some people might not have the time or energy to look at anything but a photo or infographic. Your nonprofit organization needs to share stories using all these forms. Sharing stories will help you connect with your donors and improve your engagement.

Media 172
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Getting Ready Clairity Click-it: Nonprofit Links + Free Resources

Clairification

As you’re planning ahead, and readying your year-end fundraising initiatives, take a little time to think about your communication delivery mediums. Not to mention your message content. Are you reaching the right audiences, and making it easy for them? Are you sharing messaging that’s relevant to your constituents, and also authentically you? Take some inspiration from the inimitable Seth Godin: Little billboards On the West Side Highway in Manhattan, there’s currently a billboard for some sort

Readiness 183
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Beginner? How to write appeals that work

Hands-On Fundraising

It’s been a long time, but I remember when I first began writing appeals. This was before we had access to the internet and a huge amount of information at our fingertips. I was smart enough to subscribe to Jerry Huntsinger’s newsletter, though. (On paper, mailed to me!) As I mentioned recently, I took my […] The post Beginner? How to write appeals that work appeared first on Hands-On Fundraising.

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Donor Retention Strategies for Nonprofits

Wild Apricot

Discover effective donor retention strategies for nonprofits with our comprehensive blog. Learn how to build lasting relationships, increase donor loyalty and enhance your fundraising efforts through proven techniques and expert insights.

Nonprofit 157
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Donors Likely Giving $16 Billion Less Each Year After Tax Law Change, Report Finds

The Chronicle of Philanthropy

The cost of giving rose for people who no longer itemize deductions on their taxes. By Rasheeda Childress iStockphoto The cost of giving rose for people who no longer itemize deductions on their taxes.

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To Win Grants, Follow These Strategies and Celebrate Our Recent Client Win!

Millionaire Grant Lady

We love helping our clients win grants! When one of our clients attains a top-level grant after a highly competitive process, we celebrate! (My celebration of choice is Waffle Fries and an Arnold Palmer). Texas Network of Youth Services (TNOYS) was recently awarded a $2 million Youth Homelessness System Improvement (YHSI) Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Grants 130
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4 Key Lessons Nonprofits Should Learn from Businesses

Ann Green's Nonprofit

Although nonprofits and businesses seem different, they share many similarities. Discover lessons nonprofits can learn from their for-profit counterparts here. By Kyle Cannon Although businesses and nonprofits operate in two different worlds, governed by their own unique rules, these organizations are more alike than one might initially think. Certain strategies apply to organizations in both industries—and nonprofits can experience major benefits from following in the footsteps of certain succe

Nonprofit 155
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5 More Top Strategies to Prepare for Fall Fundraising

Clairification

In Part 1 of this two-part series of “Top 10 Strategies to Prepare for Fall Fundraising” we covered. Clean up Data Purge Mailing Lists Review Staff, Vendors and Freelancers Set Priority Objectives Based on Last Year’s Results Solidify a Multi-Channel Marketing Campaign Today we’ll look at: Send Impact Reports to Set the Stage Stock Up on Compelling, Relevant Stories and Photos Connect with Major and Mid-Level Donors Prioritize Contacts with Mid-Level and Other Promising Supporters Plan Ahead to

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Empowering donors: measuring impact

Hands-On Fundraising

We’ve got work to do. I recently read a piece from Give.org, “Public Perceptions of Charity Impact.” In it, they refer to their recently released Special Donor Trust Report. And one of the findings left me with my head in my hands. Those with household income above $200k who report they know the meaning of […] The post Empowering donors: measuring impact appeared first on Hands-On Fundraising.

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7 Best Free Nonprofit Accounting Software

Wild Apricot

Looking for top-notch accounting software for your nonprofit without breaking the bank? Explore the best free options available. We'll highlight features, benefits, and how they can streamline your organization’s finances and help you focus on your mission.

Software 146
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How Philanthropy Fails Boys and Men

The Chronicle of Philanthropy

Richard Reeves is fighting the prevailing view of who's on the losing side of gender equality. Melinda French Gates is backing him with $20 million. By Eden Stiffman Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK Richard Reeves is fighting the prevailing view of who's on the losing side of gender equality. Melinda French Gates is backing him with $20 million.

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The 2024 NPTPower & Influence Top 50

The NonProfit Times

Technology And New Ventures Had Top Executives Blazing New Paths In Guiding Their Organizations By Paul Clolery It is interesting that each year a trend is clear when the team submits initial ideas for The NPT Power & Influence Top 50 honorees. This is clearly the year of data, artificial intelligence, overall technology and their impact on service delivery.

Funding 131
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Can Anyone Be A Grant Writer?

Millionaire Grant Lady

A grant writer is important. According to the IRS, there are nearly 1.5 million tax-exempt nonprofits in the United States , and they all need money. Many of these nonprofits do incredibly important work, helping people and supporting causes that desperately need this help and support, especially in low-income, underserved communities across the nation and around the world.

Grants 130
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Leading Your Nonprofit with Hope, Not Optimism

Clairification

What will you hope for in the coming year? Some years ago a college classmate sent me and others this question by way of a year-end holiday missive, ruminating on how hope and optimism are similar yet different. It struck a chord with me (Thank you David Mahoney). You see, I’m not generally an optimist. Yet I’m often hopeful. I’d just never taken time to actively consider how these concepts are different.

Nonprofit 152
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Lessons from MotivateMonday | Diversify Your Funding With Grants

Pamela Grow

Successful nonprofits have a diverse revenue stream, and grant funding is often a key component. But grants are not a magic bullet to fix funding woes. Learn what grants can and cannot do for your organization, along with tips for finding the right fit for your agency’s mission and programs. Join us for this MotivateMonday session when we’re joined by Amanda Day, GPC, and Kimberly Hays de Muga, GPC, co-hosts of the popular podcast, Fundraising HayDay.

Funding 130
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How to Start a Food Pantry

Wild Apricot

The essential steps to launch a successful food pantry. From planning and organization to sourcing donations and managing operations, you'll learn how to make a positive impact in your community and provide crucial support to those in need.

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Grant Makers, Here’s How to Support Nonprofits Led by People of Color

The Chronicle of Philanthropy

By Aisha Benson iStockphoto Leaders of nonprofits serving people of color are facing urgent needs and less support. Here are 5 ways foundations can take action to preserve progress and speed racial justice.

Grants 132
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5 Ways Nonprofits Can Raise More Money Online

NonProfit PRO

With digital fundraising, a simple “donate” button on your website won't cut it. Optimize your online presence with these tips and raise more.

Donation 122
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12 Grants for Minority Women Business Owners

GrantNews

Minority women business owners help drive innovation, diversity, and economic growth within our communities. Their businesses not only enrich our economy but also provide unique perspectives and solutions that reflect the diversity within our society. However, starting and sustaining a business or nonprofit as a minority woman can be an uphill battle.

Grants 120
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Nonprofit Gift Planning: Do You Use the Language of Love?

Clairification

What must you keep top of mind to have meaningful conversations with donors who (you hope!) may contemplate a gift to your organization? I’ve given you a hint within my question. One word: meaningful. And for a conversation to be meaningful, you have to speak in a language that resonates with the other person. And what is it that resonates more strongly than just about any other emotion?

Nonprofit 152
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Teaching The CEO To Fundraise And Even Like It

The NonProfit Times

By Randall Hallett Fundraising is a major component of the job description of most nonprofit chief executives — whether they like it or not. Many of them have never been fundraisers and lack the basic understanding and expertise in dealing with a nonprofit’s most important donors. So, what can philanthropy leaders do to support your CEO, making them more valuable to fundraising efforts and extending needed tenure.

IT 114
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20+ Memorable Gala Entertainment Ideas

Qgiv

Hosting a gala is a fantastic way to raise funds for your cause, but it’s the entertainment that truly makes it memorable. To stand out in the fundraising world, you need to find engaging gala entertainment ideas to captivate your audience and motivate them to continue their relationship with your nonprofit. The best entertainment for a gala will not only enthrall your guests but also promote donor engagement.