This isn’t a sales pitch! Every year we host a series of free virtual Lunch and Learn sessions on various important board governance topics.

According to Bloomerang, the term philanthropy means “voluntary action for the common good. Fund development is the essential partner of philanthropy and makes philanthropy possible by bringing together a particular cause and the prospects and donors who are willing to invest in the cause.

When do you turn down financial donations to your organization? With all the pressure to secure the financial resources needed to make budget and achieve organizational goals, is it ever appropriate to say ‘thanks but no thanks’ to somebody who is willing to provide financial support?

Ronald Reagan proclaimed November 15th National Philanthropy Day in 1986. He urged individuals and organizations to “observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to recognize the enormous achievements of all who have given of themselves for others, and to rededicate ourselves to the great tasks ahead.”

Values play a significant role in fundraising for most nonprofit organizations. Fundraising or more appropriately, development, is not just about raising money; it's also about aligning the organization's mission, principles, and values with the values and priorities of donors and supporters.