From Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) DC Chapter President Tycely Williams in the lastest issue of The AFP DConnection:

April marks Autism Awareness Month highlights the growing need for concern and awareness about autism. Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science, research and advocacy organization actively engages families, children and teens in fundraising.   

This month, Sophia, an 11-year old is learning how to raise money for a charitable cause. Sophia’s goal is to raise $900 for Autism Speaks during the month of April. Sophia is making and selling keychains in honor of Lucas, her 2-year-old brother with autism. Within Sophia & Lucas’ story are three important lessons for fundraisers of any age. 

Lesson #1: Set a quantifiable goal within a defined time period. Of course, you’ve set a goal for your upcoming spring gala or Capital Campaign, but what about those smaller efforts? Take the time to strategically consider human and financial capacity. Quantifiable goals and a specific timeline increase success rates.   

Lesson #2: Once you’ve set your goal and timeline, adopt a plan. Sophia’s plan is to sell keychains. Sophia was given a keychain kit for Christmas and has all the resources needed to craft beautiful items. Are you able to secure all the resources needed to support your plan? Plans must be resourced. Secure necessary resources to ensure your plan’s success. 

Lesson #3: Sophia is selling keychains because of her love for Lucas. What is your motivation? Does your organization humanize its story? Every mission has motivation. Step out of your office. Ask clients, constituents and those you serve how your work has made a difference. Sprinkled within these stories is the motivation—the impetus for giving.

Sophia and Lucas remind us just how simple fundraising can be. Fundraising is simple, but it is not easy. AFP DC makes it easier. Attend aneducational session, join an affinity group or register for the 2014 BRIDGE fundraising conference to increase your knowledge and know-how. Find out more on the AFP DC website: afpdc.afpnet.org

Panel moderator, the Chronicle of Philanthropy's Stacy Palmer (far left) guided a discussion on the future of philanthropy and fundraising with panelists Patrick Feeley of Caron Treatment Centers, Lauren Maher with the National Center for Family Philanthropy and Joe Suarez with Booz Allen Hamilton's Community Partnership program.   

Here were more of my take-aways:


  Family Philanthropy

• Family Foundations are usually not diverse, as in they are limited to their perspectives.  They may not know the ins and outs of communities they are supporting.

  
Storytelling

• Share stories that demonstrate impact
• Keep them short
• No storytelling without data to back it up
• Never use just data without a story

  Next Generation Donors

• They want to be hands-on and they want to see the impact of their involvement with your organization.

  
For your Board of Directors

• They need to know "no money...no mission!"
• Educate them
• Fuel their passion
• Provide them with clear expectations

The Foundation Center is a great resource for nonprofits.