54: Generosity In The Face Of Ugliness Reflections On Generosity podcast

6:00

"...When we have decided to accept, let us accept with cheerfulness, showing pleasure, and letting the giver see it, so that he or she may at once receive some return for their goodness..." This week, I am reading a quote from On Benefits by Seneca the Younger, published in 59 AD. Seneca uses the word “benefit” to denote an act of charity. Reflection question: Think back to the last few donations you’ve received. How have you received them? With lukewarmness, distraction, pride, or true expressions of gratitude? Reflection on quote: When a donor makes a gift to our organizations, they're not just writing a check. They're extending trust, hope, and belief in our missions. Yet too often, our lukewarm responses leave them wondering if their gift even mattered. Seneca understood something profound: how you receive that first donation determines whether there will be second and another. Gracious, public gratitude creates a positive cycle where donors experience immediate joy from seeing their impact, naturally leading to deeper engagement. And, as this quote outlines, authentic gratitude which celebrates both the gift and the giver creates abundance. When we celebrate donors enthusiastically, we are inviting our entire community into a story of collective transformation that's far more powerful than any individual effort. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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107: A Source of Blessing 4:26

11 days ago4:26

4:26

"...And joy is the appropriate attitude with which to help others because acts of generosity are a source of blessing to the giver as well as the receiver..." This week, I’m reading a quote from John Chrysostom from the 400 A.D.s. Reflection questions: If you are writing a fundraising appeal for an urgent need, step back and ask yourself these two questions. What will the donor feel when they read or hear your appeal? Does the appeal honor the subject’s dignity or, if a place or thing, the subject's significance or importance? Reflection of the quote: In the United States this week, a law was signed that will cut many social services. Naturally, many human services nonprofits are expecting an increase in need and are therefore preparing fundraising asks. Also, this week, the United States, there were some tragic natural disasters. Nonprofits serving in those areas are also preparing fundraising asks. Each day, across the globe, something urgent occurs that leads nonprofits to ask donors to give. How we portray the urgent need matters. When we are faced with an urgent need involving our constituents, whether it is a person, animal, place, or thing, the way we portray the fundraising need matters. There are methods that invoke fear, scarcity, and obligation. These techniques have been described as “poverty porn.” The essential of poverty porn is outlined in this week’s quote. It invokes a reluctant sense of duty and makes the subject - our constituents - embarrassed and demeaned. They also make the donor feel fearful, angry, and resentful. In the short-term, these techniques do raise funds. However, in the long-term, donor don’t keep giving because anger is a life-sucking companion. Within this week’s ancient wisdom there is a better way. That is, to ask with a spirit of joy and gratitude and to set a vision for the donor that they get to be a source of blessing to meet this urgent need. This quote has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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106: Generosity Happens Right 4:05

18 days ago4:05

4:05

"...All that happens, happens right: you will find it so if you observe narrowly..." This week, I am reading a quote from Meditations by Marcus Aurelius , written around 171 AD. Reflection questions: When you have failed in your work recently, how are you observing narrowly for the right things that came out of it? Are you seeking perfection or goodness in your fundraising activities? Reflection on the quote: In working with over 100 clients, it’s not surprising that I’m well-acquainted with failure as well. A donor event that no one shows up to. An email campaign that raises zero dollars. A year-end direct mail campaign that goes out in January. A fundraising event where no one gives. As much as I want every campaign, event, fundraising activity to be successful, that’s not real life. So how do we grapple with that. This week, I am reading a quote from Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, written around 171 AD. All that happens, happens right. Notice that Aurelius didn't say, all that happens, happens perfectly. Or, successfully. But, he says “right if you observe narrowly.” We can get stuck in embarrassment or paralysis. We can fear that donors will stop giving to us because of our failure. Instead, a failure can help us have more honest interactions with donors. For instance, ask the donor help us understand the best way to give you the opportunity to donate. Or, a failure can lead to the right conversations with the right donors. For example, a smaller-than-hoped-for event can open up a more in-depth conversation that wouldn’t have been possible if the event was larger. Failures can lead to growth when we have the right attitude, which is the second half of the quote. Let your aim be goodness in every action. We don’t fail in fundraising because we want to fail. But we will fail because failure is a part of life. So, we don’t aim for perfection or status. We aim for goodness. Goodness for the cause that we serve. And, remember, donors don’t give to us. They give to the cause through us. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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105: Deserve to be a Giver 5:27

25 days ago5:27

5:27

..."See first that you yourself deserve to be a giver, and an instrument of giving. For in truth it is life that gives unto life—while you, who deem yourself a giver, are but a witness...." This week, I’m reading on this poem On Giving by Khalil Gibran from The Prophet‍, published in 1923. Reflection question: Are you an instrument of giving? Reflection on quote: What is the first action that every fund development professional should do upon taking a job? Give. Give to the organization where you work. Once we ourselves are givers, it is then we can be receivers. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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104: Joy of Discovery (Part 2) 4:45

5 weeks ago4:45

4:45

"...Acknowledging that one does not know is a humble kind of ignorance, one that is, in fact, filled often with the joy of discovery and wonder at what is discovered..." This week, I’m reading a quote from Imposed Ignorance and Humble Ignorance - Two Worldviews by Paul Heltne , published in 2008. Reflection Questions: Are we building structures and processes in our work that demand certainty or are we building those structures and processes to encourage discovery and wonder? Are we willing to be honest and humble with donors when we need to make a course correction? Reflection on the Quote Earlier this week, I was coaching a client through the process of asking for a corporate sponsorship. She knew that this was an area that she knew little about, but instead of being defensive, she embraced this ignorance with openness and curiosity. It stuck me. How am I approaching my ignorance whether it’s about a donor or a fundraising technique or a trend in the field. This also applies to generosity. We can approach donor relationships with certainty, with standard practices, and yet we may never find out the true reason a donor is giving to our organizations. In the face of our certainty, the donor may feel foolish to ask questions or be open with us. Or, we can approach donor relationships with this humble ignorance. We can build the relationship on a foundation of discovery, wonder, and openness. We can marvel at unexpected gifts. We can make course corrections and be honest with donors. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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103: Generosity of Lonely Pioneers 4:58

6 weeks ago4:58

4:58

"...We cannot attempt to recount here the long story of all good causes which came to be recognized only after lonely pioneers had devoted their lives and fortunes to arousing the public conscience, of their long campaigns until at last they gained support..." This week, I’m reflecting on this quote by Friedrich Hayek from The Constitution of Liberty , published in 1960. Reflection questions: As you consider this quote, are there donors that come to mind? Donors who will devote their time and wealth sacrificially for the causes we serve? How will you walk beside these donors to support and encourage them in their community leadership? Reflection on quote: The role of wealth in our society and in nonprofit work has been much debated. While we are all aware of demanding donors with unproductive ideas, on LinkedIn, someone posted a quote discussing how individual donors can create positive societal change. A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of coaching a client through a gap campaign where the client had to raise $2 million in 6 weeks or face significant financial consequences. Quietly, a small group of major donors stepped in. The leadership of these donors has and will lead to more giving by the community. As Hajek states, when donors employ their wealth sacrificially in order to arouse the public conscience, there can be significant societal change. The challenge for us as fund development professionals is to identify within our communities and donor databases those lonely pioneers willing to devote their lives and fortunes to our causes and work beside them. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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102: Generosity and Wisdom 4:50

7 weeks ago4:50

4:50

"...Two different roads are presented to us, equally leading to the attainment of this so much desired object; the one, by the study of wisdom and the practice of virtue; the other, by the acquisition of wealth and greatness..." This week, I’m reflecting on a quote by Adam Smith from The Theory of Moral Sentiments , published in 1759. Reflection question: As we show generosity to wealthier donors, are we also cultivating a character of humble modesty and equitable justice? Reflection on quote: Last week, we talked about generous love to various categories of people: those poor, those wealthy, and those peers. As we show generosity to our donors, we can fall into a trap. While we are no longer concerned with ordering society by class distinctions, Smith challenges us to take the path of humble modesty and equitable justice as we fashion our behaviors towards our donors. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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101: Service, Courtesy, & Giving 5:31

7 weeks ago5:31

5:31

"I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing, therefore, that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” This week, I’m reflecting on the words of Henry Drummond from The Greatest Thing in the World , published in 1874. Reflection question: How are we showing the generous love found in service, courtesy, and giving this week? Reflection on quote: How we treat those we serve whether our constituents or donors and volunteers is an outgrowth of how we love. A generous love includes three aspects: service, courtesy, and giving. In my opinion, this quote truly sums up the aspirational nature of fund development work. Service, courtesy, and giving. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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100: Search for Meaning 4:51

9 weeks ago4:51

4:51

"...Donor prospects are not objects; they are subjects, and like all of us, they want to contribute to something meaningful and life-giving and successful. Like us, they too search for meaning, have fears and hopes, desires and regrets, and beliefs that should be acknowledged and reverenced..." In honor of the 100th episode, this week, I am re-reading two quotes from the first episode from Imagining Abundance. Fundraising, Philanthropy, and A Spiritual Call to Service. Kerry Alys Robinson. 2014 . Reflection questions: How will you pause this week and consider if you are seeing a donor as an object or a subject? When was the last time you asked a donor to share why they give and what meaning they would like for their gifts to have? Reflection on quote: Over the last two years, we have looked at writings on generosity to inform our fund development work today. Instead of discussing the latest fundraising techniques, we have reflected on these writings - from ancient to modern and from all cultures — to learn from them value of generosity. This podcast continues to seek that deeper wisdom of being a person in the beautiful space where generosity occurs. Each week, the intent remains to take five minutes to reflect on a quote and one or two coaching questions to ground us for the week to come. Especially in times of societal and economic uncertainties, we as fundraisers can feel the stress of meeting the budget and serving our mission. And, when we feel that stress, we can begin to treat donors are objects. We miss that donors find meaning through their gifts. When we step back from our stress and seek to understand the meaning the donor is seeking, often their gifts are a greater blessing to us. It is a collaboration to find meaning and may even heal our sorrows of life. To purchase this book: Imagining Abundance. Fundraising, Philanthropy, and A Spiritual Call to Service. Permissions granted for use of this quote. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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99: Joy of Discovery 4:45

10 weeks ago4:45

4:45

"...Humble ignorance can imagine that it might be wrong and hopes that its community will correct it early enough to avoid harm. It can marvel at what it sees that it cannot hope to understand or control...." This week, I’m reading a quote from Imposed Ignorance and Humble Ignorance - Two Worldviews by Paul Heltne , published in 2008. Reflection Questions: Are we building structures and processes in our work that demand certainty or are we building those structures and processes to encourage discovery and wonder? Are we willing to be honest and humble with donors when we need to make a course correction? Reflection on the Quote Earlier this week, I was coaching a client through the process of asking for a corporate sponsorship. She knew that this was an area that she knew little about, but instead of being defensive, she embraced this ignorance with openness and curiosity. It stuck me. How am I approaching my ignorance whether it’s about a donor or a fundraising technique or a trend in the field. This also applies to generosity. We can approach donor relationships with certainty, with standard practices, and yet we may never find out the true reason a donor is giving to our organizations. In the face of our certainty, the donor may feel foolish to ask questions or be open with us. Or, we can approach donor relationships with this humble ignorance. We can build the relationship on a foundation of discovery, wonder, and openness. We can marvel at unexpected gifts. We can make course corrections and be honest with donors. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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98: Active Charity 4:51

11 weeks ago4:51

4:51

"...Let us, then, be up and doing, With a heart for any fate; Still achieving, still pursuing, Learn to labor and to wait." This week, I'm reflecting on a poem, A Psalm of Life , by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, published in 1838. Reflection questions: How does thinking of your donors as partners as well change your perspective? If you are in the middle of a fundraising campaign, when was the last time you gave an update to your donors, to your partners for this campaign? Reflection on poem: This week, I was reminded of the active nature of charity by donors. One of my clients was near the finish line of raising enough to meet their goal and move forward on a capital projects. But, just before the deadline they were short. Just a small gap. They called one of the donors to the project and shared the information about the gap. What did the donor do? He committed to calling his network to fill the gap. And, the gap was filled. It reminded me the quote often attributed to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. “The life of a man consists not in seeing visions and dreaming dreams, but in active charity and in willing service.” This quote is a paraphrase of his poem, A Psalm of Life. When we are in the middle of a fundraising campaign, we often think of people as just potential donors. In reality, many of these donors are also partners. They have chosen us and our organizations as a conduit to the cause they care about. Donors chose the charity, not the other way around. That means many of them are emotionally invested into the success of the campaign. They want to come alongside and be a partner. They want to act, achieve, pursue success for the cause. Just like this donor helping my client cross the finish line. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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97: Fullness of Generosity 4:56

11 weeks ago4:56

4:56

"...There is a difference between quantity and fullness. You can have a lot of money and still be empty. There is no fullness in your heart...." This week, Pope Francis passed away. In honor of his teaching on generosity, I am reflecting on his homily from November 8, 2015 . Reflection question: Are you asking for leftover generosity? Or, are you asking for true generosity in your messages to donors? Reflection on quote: In his words, he talks about giving from fullness and not from leftovers. This is a mark of true generosity. Yes, sometimes, our messages to donors request the leftovers. Can you spare a dollar? Every bit counts. Would you just fill the gap? Remember us in your will. All of these phrases give the impression that the donor would only want to give from their leftovers. Yet, that makes the decision for them and deprives them of true, sacrificial generosity. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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96: Unexpected Gift 5:38

12 weeks ago5:38

5:38

"... If donors are largely unaware of fluctuations in the grants received by charities, then reductions in fund-raising becomes a sensible explanation for crowding out..." This week, I came across a large scale research article from 2009 titled, “ Is Crowding Out Due Entirely to Fundraising? ” Reflection questions: If your organization suddenly lost significant government funding, what unique strengths, especially through your donor relationships, could you leverage to better serve your specific community's needs? The nonprofit sector has faced profound shifts before. Will you ponder with me how our current challenges could bring unexpected gifts as well? Reflection on quotes The last three months have highlighted a critical challenge many nonprofits face: the delicate balance between government funding and private donations. Many nonprofits have built programs around federal grants, only to see them reduced or eliminated, leaving the organization scrambling to fill the gap. So many of my coaching sessions have centered around this issue. One striking statistic from this 17 year look-back research is that every $1000 grant reduces giving by $727. So, I invite you to join me in reflecting on how the reversal of "crowding out effect” that federal funding has on fundraising may actually help us build more sustainable funding models for the future. Let's be honest – the loss of federal funding creates real hardship. When grants and contracts disappear, the impact is immediate and often devastating. Programs get cut, staff positions eliminated, and communities lose vital services. I've worked with many organizations facing this exact situation, and I want to acknowledge that rebuilding fundraising capacity takes time – often multiple years – and private donations rarely replace federal dollars on a one-to-one basis. But here's what I am pondering. Smaller, local nonprofits have something that larger institutions often lack: nimbleness and deep community connections. When a nonprofit is no longer bound by rigid federal guidelines, the nonprofit gains the freedom to design programs that truly reflect their community's unique needs and strengths. I've witnessed a remarkable transformation when an organization shifts from "We need to design this program to meet grant requirements" to "We need to design this program to meet our community's actual needs." This pivot often leads to more innovative, responsive, and ultimately sustainable services. This pivot also tends to engage our donors more deeply into the mission. This engagement could create a more diverse and loyal donor base. Unlike government funding that can disappear with budget cuts or changing priorities, community-based support tends to be more stable and adaptable over time. Our donors become true partners in our mission rather than just funding sources. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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95: Network of Care 4:58

13 weeks ago4:58

4:58

..."It is the most beautiful, the most noble side of neighbourly love, wherein the word has fully become deed..." This week, I’m sharing quotes from The Untapped Power of Jewish Fellowships and Forgotten Approaches to Care to connect the practice of hevrot to our work in fundraising. Reflection questions: How are you “thinking in relationship” to avoid depersonalizing our donors? How are you bringing groups of donors together to create networks of care? Reflection on quote: At its core, fundraising isn't just about securing donations—it's about fostering genuine human connections built on care and mutual recognition. This week, I’ve been researching the Jewish practice of hevrot. The article, The Untapped Power of Jewish Fellowships, defines hevrot as small, local voluntaristic groups of individuals who join together to do good works or promote piety. The practice dates to at least the second century. The research in Forgotten Approaches to Care further explores this practice. Rather than seeing donors simply as sources of financial support, we recognize them as partners in a shared mission. When we frame our work through an ethics of care, we acknowledge the interdependence that exists between all members of our community. Think about what makes fundraising truly meaningful—it's not just the transaction but "the most beautiful, the most noble side of neighbourly love, wherein the word has fully become deed." When we approach donors with this mindset, we invite them into a relationship built on genuine care rather than mere obligation. As fundraisers, we have the privilege of weaving these networks of care that strengthen our entire community. When we face challenges or donor fatigue, we return to this fundamental truth: we're not just raising money—we're connecting people to purpose and to each other. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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94: Strive for a Good Cause 5:30

16 weeks ago5:30

5:30

"...There's only one thing I will not concede: that it might be meaningless to strive for a good cause." This week, I’m reflecting on his words from Summer Meditations by Vacslav Havel, published in 1993. Reflection question: What is the internal battle within yourself that you are facing related to the external threats to the cause you serve? And, how will you stand for principle in that internal battle? Reflection on the quote: When I consider the challenges we face in raising sufficient funding for the good causes we serve, I look for wisdom those who faced greater challenges that I will ever face. I think of those who faced torture for speaking truth, those who faced imprisonment for desiring a more just world. One such writer was Vacslav Havel. He was a playwright and political dissident - tortured and imprisoned for speaking against the lies of a repressive government. His writings speak to persistence in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. When we face external threats to the cause we serve or the funding we receive, we also face an internal battle within ourselves. Do we give up or give in? Or, do we continue to work for what is right and good? When we stand for principle decently, reasonably, sincerely, civilly, and tolerantly, it gives hope and it attracts donors to wish to stand with us. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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93: Sincere Charity without Delay 4:24

18 weeks ago4:24

4:24

"...Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity..." This week, I’m reflecting on several sayings of the Prophet Mohammad and the Quran and along with the definition of Sadaqah . Reflection questions: How are framing our messaging around giving to include this meaning of charity as speaking truth? How do we give our donors the opportunity to speak truth, to speak up when our missions are facing some type of external challenge? Reflection on quotes: We are in the middle of Ramadan, a holy month for Muslims. A common practice during the month is giving voluntarily to charity, which is also known sadaqah. The meaning of each religious concept of charity points to the underlying motivation. The word, sadaqah, is defined as to be truthful, true or sincere, to speak the truth, to establish or confirm the truth of what is said, sincerity, soundness, excellence in a variety of different objects and the giving for the sake of Allah. In general, sadaqah means a noble act of giving by a person to others sanctified for the sake of Allah in many forms and ways according to one researcher. So, this week, I’m reflecting on several sayings of the Prophet Mohammad and the Quran. As I read the definition of sadaqah, I thought about how giving brings truth to the donor, the organization or person receiving it, and to our communities. By giving, the donor has the opportunity to engage more deeply with the causes we serve. By giving, the donor lives out their true intentions and desires for our communities. By giving, the donor speaks the truth that our missions matter. These quotes have entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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92: Execise of Virtue in the Face of Indecision 4:42

19 weeks ago4:42

4:42

“...Confidence is that feeling by which the mind embarks in great and honorable courses with a sure hope and trust in itself...” This week, I’m reflected on the words of Cicero as weaved through several of his works, published between 89 BC and 43 BC. Reflection questions: Is there an area where you are stuck in indecision and procrastination? How can you bring confidence, hope, or trust in a good outcome to that area of indecision? Reflection on quotes: This week, I’m been thinking about the effects of indecision and procrastination. Why does it become so hard to take the first step? To follow though? To pick up the phone? To schedule the meeting? To write the letter? Our indecision and procrastination not only affects us, but it robs donors of the joy of generosity when we delay giving them the opportunity to be involved. Indecision can steal from our nonprofits when we wait too long before asking a donor and they move onto a different cause. When we are stuck in the misery of indecision and memories of past blunders, we must reflect on the great and honorable causes that we serve. And, trust that there is a beautiful space of generosity when we invite donors into that space. These works have entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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91: (Nonprofits Have) A Power Conspicuous 3:37

20 weeks ago3:37

3:37

"Thenceforth they are no longer isolated individuals, but a power conspicuous from the distance whose actions serve as an example; when it speaks, people listen...." This week, I’m reading selected quotes from Democracy in America by Alexis De Tocqueville . Published in 1835. Note: his use of the word association is our current word for nonprofit. Reflection questions: How are we sharing the impact of the causes we serve? In sharing our impacts, are we welcoming our communities to unite with us and have their power enhanced? How are we showing donors the collective impact we have together by combining our efforts? Reflection on quote: In this time of anxiety, let us not forget the power nonprofits have to create purpose. When each of us trying to work independently, we are weak. We can cause little change and we can’t force others to help. When, however, we combine as nonprofits to meet the needs in our community, our communities listen. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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90: When All We Can Do Is Laugh 4:52

20 weeks ago4:52

4:52

"....The Stage which was not for low Farce design'd, But to divert, instruct, and mend Mankind." This week, I’m reading from the play The Modern Husband by Henry Fielding, published in 1732. Reflection Question: There are times when stress is only relieved with a bit of dark humor. How will you gather with your community of friends and colleagues to laugh in the face of the absurdities we face in our fund development work? Reflection on the Recorded Quote: There are days that if we are not laughing, we are crying. Those are the times for a bit of dark humor. When our work feels like a dark comedy or a nightmare, we can remind ourselves that past generations faced similar challenges. They too saw folly perceived as brilliance. This is why in 1732 Fielding wrote, “a rich man without charity is a rogue, and perhaps it would be no difficult matter to prove that he is also a fool.” This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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89: Generosity with Discernment 4:05

21 weeks ago4:05

4:05

"...Where there is quiet and meditation, there is neither worry nor dissipation...." This week, I’m reflecting on Of the Virtues putting Vices to Flight by Francis of Assisi, first published in English in 1906. Reflection questions: Which virtue do you want to cultivate this week? Complete this sentence, This week, I want our donors to know and feel... Reflection on quote: As I record this week’s reflection, there continues to be so much upheaval for nonprofits. How we respond matters to our missions in the long-term. Yes, from the last two episodes, we can lean into enmity or we can pull back from engaging with our donors. Yet, both options lead to long-term damage to our donor relationships and our communities. As we continue in our work amidst the uncertainty, what posture should we have? In the face of uncertainty, what do these virtues do? When we lean into patience and humility, we react calmly. This leads to increased trust by our donors. This increased trust helps when we share hard news of funding losses or program closures. When there is poverty borne with joy, we communicate an attitude of abundance. This allows generosity to become contagious among our donors who know that we are not asking just to ask nor are we asking from a place of failure. When there is quiet and mediation, we have thought through the implications of decisions made outside of our control. This tempers any frantic worry or unwise spending decisions. We are then able to provide donors with a balanced view of what is needed now and what will be required in the future. When we embrace mercy and discernment with our donors, we don’t take them for granted nor do we become hardened to them when they hold a political position different than ours. This gives space to educate our donors to the impacts that this current uncertainty has on our mission and our partners. As we educate our donors, their generosity takes on more meaning for the donor and within their network as they discuss why are they giving now. These virtues truly do put vices to flight in our development work. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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88: Generosity in Ordinary Acts 4:01

22 weeks ago4:01

4:01

"...for the growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts;..." This week, I am reflecting a quote from George Eliot’s Middlemarch , published in 1871. Reflection questions: When you feel caught up in the uncertainty of this time, what are a few acts of love and kindness that you can do? When was the last time you brainstormed small ways that donors can be involved as a partner with the mission you serve? Will you take time this week to do that? Reflection on quotes: Last week, I shared quotes about generosity in uncertain times, especially times when personal insults become the norm and it can be tempting to use enmity in fundraising. While insults and enmity can lead to short-term fundraising boosts, the boosts are rarely sustained; whereas, the damage to our community remains. This damage is partly due to the apathy that it creates. During uncertain times, the ordinary people who are our donors often feel overwhelmed. When we ratchet up that uncertainty through fundraising with enmity, over the long-term, donors then begin to feel powerless and apathetic. This leads to a decrease in their giving. And, yet, neuroscience has proven that the act of giving boosts a donor’s mood and their feelings of agency. They no longer feel as powerless. As we share with donors the small acts of kindness and love that they can do through their donations, we empower them to partner with us to keep the uncertainty in check. We empower them to grow the good in each of our communities through these unhistoric acts. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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87: Generosity in These Times 4:59

23 weeks ago4:59

4:59

"...God blesses those people who make peace. They will be called his children!..." This week, I am reading the words of Jesus and His approach to opponents from Matthew 5 and 6. View the Calvin and Hobbes cartoon about Enmity and Fundraising Letters from July 7, 1995. Reflection questions: If you were to give your fundraising appeal to an opponent to read, how would they respond? Would the letter be consider fair? Considerate? Even loving? When you are speaking with a donor about an opponent of your mission, are you portraying the opponent in the best possible light even if you are outlining policy or tactical disagreements? Reflection on quote: My favorite cartoon is Calvin and Hobbes. On July 7, 1995, the cartoonist Bill Watterson published a particularly apt description of a trend in fundraising. While I encourage you to view the cartoon and I have placed the link in the show notes, let me read the captions. Calvin states, “I’m writing a fund-raising letter. The secret to getting donations is to depict everyone who disagrees with you as the enemy. Then you explain how they’re systemically working to destroy everything you hold dear. It’s a war of values! Rational discussion is hopeless! Compromise is unthinkable! Our only help is well-funded antagonism to keep up the fight. Hobbes replies. How cynically unconstructive. Calvin responds, Enmity sells.” Enmity in fundraising does sell. The short-term gains by creating enemies and fear are measurable. Yet, in the long-term, true generosity suffers. As I record this week’s podcast, the United States is in political turmoil. And, unfortunately, there are those in fundraising who will take the opportunity to double-down on enmity in their fundraising copy. And, I’m genuinely grieved when I read these fundraising appeals where people are made to be the enemy. People are never the enemy. We can disagree about policies and tactics. But, when we make people the enemy instead, we are creating fear among our donors with their own neighbors and in doing so we break down societal and community bonds. This not only hurts our opponents, but it will do long term damage to generosity and our own organizations. The text of Matthew 5 and 6 have entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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86: Never Wasted 3:53

24 weeks ago3:53

3:53

"..No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” This week, I’m reading a story from Aesop’s Fables, titled the Lion and the Mouse as told sometime between 620 and 564 BC. Reflection question: What kindness can you give to a donor this week? Reflection on quote: It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that the relationship with donors is only about asking or thanking. A donor gives, and we thank them and report back on the impact their gifts has. Yet, relationships with donors can be so much more than that. Relationships with donors can be filled with small kindnesses. It’s the time we spend getting to know them and showing them that we see them for who they are. It’s the opportunities to give a kind word. It’s the giving space to the donor to find more meaning in their lives. And, sometimes it’s even practical help. During the toilet paper shortage of COVID, one of my clients had excess toilet paper and offered it to donors. A kindness is never wasted in our relationships with donors. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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85: Contributions to Justice 4:10

25 weeks ago4:10

4:10

"...How lovely that everyone, great and small, can make their contribution toward introducing justice straight away!..." This week, I’m reading from Give , an essay from Anne Frank, published in 1959. Reflection questions: Pick a task on your to-do list this week and imagine your colleagues in other nonprofits doing the same task. What impact does your combined efforts have on your community? Where are you lacking in courage? To whom can you turn to receive support in that area? Reflection on quote: One of the unique blessings of being a fundraising coach is that I have the privilege of seeing the work of various nonprofits each week. While each of my clients may feel as though their work is small or insignificant that week, I get to see all of these works combining together to create a more beautiful, just, and caring world. What is on your to-do list this week? It might be writing thank you notes or helping out in the mission or programs of the nonprofit you serve. It could be meeting with a donor or preparing a lapsed donor campaign. Each of these tasks may seem insignificant; however, each task builds a foundation for a more generous society. Those tasks are then combined with the tasks done in other nonprofits in your community and in the world. Together, each day, we are creating a beautiful, just, caring, and generous world together, even when our work feels insignificant or hopeless. As Anne Frank wrote, give, give again and again, don’t lose courage, keep it up and go on giving. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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84: Striving Valiantly for Generosity 3:44

27 weeks ago3:44

3:44

"...It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong person stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better...." This week, I’m reading from Citizenship in a Republic , a speech given by Theodore Roosevelt in 1910, changing the word man to person. Reflection questions: Are you second-guessing yourself or letting criticism steal the joy of giving donors the opportunity to be generous? Is there an area where you simply need to let go and remember that this is a new week and new month to start over again? Reflection on quote: In my experience, January is one of the toughest months for fundraising professionals. Not because of the workload. No. No, it’s the exhaustion, doubt, and, at times, criticism after year-end giving season that makes January tough. Yes, January is often a debrief of what we could have done differently with year-end giving. And, yet, as the saying goes, “hindsight is 20/20.” In the moment, you were doing your best. Yes, there is a time for debrief and understanding the factors that led to increases or decreases in giving. Yet, remember that the fact you showed up, gave donors the opportunity to give, and then - something which is completely out-of-your-control - let donors decide. You strove valiantly. Rest in that fact. This quote has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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83: Waiting for Generosity 3:28

27 weeks ago3:28

3:28

"...Patient living means to live actively in the present and wait there. Waiting, then, is not passive. It involves nurturing the moment.." This week, I am reflecting on selected quotes from Henri Nouwen from the The Path of Waiting , published in 1995 and Bread for the Journey , published in 1996. Reflection questions: When you are meeting with donors, are you listening with full attention and waiting with the donor to discover more about themselves? Think about the areas where you are waiting, is there something you can do to nurture the donor relationship? Reflection on quotes: For those of us in the fundraising field, learning to wait is essential. We wait for the right timing to ask. We wait for donors to decide to give. We wait for news about a grant application. We spend a lot of time waiting. We wait, trusting that our work will bring about the fruit of generosity. As we wait, we are active in nurturing relationships. We listen and wait while donors discover more about themselves and a potential connection to our cause. If we become impatient and just move onto the next new potential donor relationship, while it feel like we are doing something, in reality, we will find that the moment, that new space, is just as empty. We can’t avoid the waiting. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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82: To the Days of Generosity Ahead 1:07

29 weeks ago1:07

1:07

As you know, this podcast highlights the transformative beauty of generosity. I will be taking a brief break until January 6, and in the meantime, I encourage you to reflect on the role of generosity within your own holiday traditions. As I consider the myriad of holidays during this season, I am reminded of the universal themes of generosity and connection that they all share. Yet, in the flurry of holiday preparations, it's easy to overlook the simple but profound gift of giving that is at the heart of each celebration. As we move through this season, I invite you to reflect on this question: How will you show generosity to yourself during this busy season, so you can pour from a full cup of love and kindness to others? Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Until January 6. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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81: Planting Generosity for Others 4:48

30 weeks ago4:48

4:48

"...Therefore one should not cease from planting. Rather, just as he found, one should still continue to plant even though he is old..." This week, I’m a story from Midrash Tanchuma Kedoshim 8:1 , written sometime between 500 to 800 AD and published in 1885. Reflection question: How will you plant seeds for fund development programs, like legacy giving, that take longer to see the benefits? Reflection on quote: Recently, I have been assisting my clients with starting legacy programs; that is, encouraging long-term donors to give through their will and bequest. Some of these organizations have donor bases of older donors who have already started to think about giving a gift upon their death. Other organizations don’t have many older donors. So a question might come up, why waste precious time now to create a program without an immediate impact? Yes, starting a legacy program may seem like a long-term endeavor with uncertain immediate rewards. However, the wisdom from this story underscores that we must begin planting the seeds of a legacy program now. By encouraging donors to consider legacy gifts, we are creating a sustainable future for ourselves. While the benefits may not be realized for years, the impact can be profound. Yet, as this story also alludes to, there may be a more immediate blessing to donors who wish to consider their legacy in the future. By considering their long-term impact, donors can find deep satisfaction in knowing that their values and passions will live on. The act of planning a legacy can be a transformative experience. It allows donors to reflect on their lives, identify why our organization is one of their most cherished causes, and consider their lasting mark in their community. This process can bring a sense of peace and purpose, knowing that their generosity will be a testament to the power of giving in their lives. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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80: Luck of the Draw 4:02

31 weeks ago4:02

4:02

"...In the same way, as you are unable to take care of all of your fellow people, treated as the luck of the draw when the time and circumstance brings some into closer contact with you than others." This week, I’m reading a quote from De Doctrina Christiana by Augustine, published in 397 AD. Reflection questions: Is there an area of your work where you need to step back and apply this framework: accepting our limits, focusing on what we can do, and releasing that which we can’t do or whom we can’t help? Related, what do you need to let go of and find freedom in that release? Reflection on the quote: Have you ever been overwhelmed by the sheer need of our work, and yet feel a bit crushed by limits we face in our work? While we often feel like our challenges are new, that we face problems no one else has ever encountered. But history, as they say, rhymes. The human condition, with all its complexities and contradictions, remains constant. The needs have overwhelmed those who care for over a thousand years. When we feel that weight of the world on our shoulders, the overwhelming sense of need, the constant pull to do more, to be more, this quote gives us some practical wisdom. We first accept that our ability to help is constrained by our circumstances. We can’t do everything. We can’t solve every problem, heal every wound, or right every wrong. Second, we identify what we have, especially our time, resources, and capacity. Third, we prioritize that which we can do. We can cause change in our own local communities, focusing our efforts on those within our reach. Finally, there is freedom in seeing that sometimes it’s just the luck of the draw for whom we can help or for what we can do. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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79: Generosity Repairs the World 3:40

32 weeks ago3:40

3:40

“Whoever practices charity and justice fills the world with loving kindness.” This week, I’m reading quotes from Sukkah 49b about tzedakah. Reflection questions: How are we giving donors that vision of repairing the world through their gifts? What are ways that we can practice tzedakah with donors? That is, practicing justice, peace, and loving kindness with donors instead of just receiving donations from donors? Reflection on the quote: This week, I’ve been reading about tzedakah, the Jewish tradition of charity. However, it’s meaning is so much broader than the traditional idea of giving a donation. Within its meaning are also the concepts of justice and righteous behavior. In the article I was reading, the author stated that it’s the way in which we repair world. In addition, instead of giving charity to someone - the emphasis on to someone, it must be done with someone. The emphasis is on with, meaning to come alongside, to journey with someone when giving a gift to them. In our work, we accept tzedakah, that is, the generosity of others. And, through our work, we are partnering with these donors to repair the world and bring about justice and care for both the poor and the rich. In doing so, we are filling the world with lovingkindness, peace, and confidence that the arc of history bends towards justice as Martin Luther King Jr. stated. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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63: Persistence and Joy 3:22

48 weeks ago3:22

3:22

"...The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause..." This week, I’m reading from Citizenship in a Republic , a speech given by Theodore Roosevelt in 1910. Reflection question: How will you let the dust, sweat, and blood from last week go and look forward to daring greatly this week? Reflection on Quote: Earlier this week, I attended the grand opening of our local library. The capital campaign had been delayed and had faced many obstacles and criticisms. Despite of all this, the volunteer members of the fundraising committee persisted. And, the joy at the grand opening was contagious all because these volunteers decided to keep going. Too often we are distracted by obstacles and criticisms. Our work is hard, dust, sweat and blood. We make errs and we will come short at times. But, we are spending ourselves for a worthy cause and we are daring greatly. And, when we persist in our work, we like the volunteers on the fundraising committee have ability to bring joy to those in our communities. This quote has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

34 weeks ago4:32

4:32

Reflections on Generosity

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76: Accept Gifts with Cheerfulness 4:55

35 weeks ago4:55

4:55

"...When we have decided to accept, let us accept with cheerfulness, showing pleasure, and letting the giver see it, so that he or she may at once receive some return for their goodness..." This week, I am reading a quote from On Benefits by Seneca the Younger , published in 59 AD. Reflection Question: No matter the donor or the donor’s motivation, how are you and I receiving gifts? What is the attitude of our hearts? Reflection on Quote: When we look back over the last few months, what has been our attitude in accepting gifts? Seneca describes a number of attitudes that can accompany the receiving of a gift from cheerfulness to offense to slavish humility. Beyond the attitudes he describes, I would add one more. Busyness. When we do not add enough margin to our days, especially during busy fundraising seasons, we can neglect saying thank you and thus give the appearance that the donations are not needed. Or, we can instead take the time and aim to accept gifts with cheerfulness. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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75: Generosity Begins with Us 3:50

36 weeks ago3:50

3:50

"...A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed...." This week, I’m reading a quote from the Jewish wisdom on generosity from Proverbs 11 . Reflection questions: As you wait for donors to respond to a campaign, have you given to the mission you serve? How are you leading this week in your daily life with the intention of generosity in your own life? Reflection on Quote: A part of any campaign is the waiting. We wait for a donor to join us in that beautiful space called generosity. In that space is both the donor and us, you and I. If we are asking donors to be generous, what should we doing? As we wait for donors to join us in that beautiful space of generosity, our hearts must be transformed by generosity as well. As a consultant, my work has been to teach nonprofits on how to encourage generosity from their donors. Several years back, I had an epiphany. I was asking others to be generous - even sacrificially generous, yet I had never stopped to reflect on my own generosity. Now, it happened to be around tax time, so I took a look at past tax returns and those itemized charitable deductions. And, honestly, I was a bit ashamed. I myself wasn’t giving freely. I was asking others to give freely, but I was unduly withholding. From that year on, I have set a goal to give freely and there has been much joy as a result. When we give, we are also seeding generosity in our organization’s culture and into the staff around us. We are showing our colleagues that we care about their work. That is an opportunity to refresh them. It shows confidence in the hard work of the staff and volunteers. To the frontline and back-office staff, it shows that we are grateful for the daily and sometimes mundane routines of running the office that allows our mission to happen. To the program staff, it encourages them to continue into their work. When we give, we are less worried about asking. As the quote stated, one person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but ends up impoverished. When we give first, our fundraising campaigns become less about the ask and more about the opportunity for others to join in that beautiful space of generosity. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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74: Wisdom and Rest 4:47

37 weeks ago4:47

4:47

"...For with wisdom cometh patience, And with patience cometh rest..." This week, I am reading the poem The Hardest Time of All , by Sarah Doudney. Written in 1896. Reflection Questions: Where are you waiting for some major change to occur as a result of your work? Is it time to gain more wisdom or to be more patient or to stop and rest in that area? Will you take the time to document your hopes for change in the coming year and then schedule an email to send that reflection to yourself in a year as a way to see that those hardest times of waiting was when the change was actually occurring? Reflection on the poem: This week, I attended our statewide Association of Fundraising Professionals conference, just to sit in the audience and learn. A recurring theme was perseverance in small daily tasks that will yield fruit. Our work does take patience in order to see change. Whatever your faith tradition, let’s take a moment to reflect on wisdom, patience, and rest as it works itself out in faith. With wisdom comes patience and patience comes rest. If we stop and reflect on the changes that have occurred in the last year, in those moments, those changes would have seemed minuscule filled with times of waiting. Yet, after a year of those tasks - making calls, sending emails, writing thank you notes - I am confident that you can look back and see major changes just as the poem - we must wait for the blossoms to fall in order to gather the fruit. And now, the hardest time of all - or should I say, the hardest time in the next few months is to continue to actively wait for breakthroughs and major changes. But, in wisdom, patience, perseverance, and rest, we see the real difference we are making. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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73: Generosity Builds Democracy 4:35

38 weeks ago4:35

4:35

..."An association [nonprofit] is an educated and powerful body of citizens which cannot be twisted to any person's will or quietly trodden down,..." This week, I’m reading selected quotes from Democracy in America by Alexis De Tocqueville, published in 1835. Note. His use of the word association is our current word for nonprofit. Reflection questions: Are you getting caught up how national events affect the nonprofit you serve? Will you instead reflect on ways your nonprofit is improving your community through the power of association and democracy? How are you giving opportunities for donors to see that they are a part of that powerful body of citizens that work together to save common liberties? Reflection on quote: In the United States, we are in the middle of election season. As nonprofit leaders, we can wonder and even worry about the effect the election will have on the missions we serve. However, instead of getting caught up in that worry, we can look to the role of nonprofits in democracies and how generosity promotes democracy. Let’s consider these ideas that, according de Tocqueville, nonprofits have a vital role in maintaining democracy. Nonprofits through our missions allow citizens to act together to alleviate the challenges we see in our community. Through the networks of nonprofits and citizens acting together, we bring arts and culture, preserve places for people to enjoy history, nature, and learning, help vulnerable individuals, families, children, and animals, protect the environment, and so much more. We defend and civilize our communities. And, also according to his writing in 1835, generosity to nonprofits creates an educated and powerful body of citizens that saves common liberties. When donors give, they become more engaged in our missions and feel more responsible to see our missions succeed. A colleague often states that nonprofit work is the most pure form of democracy; that is, people coming together in consensus for the common good of our missions. When those with wealth, at any amount, choose not to keep their wealth and instead are generous, that wealth is combined with the knowledge of the common good of our missions and saves the common liberties to maintain civilization in our communities. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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72: Generosity or Transaction 3:38

39 weeks ago3:38

3:38

"...the potentially world-changing and life-giving power that may be present in or working through the goodness of the donors' hearts and souls; if only someone would acknowledge it, call it forth, and nurture it!" This week, I am reading a quote from Growing Givers’ Hearts: Treating Fundraising as Ministry by Thomas Jeavons and Rebekah Burch Basinger. 2000 edition. Reflection questions: Where are there areas that we are failing to recognize the world-changing and life-giving power that resides the donors’ hearts and souls? How are you giving space for donors to share their desire to be world changing and life giving? Reflection on quote: As we prepare for year-end giving or any fundraising campaign, how we message matters. Are we selling a transaction or inviting generosity? This quote reminds me of a conservation nonprofit client and their experience with a donation. The donor planned to give appreciated stock for their donation. When the donor was told how to avoid capital gains tax, they refused and instead insisted on selling the stocks, paying the capital gains tax, and donating the proceeds. This donor cared more about the world-changing and life-giving power that was present in or working through the goodness of his heart and soul than the tax break. When we consider our fundraising messages in our fundraising materials, we should avoid focusing on the tax deductions and other transactional benefits and instead we invite and nurture the generosity of donors who want to be a part of our missions. To purchase this book: Growing Givers’ Hearts: Treating Fundraising as Ministry by Thomas Jeavons and Rebekah Burch Basinger . Copyright permissions granted for use of this quote. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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71: Generosity Covers Failure 3:46

40 weeks ago3:46

3:46

“It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all - in which case, you fail by default.” JK Rowling This week, I’m reading various quotes to reflect on how generosity covers our failures. Reflection question: Are we letting failure harden or shame us? Or, are we letting generosity cover our failures with the desire to keep trying? Reflection on Quotes: Last week, I talked about failure and how to view failure. All this week, I’ve been thinking about how donors view our failures. Although we can Google a bunch of quotes about people not wanting others to be successful or root for our failures, that is not how donors view failures in our nonprofit work. Instead, because donors are investing in our work, they are cheering us on to move passed our failures. When donors see that we are seeking to succeed in our work, they will see failures as a learning process to better serve our missions in the future. What we do next matters. It’s easy to be ashamed or to let the failure harden us into never wanting to make a mistake again. Especially when we respect the sacrificial giving leads some donors to give to our organizations. However, our donors have not called us to live cautiously, to feed half a child or protect half the land or play half the music. No, their gifts cover our failures with a desire for us to keep trying, or as Brené Brown states, to keep daring greatly. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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70: Generosity in Failure 4:05

41 weeks ago4:05

4:05

"...All that happens, happens right: you will find it so if you observe narrowly..." This week, I am reading a quote from Meditations by Marcus Aurelius , written around 171 AD. Reflection questions: When you have failed in your work recently, how are observing narrowly for the right things that came out of it? Are you seeking perfection or goodness in your fundraising activities? Reflection on the quote: In working with over 100 clients, it’s not surprising that I’m well-acquainted with failure as well. A donor event that no one shows up to. An email campaign that raises zero dollars. A year-end direct mail campaign that goes out in January. A fundraising event where no one gives. As much as I want every campaign, event, fundraising activity to be successful, that’s not real life. So how do we grapple with that. This week, I am reading a quote from Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, written around 171 AD. All that happens, happens right. Notice that Aurelius did nt say, all that happens, happens perfectly. Or, successfully. But, he says “right if you observe narrowly.” We can get stuck in embarrassment or paralysis. We can fear that donors will stop giving to us because of our failure. Instead, a failure can help us have more honest interactions with donors. For instance, ask the donor help us understand the best way to give you the opportunity to donate. Or, a failure can lead to the right conversations with the right donors. For example, a smaller-than-hoped-for event can open up a more in-depth conversation that wouldn’t have been possible if the event was larger. Failures can lead to growth when we have the right attitude, which is the second half of the quote. Let your aim be goodness in every action. We don’t fail in fundraising because we want to fail. But we will fail because failure is a part of life. So, we don’t aim for perfection or status. We aim for goodness. Goodness for the cause that we serve. And, remember, donors don’t give to us. They give to the cause through us. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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69: Weep and Plant Again 4:01

42 weeks ago4:01

4:01

..."And then with a cry from his soul despairing,He bowed him down to the earth and wept.But a voice cried aloud from the driving rain;“Arise, old man, and plant again!” This week, I’m reading a poem, Disappointed , written by Paul Laurence Dunbar, published in 1913. Reflection question: Is there an area of your work where you have been disappointment and you need to stop and weep before moving forward? Reflection on the quote: This week, something sad happened with a nonprofit in my community. Often, I focus on the positive side of generosity. Yet, with generosity, sometimes there is a pain. It’s a pain that comes from striving for good and giving generously and yet seeing our work swept away. When we face times of disappointment, it is easy to respond in two ways. To give up and walk away from our work. We may walk away physically, leaving our job or volunteer position. Or, we walk away emotionally, no longer truly engaged in our work. The other way we can respond is to push through and act as though the disappointment didn’t happen. Unfortunately, disappointments build up and we can’t keep pushing without burning out. This poem gives a third way. Acknowledge the disappointment and pain. And then allow your soul to despair and weep. But, then have hope and arise again to your work. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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68: Living Splendor 4:01

43 weeks ago4:01

4:01

"...Life is so generous a giver, but we, judging its gifts by the covering, Cast them away as ugly, or heavy, or hard. Remove the covering and you will find beneath it a living splendor, Woven of love, by wisdom, with power..." This week, I’m reading a poem written by Greville MacDonald to his father George MacDonald in 1930. Reflection question: When will you take time to pause, wait, and look deeper to glimpse joy, beauty, and living splendor? Reflection on quote: In our work, it is easy to become overcome by the immediate needs we face. Unlike for-profit organizations, our goal is to put ourselves out of business by tackling challenges outlined in our mission and vision. Because of this, the immediate needs can lead to burnout and stress. But, if we pause, we can glimpse something else. Yes, our days are often full of trial, sorrow or duty. Yet, though our work we bring life, meaning, and purpose. And, within that, we can glimpse joy, beauty, and living splendor. As MacDonald writes, could we but see. That seeing takes time. Time for us to pause and waiting and look deeper beneath the covering and the shadows. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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67: Thinking and Deeds 4:57

44 weeks ago4:57

4:57

"...To think and to will without doing, when there is opportunity, is like a flame enclosed in a vessel and goes out; also like seed cast upon the sand, which fails to grow, and so perishes with its power of germination. But to think and will and from that to do is like a flame that gives heat and light all around, or like a seed in the ground that grows up into a tree or flower and continues to live..." This week, I’m reading a quote that sums up Johnny Appleseed’s beliefs from Heaven and Hell by Emmanuel Swedenborg, published in 1758. Reflection questions: How many of your fundraising goals are outcome goals and how many are process goals? How would your conversations with donors be different if you focused on process goals? Reflection on quote: Earlier this week, I read an article about goals and whether to envision the process to reach the outcome or the outcome. The article referenced the life and work of John Chapman; otherwise known as Johnny Appleseed. Like many, I pictured Johnny Appleseed as wandering aimlessly around the countryside, randomly sprinkling seeds that grew into trees and, against all odds, orchards. But that wasn’t the case at all. Instead, Johnny Appleseed, following his religious beliefs, knew the outcome he wanted; more apple trees for cider as an alternative to unsafe drinking water but then planned the process in which he met his goal. This came directly from his belief that our goals can’t be reached unless we act concretely upon them. As I read this quote and the article, I thought of our fundraising goals and our conversations with donors. We can set goals based on the outcome; that is, x number of dollars raised. Or, we can set goals based on the process of reaching the outcome; that is, x number of phone calls and meetings or x number of opportunities presented for donors to give. As the article and quote alluded to, we are more likely to reach the outcome goal if we envision the process to reach the outcome and create goals around that process. More importantly, by creating process goals, when we meet with donors, the conversation is undergirded less by the outcome and instead on the process of giving donors an opportunity to be generous. This quote has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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66: Curiosity 5:30

45 weeks ago5:30

5:30

"...The first and the simplest emotion which we discover in the human mind is curiosity..." This week, I’m reading a quote from On the Sublime and Beautiful by Edmund Burke, published in 1756. Reflection questions: What is your personality like: do you prefer the new and novel or the familiar and dependable? What do you think your donor base needs right now? And, based on what you know about your personality, are you willing to step outside your comfort zone to adapt to your donors’ needs? Reflection on Quote: In my work reviewing materials from fund development professionals, I often see two ends of the spectrum. Either the work is completely new - every story, every word, every way to invite the donor to join in the mission is new. On the other end the work is recycled year after year - the same story, the same words, the same call to action. Honestly, there are times where either one of those is appropriate - the new and the novel or the recycled and the dependable. We are, our donors are, naturally curious. We want to know the new, novel information, novel stories about the work we are supporting. For this reason, we start with blank screens to write fundraising letters, we brainstorm new events, and we gather new stories from our constituents. Yet, as Burke states, curiosity and novelty doesn’t bind us or our donors to a mission. For that reason, we also need to remind ourselves and our donors of the familiar stories. This is why the same fundraising event can be hosted for decades and still be raising more funds each year. It’s why the same fundraising letter can continue to be successful. And, it’s why we can tell and retell our origin stories so effectively. It’s a balance between the novel and the dependable. As professionals, we have to be adaptable to our donors between those two ends of the spectrum - blending curiosity with the familiar. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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65: Cultivate Success 4:05

47 weeks ago4:05

4:05

"...Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity..." This week, I am reading quotes from Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu from his various works. Reflection questions: Are you watering your fundraising appeals with worry and desperation? Or, are you watering them with kindness and optimism? During a busy fundraising season, how are you embracing the saying, “do your work, and then step back. The only path to serenity”? Reflection on Quote: In the United States, we have trained our donors to give between November and December, which means that a prepared fund development professional has already finished their year end letter. Or maybe not. Yes, when we enter a busy season of fundraising, it can be very stressful and that stress can leak out into the appeals we send. How we write our appeals to donors does affect the outcome. We can approach the writing with worry, fear, desperation. And, our appeals will reflect that fear and worry. And, our donors will react - some by giving out of fear, but others will choose not to give at all. Or, we can approach the writing with confidence, kindness, optimism, and solutions. And, our appeals will reflect that kindness and optimism. These appeals attract donors because they give donors a greater vision of what they can accomplish by joining with the mission and constituents we serve. This work has entered the public domain. What do you think? Send me a text. To explore fundraising coaching deeper and to schedule an exploratory session, visit ServingNonprofits.com . Music credit: Woeisuhmebop…

Reflections on Generosity

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64: Childhood Impacts Generosity 5:05

47 weeks ago5:05