Jobless Numbers: Why Fund Raisers Should Keep an Eye on Them

Fund raisers should keep a close eye on joblessness statistics. Those numbers will determine just how challenging fund raising in the bad economy will be, according to a new report.

Full-text article by Holly Hall available via The Chronicle of Philanthropy, 11.11.08.

Americans Plan to Cut Back Holiday Spending, But Not Giving

Americans may be cutting back on their holiday spending because of the economy, but they still plan to give to charity, according to a survey conducted for PayPal.

Full-text article by Caroline Preston available via The Chronicle of Philanthropy, 11.07.08.

What Makes Fund Raisers Succeed

A 2006 study of nearly 600 college and university fund raisers who solicit big gifts found that those who raise the most work for institutions that are more systematic in tracking and applying performance measures.

"Everybody is suddenly focused on this issue," says Bruce Flessner, a fund-raising consultant at Bentz Whaley Flessner, in Minneapolis. "People used to say that it takes money to raise money. Now people want to know if they are getting a good return on the investment."

Full-text article by Holly Hall is avaiable via The Chronicle of Philanthropy, 2.21.08.

Bentz Whaley Flessner Advisory: Giving Through Tough Economic Times

It appears as if most economists believe there is a good chance the United States may slip into a recession in 2008. Whether you think there is coming recession or not, one thing is clear: the current downturn in the stock market will be a challenge for fundraising this year.

What does this mean for you?
The answer to this economic challenge is not to give up on fundraising should a recession arrive in 2008; but rather, the solution is to work harder and smarter than you did in 2007. Consider the following strategies.

Read more of this January 2008 Advisory on the Bentz Whaley Flessner website and learn what steps you can take to strenghten donor relations through this tough economic period.