Donors are People
Larry C Johnson
Marquis Who's Who World Humanitarian showing nonprofit leaders how to achieve financial security through sustainable philanthropic revenue.
Yes, they are.
You’d think that was self-evident.? I haven’t seen lions, tigers or bears showing up on donor rolls, lately.
And yet,
By the words that fundraisers sometimes use, you might think otherwise.
Only recently, I’ve heard a fundraiser refer to a donor with significant giving ability as the “Big Kahuna”.? Another suggested that we should go out and “stalk” our prey to get an introduction.? Yes, that’s the word that was used.
Sounds more like big game hunting, doesn’t it?
It also gives me the creeps.
Most people I know are just a bit put off being treated as objects of prey. No wonder potential investors can smell the blood in the water.
But it’s just terminology, you say?
Yes it is.
But. . . . .
The the terms we use, however, shape and reinforce how we think.? They become immediate "tells" to others. Think you're not affected? How good are you at poker?
Principle 1 of The Eight Principles? is Donors are the Drivers?.? Donors drive philanthropy through their visions and values.
They’re people, too.
You’re not “stalking” you’re inviting.? You’re inviting them to an opportunity that is without price.?
If you can manage this frame of mind, 90% of your fundraising angst will disappear.
Veterans Service Representative | Serving Veterans, Building Relationships, Economic Development, Apprenticeship, Youth apprenticeship, Aerospace Apprenticeship, Chamber of Commerce, Embassy, Construction Training
8 个月https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/uslvicc_you-trusted-us-to-defend-your-countries-activity-7209677839053336576-CiPH?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android
--Refugee-led organizations (RLOs) are focal points of grassroots change
11 个月refugee-led organizations (RLOs) are focal points of grassroots change – and in crises are often their communities’ first and last line of defense. More broadly, supporting RLOs is a strategy that aligns with a global power shift, the humanitarian and development sector’s decolonization and localization efforts, and changing the narrative of refugees from one of dependency and helplessness to one of capability and power. Because your money is going directly to the frontline responders, they are able to use your money more efficiently, effectively and their interventions tend to be much more sustainable.
Vice President, Philanthropy
11 个月Well said. Donors should not be treated as objects to be hunted or preyed upon. YES they are people too. I share this perspective deeply. Thank you!