Fundraisers; or The Modern Sisyphus

In the annals of mythology, the tale of Sisyphus stands as a haunting reminder of the relentless pursuit of the unattainable. Condemned to an eternity of rolling a colossal boulder uphill, only to watch it cascade back down, Sisyphus epitomises the futile struggle against insurmountable odds.

As a seasoned fundraiser, I've found myself echoing Sisyphus's plight more often than I care to admit. The parallels between his punishment and the challenges faced by fundraising professionals are strikingly apparent.

In the modern landscape of charitable endeavours, fundraisers often find themselves burdened with Herculean targets and unrealistic expectations. Like Sisyphus, we push onward, driven by a desire to succeed against all odds, even when the task seems impossibly daunting.

However, the burden of fundraising cannot rest solely on the shoulders of a select few. It is a collective effort that requires the involvement and support of every individual within an organisation. We are all fundraisers, whether we bear the title or not.

Yet, all too frequently, fundraisers are left to navigate treacherous terrain alone. Success may be met with applause, but setbacks often breed hostility and suspicion. There exists a pervasive misunderstanding of the time and strategy required to cultivate a culture of giving—a misunderstanding that only serves to compound the challenges we face.

Blame cannot be placed solely on organisations for their lack of understanding. Fundraisers, too, bear responsibility for failing to manage expectations effectively. We must resist the temptation to oversell our capabilities and instead advocate for honesty and transparency from the outset.

The solution lies in open communication and collaboration between fundraisers and employers. Feasibility studies and research must underpin fundraising efforts, and long-term investment and support are paramount to success.

Fundraisers must recognise the importance of integrity and honesty in guiding organisations toward their goals. The allure of pleasing CEOs and trustees must be tempered by a steadfast commitment to truthfulness.

For those who find themselves trapped in the relentless cycle of unrealistic expectations, it is crucial to remember that evasion is not a solution. Like Sisyphus, we may delay the inevitable, but ultimately, honesty and integrity are the keys to breaking free from the modern Sisyphean trap.

So, as we strain against the weight of our burdens, let us not forget the lessons of Sisyphus. Let us push forward with integrity, knowing that only through honesty and collaboration can we escape the cycle of futility and frustration.

Edward Romain