Annual giving is the foundational program from which all other development efforts grow and flourish. Not only is annual giving a revenue source for enhancing your school’s programs, but it is also the starting place for many prospects as they begin and sustain their philanthropic relationship with your school.
Three Steps to Building a Strong Foundation for Your Alumni Association
Your alumni are some of your school’s most enthusiastic champions. They have matriculated through your programs, experienced your mission at work, and are now members of the community, exemplifying the outcomes your school aims to achieve.
How to Create a Successful Volunteer Program
Private schools rely on motivated and engaged volunteers to support fundraising initiatives, engage new families, participate in parent and alumni associations, and much more. Recruiting volunteers who make a difference can feel like an overwhelming task—but is vital to your school’s overall success.
Your Questions Answered: Building Fundraising Relationships in a Socially Distant World
We’re back with more answers to your questions about effective fundraising approaches, especially in a socially distanced world. Read on for our best advice about connecting with prospects and donors right now.
Your Questions Answered: Achieving Fundraising Success Right Now
The pandemic has altered fundraising approaches for many schools. Some traditional tactics are no longer viable. Schools must strategize new approaches to connect with prospects in a socially distanced world.
Knowing How to Accept (or Reject) Gifts
When a donor gives to your school, they make a deeply personal statement about their commitment to your students and your school’s mission. That’s why your school’s procedures should celebrate and strengthen the ties between that donor and your school. This holds true whether the gift is one you’re glad to have—or one you cannot accept.
Prepare for the Next Annual Giving Cycle
As Development Director, you understand the importance of operating a successful annual giving program. The revenue it provides can greatly enhance your programs and, in many schools (while not recommended by ISM) contribute to balancing your operating budget. Solid preparation for your yearly campaign can make a significant difference to your success.
Five Tips for Writing Effective Volunteer Job Descriptions
Once you have published your Guide to Giving and Getting Involved and have identified your school’s volunteer needs, it is time to develop job descriptions for each position. Well-crafted job descriptions help you match the required work with qualified individuals. You also have a reliable estimate of the time, resources needed to be successful, and a set of metrics you can use to celebrate your volunteers’ success. Include the following points when creating your job descriptions.
Create an Effective Development Committee
A key function of the Board is to plan for the school’s financial stability.
How to Create a Terrific Case for Support
One of the pillars of an effective fundraising campaign is your school’s Case for Support. The Case for Support communicates with donors and prospects, and begins the process of matching their values and interests with your school’s mission and guiding principles.
Here’s how to create a terrific Case that positions your school as a community asset worthy of philanthropic support.