Behind every fundraising strategy is a bigger question I’ve learned to ask myself: are we building trust, or just chasing dollars?
Behind every fundraising strategy is a bigger question I’ve learned to ask myself: are we building trust, or just chasing dollars?
In my years of working in fundraising, I’ve seen (and been part of) those moments when an organization gets pushed toward quick fixes—a flashy campaign, a special event, or a clever slogan—or is always working reactively. And sometimes those things are needed. But I’ve also learned that lasting, sustainable fundraising doesn’t come from the next tactic or crisis. It comes from getting the fundamentals right:
A clear strategy and vision, with goals defined and impact projected
Fundraisers who are resourced to focus on what matters most
Stewardship that authentically keeps donors updated and engaged
One of the best lessons I picked up early in my career was from a mentor who encouraged me, when talking with a prospective donor, to be upfront and ask: “Are you hoping to make a one-time gift, or do you see yourself investing in the long-term work to solve [insert your mission here]?”
That single question opened the door to deeper conversations. Donors would share their bigger philanthropy goals, and it helped me understand how we might partner for the long run. It was a win for everyone.
Campaigns, immediate needs, and events can absolutely play an important role in your organization. The key is making sure they tie into a larger strategy—cultivating, inviting, and stewarding donors in ways that build authentic, lasting relationships. For me, that’s the ❤️ of fundraising: not chasing money, but building sustainable partnerships with people who believe in your vision.
Donors don’t give simply to need or to close a budget gap. They give when they’re inspired by vision and can see a path toward measurable impact. Urgency might spark a gift once or twice, but it won’t sustain an organization over time.
💡 Two questions I often leave with organizations and fundraisers are:
Where are you spending more of your time—reacting to immediate needs, or intentionally building for the long game? And what would it look like to shift toward an 80/20 rule, with 80% of your energy focused on building the long-term?
Do you know your leadership’s vision and the roadmap toward impact? And if not, what’s keeping you from asking?