The Forgotten Foundations of Fundraising: Practical Advice and Contrarian Wisdom for Nonprofit Leaders

This book is intended primarily for those who are relatively new to fundraising or would like a refresher. It begins by orienting readers to a fundamental truth: donors care about belonging, community, and affirming their highest ideals more than they do measurable return on investment--and this is highly unlikely to change. Armed with this insight, and drawing on proprietary American Philanthropic survey data, this book will walk readers through the fundamental principles of raising money from donors small, large, and institutional, focusing on time-tested tactics like direct mail, personal meetings, donor clubs, and foundation solicitations. Fundraising is serious, but learning about it needn't be a chore. How to Raise Money is brisk, irreverent, and full of lively anecdotes taken from American Philanthropic's decade of experience working with more than 300 nonprofits from all walks of life. Readers who absorb its lessons will be well-prepared to help their organizations thrive.