Visionary Fundraising For Nonprofits

David Oaks

Fundraisers chase money. Visionaries attract it. Learn how to say thank you and tell stories all the way to the bank! Visionary fundraising that will release the storytelling visionary in you. read less
BusinessBusiness
Non-ProfitNon-Profit

Episodes

You Are NOT A News Reporter: You Are a Nonprofit Storyteller
Aug 11 2024
You Are NOT A News Reporter: You Are a Nonprofit Storyteller
As a fundraising consultant, I’ve encountered countless nonprofits who believe they’re telling compelling stories about their work. But when I look at their websites and social media feeds, I’m often left wondering: Where are the stories?Fundraisers think like news reporters when it comes to telling stories. But nothing could be further from the truth. You are not a news reporter, you are a nonprofit storyteller. There is a huge difference in news reporting and storytelling. What I usually find instead are reports. Updates about events. Statistics about groups served. While this information has its place, it’s not what drives donations. It’s not what connects with donors on an emotional level. It’s not storytelling.The Truth About Fundraising StoriesA true fundraising story isn’t about your organization or even about the collective impact you’re making. It’s about one person. One life. One struggle. One transformation.This focus on the individual isn’t just a preference—it’s a proven principle of effective fundraising. Yet it’s one that many organizations struggle to implement consistently.The focus on one, rule is a fundraising principle that’s proven, potent, and practically unbreakable.Get David's book Visionary Fundraising at Amazon.Get a digital copy of David's book: Visionary Fundraising today CLICK HERESpecial price $5.00You can connect with David at www.davidoaks.net InstagramLinkedIn
First Things & Fundraising
May 26 2024
First Things & Fundraising
When we fail to recognize and celebrate “firsts,” we miss powerful opportunities to strengthen our relationships, build momentum, and create a positive, thriving culture.In families, celebrating firsts – from a baby’s first steps to a teenager’s first job – helps to create a strong sense of unity, pride, and mutual support. By acknowledging these milestones, we show our loved ones that we are paying attention, and that we are invested in their growth and success. This builds trust, strengthens bonds, and fosters a family culture of encouragement and celebration.In the business world, recognizing firsts is equally crucial. When a team member lands their first client, closes their first deal, or completes their first project, it’s a chance to boost morale, build confidence, and reinforce the behaviors and values that drive success. By celebrating these achievements, leaders demonstrate that they value their employees’ contributions and are committed to their professional development. This, in turn, fuels engagement, loyalty, and a positive company culture.On a societal level, marking firsts – from groundbreaking inventions to historic civil rights victories – helps to shape our collective narrative and propel us forward. These milestones remind us of our capacity for innovation, progress, and overcoming challenges. They inspire us to dream bigger, to push beyond our perceived limits, and to work towards a better future. When we neglect to celebrate these firsts, we risk losing sight of our shared accomplishments and the power of our collective potential.Get David's book Visionary Fundraising at Amazon.Get a digital copy of David's book: Visionary Fundraising today CLICK HERESpecial price $5.00You can connect with David at www.davidoaks.net InstagramLinkedIn