Book Recommendation
If you are new to fundraising or intimidated by the thought of it, you may want to consider picking up a copy of Mega Gifts by Panas. I read the 1984 version so some of the content is a bit outdated. However, much of the same key principles apply today and I am sure the 2005 version is even better. Here are few quotes:
"People give to where there is the greatest emotional appeal and where they feel there is the most consequential opportunity for them to share"...."they do not give logically. Passion, rather than reason, rules".
"Donors do not give to critical needs. They give to bold and dramatic opportunities"...."it is quite clear. There is no such thing as a shortage of major donors. There is only a shortage of great ideas to raise money. A desperate need for vision and dreams"
"Securing a large gift is not the result of mechanical procedures and routinized presentations. It is the drama. The excitement. The Passion."
"After you truly understand the needs of the donor, and only after that, are you in a position to present precisely the proper campaign literature"
I can't do the book any justice in this short paragraph but I believe it is a must-read for every coach looking to sharpen their skills in fundraising.
