We know that fundraisers want more opportunities to connect with peers at other organizations so they can do their jobs better, but with the demands of the job, it can be hard to find the time. I’m working hard to make sure the new weekly newsletter I’m writing helps fill that gap. My goal for Fundraising Update is to make it a must-read for savvy fundraisers — especially those of you (most of you) who have little time to spare. If you love our print magazine, think of our newsletter as a smart, internet-y companion all about fundraising.
I’ve been covering the world of nonprofits and social innovation for more than six years now. Some things haven’t changed: People devoted to mission-driven careers are endlessly inspiring, and fundraising remains hard. But the outside world is in a constant, messy state of flux. Everything from economic trends and public policy to technology and our personal values influence how nonprofits attract donations from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
With Fundraising Update, I want to help you navigate this complex landscape — and get real about the challenges of development. I share the best of my colleagues’ reporting on the latest fundraising news, research, and trends, while also bringing you the perspectives and wisdom of the peers you wish you had time to meet.
In August, we talked a lot about strategies and solutions to stem the epidemic of fundraiser turnover. I know that’s a perennial concern, so we’ll continue digging into that topic in the months to come. We’ll also talk about thorny ethical issues facing the field, strategies for building a more diverse talent pipeline, and ideas for reaching groups of donors who are often overlooked.
You can subscribe to Fundraising Update at philanthropy.com/newsletters, and I hope you’ll write me at eden.stiffman@philanthropy.com. If you’re a fundraiser, let me know what job issues keep you up at night. Tell me about your Monday morning routine to get organized for the week ahead, teachable moments from your first big “ask,” or your brilliant fundraising colleague we should spotlight. And toot your own organization’s horn if you’re experimenting with a fundraising technique that could be a model for others. I want to hear about it all.
— Eden Stiffman, Senior Editor