Getting Your Organization on Board with Fundraising: Weaving a Philanthropic Culture

We may be great at cultivating relationships with our donors but are we equally as great at building and nurturing a philanthropic culture top to bottom in our organizations? And if we are not focusing on this then why are we not? If organizational culture reflects the way an organization operates, and if the unique nature of non-profit organizations is a reliance on philanthropy to fulfill their mission, and if fund development is the engine that drives philanthropy – then why do so many organizations fail to understand the value of understanding how a 'philanthropic' (not fundraising!) culture is crucial to have woven throughout the organization? Why are we relegating ourselves into that dreadful 'silo' and not taking every possible step to increase philanthropic investment in our organization?

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this session, participants will:

• Understand both the differences and the synergies between fundraising and philanthropy.

• Have a new perspective on the relationship between fundraising and philanthropy that will change the way you engage others in your work.

• Be able to assess your own organization's culture and identify areas for improvement and practical tips and techniques to help you change it.

Target Audience:

All fundraisers who want to get themselves out of the silo, increase revenues and engage their entire organization. Executive Directors and Board Members will also benefit from this session.

About the Presenter:

Andrea McManus is President of The Development Group, a Canadian-based philanthropic consulting firm. She was the first Canadian to serve as Chair of the International Board of the AFP (2011-12) and is a passionate believer in, writer and speaker on the role fundraising plays in growing philanthropy worldwide.