Here are 4 last-minute “little” ways to thank your donors this Thanksgiving—plus, 8 free images to use across your nonprofit’s social channels. Continue reading [FREE IMAGES] Last-Minute Ways to Thank Your Donors This Thanksgiving
[FREE IMAGES] 6 Creative Ways to Thank Donors on National Philanthropy Day
Not sure how to best steward your supporters this National Philanthropy Day? We’re here to help with 6 ideas for connecting with your donors—plus, 8 free images to use across your social platformsContinue reading [FREE IMAGES] 6 Creative Ways to Thank Donors on National Philanthropy Day
How to Make the Case for Planned Giving: 3 Fundraising Truths
Planned giving is top of mind for many nonprofits this year, and for good reason. Take a look at these three fundraising facts that help make the case for planned giving. Continue reading How to Make the Case for Planned Giving: 3 Fundraising Truths
Why You Should ‘Get Bored’ With Your Fundraising
Here’s a simple way to think about fundraising from the fundraiser’s perspective: Get bored. My favorite example of this from a client was a $75,000 CGA gift from a donor who received messaging for three years before committing. They were the right person getting the right message and the donor decided when it was the right time. What does “boredom” sound like for planned giving fundraisers? Find out here: Continue reading Why You Should ‘Get Bored’ With Your Fundraising
5 of the Best Ways to Make Your Holiday Donor Outreach Magical This Year
Thirty percent of all annual giving occurs in December with 10% of that total happening within the last three days of the year, according to Nonprofits Source. Is your nonprofit ready for the holiday season? Here are 5 tips for magical donor outreach this holiday season. Continue reading 5 of the Best Ways to Make Your Holiday Donor Outreach Magical This Year
Why I Care About Estate Planning (and Why You Should, Too)
During National Estate Planning Awareness Week—in the midst of a year like no other—it’s important to remember the people behind the plans (or lack thereof). Donors are on a journey, and when we do our job well, we meet them where they are and help equip them for the road ahead. Thanks for the important work you do—for families, philanthropy and our shared future. Continue reading Why I Care About Estate Planning (and Why You Should, Too)
Advice From 2 Nonprofits: How to Maximize 2020 Year-end Giving
While most year-end giving campaigns are in place already, 2020 has felt like a year of firsts and flexibility. That’s why we’re checking in with other planned giving professionals about their year-end giving plans and perspectives—what’s different, what’s new and how they’re moving ahead. Thanks to Cris Lutz, Senior Director of Gift Planning at The Huntington, and Debra Kathman, Director, Gift Planning, at World Wildlife Fund, for sharing their thoughts with us today. Continue reading Advice From 2 Nonprofits: How to Maximize 2020 Year-end Giving
How to Make the Most Out of Estate Planning Awareness Week
Before the pandemic, it was estimated that more than two-thirds of Americans (68%) did not have a will. In September of this year, interest in creating a will was the highest it has ever been according to Google Trends. Find out how your nonprofit can make the most out of National Estate Planning Awareness Week this year with pointers from our pro, Sr. Gift Planning Consultant, Lynn Gaumer, J.D. Continue reading How to Make the Most Out of Estate Planning Awareness Week
How to Select the Right Audience for Your Planned Giving Marketing
What aspect of your marketing mix can often go quietly overlooked, but actually makes the most difference where it counts? You guessed it: Audience selection. So, if you’re wondering why your results aren’t what you’d like them to be, start with your list. Today I’ll be sharing why, where and how to find the right audience. Plus, level up your list with my 3 pro tips below. Continue reading How to Select the Right Audience for Your Planned Giving Marketing
Focus On These 7 Things for Giving Tuesday Success
In 2019, Giving Tuesday raised $511 million online alone, and a total of $1.97 billion with offline donations—making it a monumental day for philanthropy, and for nonprofits. No matter what your position (or department), Giving Tuesday fundraising can be vital for programs and requires all hands on deck. The big day isn’t far away, so let’s dive right in to these 7 Giving Tuesday strategies that will help ensure campaign success. Continue reading Focus On These 7 Things for Giving Tuesday Success
Donor Advised Funds: Time to Promote Those Rainy-Day Funds
Across the country, donor advised fund administrators are seeing unprecedented levels of grant recommendations. If you haven’t started asking for gifts from donor advised funds, you need to implement a marketing strategy ASAP. Not sure where to start? Here are five next steps. Continue reading Donor Advised Funds: Time to Promote Those Rainy-Day Funds
3 Free Fundraising Webinars You Need to Watch
No matter what school looks like this year, the end of summer break means a renewed focus on learning—not only for the kiddos in our lives, but for us too. Continued learning helps us all develop new skills and stay at the top of our game. Whether these webinars are new to you or you just need a refresher, check them out as you’re designing your own never-stop-improving e-learning curriculum. Continue reading 3 Free Fundraising Webinars You Need to Watch
Prospects Lost? Give Them a Road Map to the Gift
Going from point A (introductions) to point B (gift finalization) is not an aimless pursuit; follow the most direct route that gets all of you to the final mutual and rewarding destination. Here are 5 ways to stay on course. Continue reading Prospects Lost? Give Them a Road Map to the Gift
The Indisputable Power of Video
Almost 3/4ths of Americans use YouTube, according to Pew Research. Video is powerful marketing. Are you taking advantage of video to tell your nonprofit’s story? Continue reading The Indisputable Power of Video
7 of the Most Frequently Asked Questions on Social Media for Nonprofits
As a planned giving marketing company, we field a lot of questions about how nonprofits can utilize social and how planned giving can fit into that social strategy—especially these days. Knowing that there are a lot of questions circling around the use of social in today’s environment, Stelter’s Marketing Communications Specialist, Aimee Menhusen, invited me and Stelter’s Creative Director and Marketing Director, Zach Christensen, to a little Zoom Q&A on social media best practices. We put our heads together to come up with this list of FAQs to share. Enjoy! Continue reading 7 of the Most Frequently Asked Questions on Social Media for Nonprofits
How to Design the Perfect Marketing Strategy
Kathryn W. Miree, President of Kathryn W. Miree & Associates, Inc., recently presented “Designing the Perfect Marketing Strategy for Your Planned Giving Program” as part of Stelter’s monthly webinar series. It’s a timely webinar, filled with practical tips for refining or creating your planned giving marketing plans. Kathryn covers audience segmentation and messaging, as well as the importance of integrating planned giving into an overall development communications plan. The webinar has many valuable takeaways, and today I’m excited to share a few of my favorites. Continue reading How to Design the Perfect Marketing Strategy
Engaging Donors During Quarantine: Tips for Successful Marketing & Messaging
How can your nonprofit continue to deliver content that sparks a feeling of connection, while still practicing social distancing for months on end? Before we dig into different strategies for quarantine marketing success, let’s start with the importance of planned giving during a crisis. Continue reading Engaging Donors During Quarantine: Tips for Successful Marketing & Messaging
FREE! CARES Act Video Tutorial for Your Donors
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act shifted the way donors can support charities in 2020. The changes are unprecedented…and so is the confusion around it. Here’s a new way to explain the law: This free video, featuring attorney Lynn Gaumer, who has covered the charitable sector for 25+ years, is yours to use across your web and digital platforms.Continue reading FREE! CARES Act Video Tutorial for Your Donors
How to Stand Out in All That Email
Donors opened 17% more messages from nonprofits in March 2020 than they did last March, according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy. Email activity is up. Inbox volume is down. This presents space to meaningfully talk with your planned giving donors through email. Here are 5 tips to stand out from the inbox crowd. Continue reading How to Stand Out in All That Email
How to Get Real With Donors in This Virtual Age
Much like the plastic see-through barriers at store checkouts these days, virtual interactions with donors and prospects have added a new, sometimes foreign layer to the process. Can we see past it? Absolutely. Find out how to build a deeper connection with your supporters, virtually. Continue reading How to Get Real With Donors in This Virtual Age
Giving USA 2020: Inside the Numbers and a Look Ahead
Giving USA released its 2020 annual report last week, but it just felt, well, different. Perhaps you may even feel that it is irrelevant. So much has changed in the first six months of 2020. Let’s take a brief look into the numbers and, more importantly, let’s look ahead to see how Americans are responding and giving this year. Continue reading Giving USA 2020: Inside the Numbers and a Look Ahead
3 Critical Factors Impacting Donor Mindset Today
The only constant is change. -Heraclitus I think we can all agree that this sentiment has never rung more true than it does today. Whether it’s change we plan for or change we don’t plan for, change is the only constant. The COVID-19 pandemic, corresponding economic impact and the sweeping national reflection on racial inequality haveContinue reading 3 Critical Factors Impacting Donor Mindset Today
[FREE DOWNLOAD] Two-Life CGA Suggested Maximum Rate Schedules Are Here
The American Council on Gift Annuities rates committee has revealed a new schedule of suggested maximum two-life charitable gift annuity (CGA) rates for gifts established on or after July 1, 2020. The new two-life rates are 0.3% to 0.5% lower than the current rates. Download our sample donor letter to reach out to those who may be interested in making a gift before July 1 to take advantage of the current rates. Continue reading [FREE DOWNLOAD] Two-Life CGA Suggested Maximum Rate Schedules Are Here
5 Storytelling Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Stories are how we share our culture, pass down our traditions and influence others. We are literally hardwired for storytelling. Perfect for fundraising, right? But if the formula is so simple—character + conflict + resourcefulness = resolution—then why don’t more stories resonate? Here are five mistakes that might be in the way. Continue reading 5 Storytelling Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
[FREE DOWNLOAD] Planned Giving Terms Your Team Should Know…Plus a Little Alphabet Soup
We get back to the fundamentals today. A special thanks to Stelter’s Senior Gift Planning Consultant, Lynn M. Gaumer, J.D., for offering her insights about planned giving terms every development professional should know. Continue reading [FREE DOWNLOAD] Planned Giving Terms Your Team Should Know…Plus a Little Alphabet Soup
Breaking News: ACGA Releases New Suggested Maximum Single-Life Rate Schedules [FREE DOWNLOAD]
The American Council on Gift Annuities rates committee has revealed a new schedule of suggested maximum single-life charitable gift annuity (CGA) rates for gifts established on or after July 1, 2020. Check out our chart of the new rates and download our sample donor letter to reach out to those who may be interested in making a gift before July 1 to take advantage of the current rates. Continue reading Breaking News: ACGA Releases New Suggested Maximum Single-Life Rate Schedules [FREE DOWNLOAD]
With a Pandemic Raging and Rates Dropping, Nobody Expected This Jaw-Dropping Windfall
Find out how our friends at Loma Linda University turned lemons into lemonade. Learn more about their recent mailing that ultimately led to $7.9 million in planned giving conversations. Continue reading With a Pandemic Raging and Rates Dropping, Nobody Expected This Jaw-Dropping Windfall
Stelter Planned Giving Pulse Survey #2: 3 Uplifting Discoveries That Made Us Smile
Since March, The Stelter Company has been polling nonprofits across the country that have established planned giving programs to learn how the pandemic is affecting their efforts. Last week, we released our Planned Giving Pulse Survey #2, which captures the latest impact on nonprofit marketing programs, job stability and planned giving budgets nationwide. The results are both inspiring and sobering. Continue reading Stelter Planned Giving Pulse Survey #2: 3 Uplifting Discoveries That Made Us Smile
A Short-Term Guide for Marketing Planned Giving: A plan for the next 90 days
What’s the message now that the news cycle is stuck on repeat, you still don’t understand your kids’ 5th-grade math homework and nobody can bring themselves to empty the dishwasher? What now? We’ve got a plan. Continue reading A Short-Term Guide for Marketing Planned Giving: A plan for the next 90 days
[FREE DOWNLOAD] How to Let Your Donors Know About the New Charitable Gift Annuity Rates
Stelter’s Senior Gift Planning Consultant, Lynn Gaumer, J.D., is back to share an update on the new schedule of CGA rates. We recommend you reach out now to your donors who may be interested in making a gift before July 1 to take advantage of the current rates. To assist you with this, we are providing a letter that you can customize and use for your donor communications. Continue reading [FREE DOWNLOAD] How to Let Your Donors Know About the New Charitable Gift Annuity Rates
How to Have the Best Video Meetings + Free Zoom Backgrounds
How can we make the most—and get the most—from our video meetings? Run your video meetings like a pro with these best practices. Plus, free zoom backgrounds you can use for your next meeting! Continue reading How to Have the Best Video Meetings + Free Zoom Backgrounds
CGA Program Best Practices You Need to Know: A Review of the ACGA/CGP CGA Survey
A new survey shares best practices that all charities can follow for charitable gift annuity programs. This survey—the first of its kind—was conducted jointly by the American Council on Gift Annuities (ACGA) and the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners (CGP). Here to breakdown three main takeaways from the survey is Lynn Gaumer, J.D., Stelter’s Sr. Gift Planning Consultant. Continue reading CGA Program Best Practices You Need to Know: A Review of the ACGA/CGP CGA Survey
Key Takeaways From the First-Ever Virtual ACGA Conference
Last week, many fundraisers from across the country gathered in the comfort of their own homes and logged in to the first virtual ACGA Conference. The COVID-19 pandemic was top of mind and a common thread in many presentations. Speakers looked to past pandemics and economic downturns for guidance on what charitable giving will look like this year, addressed current concerns and looked to the future. Here are a few key takeaways from Stelter’s Executive Vice President Jeremy Stelter and Senior Gift Planning Consultant Lynn Gaumer, J.D. Continue reading Key Takeaways From the First-Ever Virtual ACGA Conference
Legacy Challenges in the Time of COVID-19: What Should You Do?
Should you or should you not continue—or start—your Legacy Challenge? I’d argue yes…if it’s positioned the right way. Find out how to effectively frame Legacy Challenges today, and the 3 key benefits these challenges can offer your donors and your nonprofit. Continue reading Legacy Challenges in the Time of COVID-19: What Should You Do?
How to Fine Tune Your Marketing for Relevance During Uncertain Times
Words matter, especially in marketing—and especially right now. Resonate with more donors with the help of repurposing. Find out how to repurpose and fine tune your marketing during uncertain times. Continue reading How to Fine Tune Your Marketing for Relevance During Uncertain Times
3 Must-Haves for Stewarding Donors Successfully
Our partnership with nearly 1,500 nonprofits involves helping them educate donors about planned giving and offering donors the opportunity to act on making a planned gift easily. And while it is extremely important to stay top-of-mind with your donors during this time, we know that in the current environment this messaging needs to change. You must pivot to a message of stewardship. Reviewing stewardship campaigns Stelter has produced for our clients over the past year, there are three things in common that helped lead to their success. Continue reading 3 Must-Haves for Stewarding Donors Successfully
3 Tips on How to Engage Donors When Face-to-Face Isn’t Possible
Face-to-face donor meetings are on an indefinite hold—which means major and planned gift officers across the country are finding themselves grounded from the thing they love to do most. So where do you go from here, to continue to engage your portfolio, extend your donor discovery or even identify new individuals for cultivation? Continue reading 3 Tips on How to Engage Donors When Face-to-Face Isn’t Possible
3 Themes From the First-Ever AFP ICON VIRTUAL Conference
With our world upside down and events all around us being canceled, new opportunities to share and connect are emerging. Earlier this week, nearly 1,000 fundraisers gathered around their own respective viewing devices for the first-ever AFP ICON VIRTUAL Conference—including Danny Herzberg, Stelter Regional Account Representative. I sat down with Danny to hear his biggest takeaways from the conference. Continue reading 3 Themes From the First-Ever AFP ICON VIRTUAL Conference
Why Now Is the Right Time to Steward Your Donors
Right now, and over these next few months, your priority isn’t stewarding gifts. It’s stewarding people. Your people—donors, volunteers, board members and those who’ve shown they care about you and what you do—are in need of connection and community. Stay relevant and purposeful with these stewardship suggestions: Continue reading Why Now Is the Right Time to Steward Your Donors
[FREE DOWNLOAD] Let Your Donors Know About the New Tax Incentives
The president has signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This is designed to help taxpayers, businesses and nonprofits facing economic hardship in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and economic downturn. Here are several key provisions of the CARES Act that relate to the nonprofit sector: Continue reading [FREE DOWNLOAD] Let Your Donors Know About the New Tax Incentives
Lessons From the Coronavirus War Room
On March 12, we stopped the Stelter presses (the literal print presses as well as the email queue) and attacked the virus with the weapons we had on hand—creativity and thoughtfulness. (Plus our guts, we always trust our guts.) As we dug in, we spotted words, images and calls to action that had changed meaning. Here’s what we found. Continue reading Lessons From the Coronavirus War Room
How to Make the Most of Your Social Distancing Time: Planning & Education
Time by ourselves can be powerful. Take advantage of it by planning and prioritizing. This isn’t time to put plans on hold. It’s time to be bold … Continue reading How to Make the Most of Your Social Distancing Time: Planning & Education
Marketing in the Time of Coronavirus
We’re here to calm your nerves and remind you of the simple steps to take when the future feels uncomfortably gray. Here are 3 mantras for marketing planned giving right now. Continue reading Marketing in the Time of Coronavirus
5 Themes From the ANA DC Nonprofit Conference
Last week in D.C., nonprofit fundraisers came together to discuss the latest trends, explore issues and share insights at the ANA DC Nonprofit Conference. Here are 5 key themes to help you get caught up. Continue reading 5 Themes From the ANA DC Nonprofit Conference
Why Planned Giving Isn’t Just About Fundraising
Think beyond the annual gala with these ideas to enhance your nonprofit’s lifestyle brand. Continue reading Why Planned Giving Isn’t Just About Fundraising
The 8 Essential Elements of a Gift Acceptance Policy
Gifts of complex or high-risk assets can be difficult for both the donor and the nonprofit to navigate—especially without any guidance. A solid gift acceptance policy can help. Continue reading The 8 Essential Elements of a Gift Acceptance Policy
How to Write Planned Giving Materials That Engage Your Donors
Let’s be honest: The likelihood of directly receiving a planned gift because of what you write, in a marketing solicitation for example, no matter how eloquently presented, is, well, low. “Huh?” you might be asking yourself. “Then why am I reading this?!” Stay with me. Continue reading How to Write Planned Giving Materials That Engage Your Donors
[FREE WHITE PAPER] Women & Giving: A Marketing Roadmap
The Stelter Company’s most recent research, Women & Giving: A Marketing Roadmap, showcases the differences that surface between men and women—differences related to giving, finances and self-image. I’m here today to share some findings that can help your nonprofit’s planned giving marketing program. Continue reading [FREE WHITE PAPER] Women & Giving: A Marketing Roadmap
[FREE DOWNLOADS] The SECURE Act: How Did It Change Charitable Giving?
We’ve received a lot of questions on the new SECURE Act. Here’s a summary of what changed, what stayed the same, what it means and what you can offer your donors. Continue reading [FREE DOWNLOADS] The SECURE Act: How Did It Change Charitable Giving?
3 of the Biggest Planned Giving Marketing Trends of 2020
With you in mind, we’ve put together a shortlist of trends to consider in your 2020 planned giving marketing program. Continue reading 3 of the Biggest Planned Giving Marketing Trends of 2020
Top 3 Webinars of 2019… and an Exclusive Look at Our 2020 Lineup!
While we’ve already rung in the new year, let’s countdown one more time. Here are our most popular webinars of 2019 AND an exclusive sneak peek of our 2020 Webinar Series. Continue reading Top 3 Webinars of 2019… and an Exclusive Look at Our 2020 Lineup!
Best of 2019
For me, the year 2020 represents clear vision. In that spirit, I’ve compiled a list of the blogs you all loved most in 2019. Perhaps these ideas can help inform your 2020 marketing plans, and make it the best year yet. Continue reading Best of 2019
What Motivates Mature Donors? A Conversation With My 74-Year-Old Dad
In her continuing series, we welcome special guest, Stelter Editorial Director, Katie Parker. This week, we hear from Katie’s dad, 74, about his thoughts on planned giving marketing packages. Here are 10 tidbits, straight from Katie’s Dad. Continue reading What Motivates Mature Donors? A Conversation With My 74-Year-Old Dad
What to Do When a Donor Wants to Give Real Estate
Do you want to master the art of accepting real estate gifts? Discover the two Ps of real estate donations and unlock your nonprofit’s full fundraising potential. Continue reading What to Do When a Donor Wants to Give Real Estate
[FREE DOWNLOAD] How to Let Your Donors Know About the New Charitable Gift Annuity Rates
The American Council on Gift Annuities recently revealed a new schedule of suggested maximum gift annuity rates for gifts established on or after Jan. 1, 2020. Score your free donor letter and customize it for your nonprofit’s CGA communications. Continue reading [FREE DOWNLOAD] How to Let Your Donors Know About the New Charitable Gift Annuity Rates
Special Update: 4 Newsworthy Items in Charitable Giving Right Now
Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Catch up on the latest charitable giving news here.Continue reading Special Update: 4 Newsworthy Items in Charitable Giving Right Now
10 Ways to Promote Planned Giving During the Holidays
Are you wondering how your nonprofit can promote planned giving this holiday season? Check out our Holiday Marketing Checklist for 10 tips to promote legacy gifts during the holidays. Continue reading 10 Ways to Promote Planned Giving During the Holidays
[FREE IMAGES] How to Celebrate National Philanthropy Day
No matter how busy your nonprofit is this time of year, don’t miss out on the opportunity to thank your donors while spreading awareness for your cause this National Philanthropy Day. Snag your free social images here. Continue reading [FREE IMAGES] How to Celebrate National Philanthropy Day
Effective Storytelling: 4 Ways to Get an Impact Story
Stories invite people to listen. Better yet, impact stories invite people to feel. Here are four ways to start building your nonprofit’s impact story reserve. Continue reading Effective Storytelling: 4 Ways to Get an Impact Story
Planned Giving Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
Take the scare out of planned giving. Here’s how to discuss 5 common donor hesitations and make planned giving a treat to complete. Continue reading Planned Giving Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
4 Key Takeaways from CGP 2019–In a Nutshell: Planned Giving Is Alive and Well!
Another amazing national conference has come and gone, but the connections and learnings will impact gift planners and their work long after the last person left New Orleans. Continue reading 4 Key Takeaways from CGP 2019–In a Nutshell: Planned Giving Is Alive and Well!
[INFOGRAPHIC] Ask Them for Their Memories, Not Their Money
Allow the donor to share their connection with you before you link your nonprofit’s mission to them. By enjoying storytime first, you can make a more educated, meaningful ask. Discover ten ways to open a conversation by listening. Continue reading [INFOGRAPHIC] Ask Them for Their Memories, Not Their Money
The 1 Mistake (You Can Avoid) That Can Kill a Planned Gift Prospect
Recently, I read a Q&A with Glenn Kelman, CEO of Redfin, in Delta’s Sky magazine. (Work travels.) Something he said stuck with me. Continue reading The 1 Mistake (You Can Avoid) That Can Kill a Planned Gift Prospect
Estate Planning Awareness: Help Your Donors Plan Their Legacy
It is estimated that over half of Americans (56 percent) do not have an up-to-date estate plan. In order to raise awareness about the importance of estate planning, Congress declared the third week of October as National Estate Planning Awareness Week. Continue reading Estate Planning Awareness: Help Your Donors Plan Their Legacy
What Are You Doing to Connect with Your Self-Directed Donor?
How long have you been in planned giving? Think back, say 15-20 years, and you may remember taking a more traditional path to cultivating prospects’ and donor’s planned gifts. Continue reading What Are You Doing to Connect with Your Self-Directed Donor?
Get Personal: Make Your PG Marketing More Creative—and Impactful
No ifs, whens or buts about it. Personalization is the now—not the future—of planned giving marketing. Continue reading Get Personal: Make Your PG Marketing More Creative—and Impactful
Read These: The Best Quotes to Prepare You for International Day of Charity
September 5 is International Day of Charity, designated by the United Nations General Assembly as a day to shine a light on charity-related activities worldwide. On this day, individuals, nonprofits and volunteer organizations raise awareness, organize special events and build support for charitable works. Continue reading Read These: The Best Quotes to Prepare You for International Day of Charity
5 Things Successful Planned Giving Campaigns Have in Common
The focus of this blog is not only to confirm ‘best practices’ as it relates to planned giving inclusion in campaigns, but also expand your thinking around how campaigns can enhance your planned giving outreach.Continue reading 5 Things Successful Planned Giving Campaigns Have in Common
[FREE IMAGES] Celebrate National Nonprofit Day With Us
This Saturday, August 17, is National Nonprofit Day—a day set aside to recognize the positive impact nonprofits like yours have on communities and the world. Continue reading [FREE IMAGES] Celebrate National Nonprofit Day With Us
How Do You Know You’re Good at Planned Giving?
Think you’re good at what you do? Some days perhaps even great? While other days…leave you questioning.
Then you know that no two days are alike in planned giving. The highs, the lows, the in-between’s and the not knowing. You’ve been through them all, sometimes within minutes.Continue reading How Do You Know You’re Good at Planned Giving?
Are Your Marketing and Development Teams on the Same Page?
Some shops talk, and some don’t. Here are 5 sure-fire ways to improve your internal communication and optimize your planned giving marketing. Continue reading Are Your Marketing and Development Teams on the Same Page?
7 Ideas Nabbed from the Bridge Conference
Fundraisers, marketers and nonprofit professionals converged in Washington, D.C. last week…and for once it wasn’t to lobby. The Bridge Conference was an educational gathering with tracks on content marketing, peer-to-peer fundraising, stewardship, acquisition and more. Today I’m here to share the ideas that sparked for me. Continue reading 7 Ideas Nabbed from the Bridge Conference
Keeping Donors Happy When Your Development Team Is in Transition
With the average turnover rate for fundraisers a mere 18 months, there’s little doubt your development team will go through transition. What will you do when, not if, a staff member leaves? Here’s some advice from the pros. Continue reading Keeping Donors Happy When Your Development Team Is in Transition
How to Write Donor Stories That Make Prospects Take Action
Craft and tell a more powerful planned giving story with these 5 Stelter elements of storytelling. Continue reading How to Write Donor Stories That Make Prospects Take Action
How to Get Your Emails Into Your Donor’s Inbox
Staying out of the spam folder can be a challenge. With 14.5 billion spam messages sent per day globally, email service providers are working harder than ever to have emails arrive in inboxes. Discover how to increase your email deliverability to your donors. Continue reading How to Get Your Emails Into Your Donor’s Inbox
The Truth About Direct Mail and Digital Marketing
Think direct mail and digital, not direct mail or digital. Here are 5 tips to strengthen your multichannel marketing efforts for planned giving. Continue reading The Truth About Direct Mail and Digital Marketing
How to Make Your Donor Surveys More Successful
Surveys shed light on what donors may need to move the needle from a one-time or annual gift to a legacy or planned gift. Here are 5 tips to improve your planned giving donor surveys. Continue reading How to Make Your Donor Surveys More Successful
The Key to More Leads? Create an Offer Stable
You need a variety of at-your-fingertip offers to ensure that you spend your time nurturing donors at the point of contact rather than scrambling for material when you have their ear. This is your offer stable. Here are two ways to craft it. Continue reading The Key to More Leads? Create an Offer Stable
How Often Should Your Nonprofit Post on Social Media?
There is no magic number. However, there are some indicators of what might work best for your nonprofit’s social media strategy. Ask yourself these 3 questions to find out your optimal posting schedule. Continue reading How Often Should Your Nonprofit Post on Social Media?
How to Get Your Donors Where You Want Them to Go
Here is your shortcut guide to making the most out of your marketing drivers and destinations. Continue reading How to Get Your Donors Where You Want Them to Go
Donor-Centered Appeals (Or, How to Get Out of Your Own Way)
Are you getting in your own way of a gift opportunity? Here are 4 tips to consider when you’re prepping your next fundraising appeal. Continue reading Donor-Centered Appeals (Or, How to Get Out of Your Own Way)
[FREE IMAGES] How to Make the Most of National Volunteer Month
National Volunteer Month is the perfect opportunity to thank your nonprofit’s volunteers. Here are 3 ways to celebrate them this April. Continue reading [FREE IMAGES] How to Make the Most of National Volunteer Month
DIY Online Wills: Technology Is Putting Estate Planning Tools in the Hands of Your Donors
We all know that a longstanding challenge for planned giving professionals has been to inspire donors to take action—but could estate planning tools help? Continue reading DIY Online Wills: Technology Is Putting Estate Planning Tools in the Hands of Your Donors
What You Need To Know Now to Promote, Receive and Acknowledge a DAF Gift
Today we welcome back a special guest on the blog: Stelter Senior Technical Consultant, Lynn Gaumer, J.D. Lynn returns to share her insights on promoting, receiving and acknowledging donor advised fund gifts. Donor advised funds date back to the Great Depression, yet they were not actively promoted until the early 1990s when Fidelity established FidelityContinue reading What You Need To Know Now to Promote, Receive and Acknowledge a DAF Gift
How to Cultivate Donor Loyalty: 5 Marketing Tips
A friend of mine, a retired hospice-facility fundraiser, recently made a sizable gift to a local women’s shelter. But she never received an acknowledgment or thank you. She was even told, “No thanks, we’ve got it covered,” when she volunteered to write their thank you notes. Needless to say, she’s hesitant to go any furtherContinue reading How to Cultivate Donor Loyalty: 5 Marketing Tips
What Kind of Donor Journey Are You Delivering?
Earlier this year, I shared the primary three stages of the donor journey. Today, I’m back with the final two stages. As you may recall, the donor’s journey starts off similarly to the buyer’s journey—but can conclude with two additional destinations: donation and believer. Your nonprofit’s ultimate goal is to help your donors reach theContinue reading What Kind of Donor Journey Are You Delivering?
The 5 Questions You MUST Answer in Your Copy
In her continuing series, we welcome special guest, Stelter Editorial Director, Katie Parker. Marketing is piquing interest, evoking emotion, triggering response. It’s about making something that you do relevant to them (better yet, it’s listening to their needs and answering them with your product). At the core of marketing your service is compelling copy. Here areContinue reading The 5 Questions You MUST Answer in Your Copy
Is the Donor Pyramid a Thing of the Past?
The simple answer is yes. If you haven’t heard already, the donor pyramid that many of us have come to know, has changed—and perhaps is even dead. (R.I.P.) Now, if that’s the case, what kind of journey are donors experiencing today? And, more importantly, how do we engage them? First, let’s cover why the donorContinue reading Is the Donor Pyramid a Thing of the Past?
How to Make Them Care: Inspire Donors Through Storytelling
With every marketing piece that we encounter—an email on our phone, an envelope in our mailbox, a post on our Facebook wall—we ask, Is this worth my time? The fact that you’re reading these words implies that you likely did all the following: Opened an email or stumbled upon a social media post from TheContinue reading How to Make Them Care: Inspire Donors Through Storytelling
How to Plant the Seed to Create a Legacy
Today we welcome a special guest author to the blog: Cathy R. Sheffield, CAP®, CFRE, CSPG, FCEP, ThinkGiving President and Thompson & Associates Vice President. Cathy is here to share 10 things that you can do right now to start creating your legacy. Cathy is a fundraising executive with 25-years experience, specializing in major gifts and giftContinue reading How to Plant the Seed to Create a Legacy
[FREE DOWNLOAD] Don’t Leave Your Planned Giving Program to Luck
Today we welcome back a special guest on the blog: Stelter Senior Technical Consultant, Lynn Gaumer, J.D. Lynn returns to share her insights on the importance of having a plan for your planned giving marketing program—and not just leaving it to luck. “It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon.” It’s a common phrase used dailyContinue reading [FREE DOWNLOAD] Don’t Leave Your Planned Giving Program to Luck
Avoid These! 10 Mistakes in Calls to Action
In her continuing series, we welcome special guest, Stelter Editorial Director, Katie Parker. The classic call to action is “Buy Now!”. This slick phrase hits all the high notes: It’s urgent, clear, actionable and succinct. Every day your donors are bombarded by interruptive marketing and plenty of attempts to call their attention to a brand’s desiredContinue reading Avoid These! 10 Mistakes in Calls to Action
Top 3 Webinars of 2018
We are back. After a long holiday weekend, recharging with family and friends, I hope you are feeling ready to take on 2019.
Now, I could talk about how yet another year has come and gone all too quickly. I could talk about how much we’ve learned and how our industry has changed over the course of 2018, which is all important. But today, I’d rather show you […] Continue reading Top 3 Webinars of 2018
The 3 Things Your Donors Really Want
The season of giving and receiving is here. Instead of wrapped gifts and glad tidings, however, let’s reflect on the season in a way that speaks to our business. The reciprocal nature of giving and receiving with donors, of building relationships with them that last throughout every season and through the years. The Fundraising EffectivenessContinue reading The 3 Things Your Donors Really Want
Best of 2018
As each year new year approaches, I like to review the last 12 months: the successes, the learning opportunities and everything in between. Then, I try to determine a theme for that year. When reflecting on 2018, the word “change” comes to mind. Changes in the industry, from tax reforms to charitable gift annuity rates.Continue reading Best of 2018
[FREE IMAGES] Last-Minute Ways to Thank Your Donors
Hard to believe we’re two days away from Thanksgiving. Your office chatter, like ours, has probably temporarily turned from planned giving to potlucks. Whether you’re enjoying goodies or tying up plans for Giving Tuesday: Press pause and give thanks to those who support your nonprofit’s works through every season. We’re not talking anything big hereContinue reading [FREE IMAGES] Last-Minute Ways to Thank Your Donors
3 Ways to Thank Your Supporters on World Kindness Day
Have you heard? The kindness is catching, and it’s going global. Knowing you, my planned giving friends, you’re already committing random acts of kindness daily. It’s who you are and what you’re inclined to do, especially in the realm of nonprofit work. The good news is that we’re taking it to the streets: World KindnessContinue reading 3 Ways to Thank Your Supporters on World Kindness Day
Scary Truths About Planned Giving
Let’s face it, planned giving has a spooky side. As fundraisers, you may have your share of nonprofit horror stories. But being prepared, makes things a whole lot less scary. SCARY TRUTHS OF PLANNED GIVING Gift planning isn’t easy, and it can be confusing. Bequests, CGAs, DAFs—these acronyms can overwhelm your donors. That’s why you’reContinue reading Scary Truths About Planned Giving
How You Can Make the Most of Giving Tuesday
This year, Giving Tuesday lands on November 27. Is your calendar marked? More importantly, does your nonprofit have a plan in place? If you’re still in the “planning to plan” phase, don’t sweat. It’s never too late to put together a Giving Tuesday strategy. (That being said, it’s never too early to start organizing aContinue reading How You Can Make the Most of Giving Tuesday
Why You Need to Hit Your Donor’s Mailbox First Thing in 2019
Is mailing in December a nonprofit do or don’t? Traditionally, sending direct mail in December has been viewed as less-than-ideal in the nonprofit industry. The logic behind this was simple. Donors most likely just donated their year-end gifts—not to mention the added financial strain of the holidays. The assumption: No one wants to think aboutContinue reading Why You Need to Hit Your Donor’s Mailbox First Thing in 2019