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Ask Bee Question
Question:
With over a million non-profits operating in the U.S. today, more and more foundations give to "pre-selected organizations," which makes it harder to expand your donor base. Is there any way around that stipulation of "pre-selected?" Do those types of foundations entertain inquiry letters?
Answer:
The short answer to your question is that there is no problem with developing a letter of inquiry or letter asking how you might become a “pre-selected organization”. For other more local or regional foundations the advice listed .....To read more or to ask your own question,
click here.
Top Gifts of the Week
$100 million pledge from George Soros to establish the Climate Policy Initiative to push for climate change. (The Chronicle of Philanthropy, October 30, 2009)
$50 million over six years from Pierre and Pam Omidyar to the Hawaii Community Foundation to launch several community initiatives as well as give continued support to the Omidyar Ohana Fund. (Reuters, October 27, 2009)
$50 million from the Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. Foundation to Boy Scouts of America for its National High Adventure Base that will be developed in Fayette and Raleigh counties. (Charleston Gazette, October 31, 2009)
Top News Stories of the Week
The IRA nonprofit tax exemption is due to expire at the end of 2009 unless an extension is made. In 2009 there are no required IRA minimum distributions for people over the age of 70 ½. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 allowed individuals over the age of 70 ½ to donate up to $100,000 per year from IRA’s to charities without paying taxes on the distributions. (North Bay Business Journal, October 26, 2009)
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Charitable giving to nonprofit healthcare organizations has faltered in the U.S. and Canada, according to a new report from the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy. Americans donated $8.6 billion for healthcare in 2008, which was an increase of $300 million from 2007 but showed only about half the growth rate seen from 2006 to 2007. Meanwhile, Canadians donated $1.07 billion in 2008, down from the $1.3 billion donated in 2007. (Philanthropy Journal, November 2, 2009)
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Nonprofit mergers have become more commonplace in response to the recent economic turmoil. The Bridgespan Group reported earlier this year that 20% of the 117 nonprofit executive directors surveyed said they would consider a merger to survive the economic downturn. Nonprofit leaders engaging in mergers must consider whether their groups match in terms of mission, values, approach and culture, says Peter Frumkin, director of the RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service. Some groups never overcome issues related to new leadership, layoffs and consolidating board members. (Austin American-Statesman, November 1, 2009)
Wonderful, practical guide that every professional will find valuable
""A ‘must read’ for fundraisers, regardless of their experience. Easy to read, well
written, and to the point, this book will become the manual for professionals and
volunteers in development." --Daniel T. Gura, vice president for development and
university relations, The University of Tampa. Order online by going here.
Case Study Central
Increased unrestricted operating dollars
FRI helped one national organization develop a branded fundraising system for its
local affiliates. As a result, participating affiliates raised 150% more money,
had greater board and volunteer involvement in their fundraising, and increased
their donor bases by an average of 25%.
Read More
Ask BEE’s advice produces a more than 50% increase in phonathon results
One University’s annual fund was growing but still small in size. Their Development
Associate sought advice on how to make a dramatic increased in dollars raised during
their phonathon. Based upon advice from Ask BEE, the development officer successful
developed a challenge gift strategy which resulted in an immediate increase in 50%
and could more than double the total dollars raised in the next three years. Read More