Each month, the Social Good Blog highlights news and resources on a specific topic. In September, we are discussing best practices in nonprofit philanthropy. Below are several resources for individuals determining how they can contribute to their favorite cause and for fundraising professionals looking to stay on top of the latest trends.
For Individuals
There are a seemingly endless number of causes that people can contribute to. As a result, the world of philanthropy can feel overwhelming. However, this doesn’t have to be the case, and the Bridgespan Group proves that with their Getting Started Resource Library. This site compiles articles that address topics such as whether an individual should donate publicly versus anonymously, or while living versus in perpetuity.
The University of Pennsylvania’s Center for High Impact Philanthropy provides guidance to philanthropists (both individuals and organizations) in search of the right funding opportunity by issue area, for example. The program’s executive director Kat Rosqueta also created a local TEDx Talk detailing how the average person can make the highest impact possible with their donations.
For Fundraisers
As the saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is particularly true with respect to converting an organization’s website visitors to donors. Blackbaud discusses how to avoid losing your audience in this recent podcast.
According to the 2015 Money for Good report, 49 percent of donors don’t know how nonprofits use their contributions. The spending habits and motivations of the average consumer are highlighted in this detailed guide to charitable giving.
Did you know that in August 2016 giving was up by 31.4 percent in comparison to the same time last year? Stay on top of the latest online giving trends each month with these easy-to-use interactive tools from The Chronicle of Philanthropy.
