Its been awhile since I’ve updated the content on my website and that’s because I’ve been busy with the Fundraising Management course at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) formerly Ryerson. I am almost through all of the courses that have ranged from introduction to fundraising to the brain killer data analytics that challenged my Excel skills and humbled me knowing full well after this certificate program, I’ll be signing up for an Excel course or two.
I thought a great way to pass along what I’m learning in this program is to post some of the more interesting questions that come up in our readings. The course I’m currently taking is Fundraising Strategies & Practices and the first module in the course is about developing a personal philosophy of philanthropy – in short the “why we do what we do” when it comes to fundraising development.
In the assigned readings in the module a question came up of “what is a culture of philanthropy and how does it relate to your personal philosophy of fundraising?”
A culture of philanthropy refers to the organizations environment where generosity and giving are deeply ingrained values and incorporated into their mission statement and vision. It really goes beyond fundraising for a cause; it encompasses the entire non profit / charities purpose, attitude and behaviours towards philanthropy and charitable giving. The entire organization from senior leadership to the staff, volunteers and those who receive the benefits the fundraising, needs to understand and embrace the importance of philanthropy in order to achieve their mission and goals.
Your own personal philosophy of fundraising – or your why – are your guiding principles about how fundraising should be approached. When you are talking with potential donors, whether they are individual or corporate, you are telling a story to them as to why you are doing what you are doing and supporting the mission of your organization. The reasons are influenced by various factors including your personal values and experiences in life and the story is letting the donor know how they relate to the organizations culture and its relationship with donors.
A positive culture of philanthropy has a close relationship with your personal philosophy of fundraising which is why it needs to match with the organization you are supporting and advocating for. Both you and your charity / non profit must believe in building genuine relationships with donors, effectively steward the gifts and ensure transparency and accountability. Fundraising can not be seen as a transactional activity, but as a means of making and nurturing meaningful connections between donors and your organization based on your shared values and goals.
