Blog » Center for Major Gifts

Nonprofit team hosting a bake sale event—great vibes, minimal revenue. A classic case of activity over strategy

Uncategorized

Cupcakes Won’t Pay the Bills

I suggest locking up sharp objects and keeping a bottle of Pepto nearby. This article might upset anyone who thinks fundraising is about cupcakes, gala selfies, and social media applause. If your strategy hinges on hashtags and hope, it’s time for a reality check. Because while your silent auction may generate warm fuzzies, it won’t fund your future. Strategic fundraising isn’t about activity—it’s about results. And spoiler alert: you can’t deposit likes.

Viken Mikaelian April 7, 2025 No Comments

Leader standing before stairs shaped like keyhole, symbolizing vision, growth, and unlocking potential.

Leadership

Six Key Lessons in Leadership: Building a Foundation for Lasting Impact

True leadership in fundraising isn’t about charisma or titles—it’s about clarity, consistency, and cultivating trust. The best leaders don’t micromanage; they set a vision, empower others, and hold themselves accountable. Fundraisers follow those who walk the talk. Leadership isn’t a flash of brilliance—it’s a daily commitment to authenticity and alignment. When leaders embody these values, they don’t just inspire gifts—they inspire loyalty, impact, and a culture that sustains long-term success.

Viken Mikaelian April 3, 2025 No Comments

Gold trophy on a dark background symbolizing success, high performance, and top achievement in fundraising.

Career Advancement

Why Top-Earning Major Gift Officers Master Planned Giving—And How You Can, Too

Top-earning major gift officers don’t ignore planned giving—they embrace it. Not because they have to, but because they know it gives them an edge most fundraisers miss. While others chase bake sales and annual upgrades, these professionals are building donor portfolios that stand the test of time. Mastering planned giving isn’t just smart—it’s strategic. It earns trust, opens bigger conversations, and positions you as the fundraiser leadership remembers. Want to rise? Start where the top performers do.

Viken Mikaelian March 31, 2025 No Comments

An image of computer research for donor research.

Fundraising

Why Prospect Research Is Crucial to Successful Gift Development

If your team isn’t using prospect research to drive gift development, you’re not just missing data—you’re missing direction, efficiency, and high-dollar opportunities. Prospect research helps you target the right donors with the right ask at the right time. Without it, your fundraising strategy is reactive at best—and blind at worst.

Edward Stephon March 27, 2025 No Comments

Fundraising

A Marriage Between Major and Planned Gifts

Combining major and planned gifts can optimize your fundraising efforts. They are immediate and planned gifts come from donors.

Stuart Sullivan March 26, 2025 No Comments

Smiling woman speaking on the phone in a bright office, expressing gratitude or excitement for agift made to her nonprofit.

Stewardship

Perfecting the Thank-You Call: How a Five-Minute Phone Chat Can Triple Donor Retention

A quick, heartfelt thank-you call can do more than express gratitude—it can dramatically boost donor retention and long-term giving. In fact, nonprofits that consistently call donors within 48 hours of a gift often see stronger loyalty, larger future gifts, and deeper emotional connections. This article explores why these five-minute phone chats are so effective, how to make them meaningful (not scripted), and how your organization can turn simple appreciation into a powerful fundraising strategy.

Joe Garecht March 22, 2025 No Comments