It's About the... What?!?

What is a fundraisers job?

Well clearly, it's all about being really nice to people, right?  To talk about the important causes we're raising support for, and just let the money flow in?  Or maybe it's to throw elaborate parties, organizing great wine lists and memorable centre pieces.

No, sorry.  As fun as all that sounds, it's not enough.

A fundraiser has 2 roles, I believe.  Ultimately, the goal is to raise money in support of life-changing causes that matter.  Yes, this may sound a little crass, but consider the need - the suffering, damage, trauma, pain and so much else that requires many resources (money being a vital one) to alleviate and correct.

The second role, in conjunction with the first, is to share the story of these needs and issues, and empower and connect individual people to contribute to solutions.  Fundraisers must connect people with ways they can change the world.

It's so easy to get distracted by the many projects and steps along the way.  And while there are many steps required along the way, don't get distracted or mislead in to thinking they are the goal.  Don't lose focus on the money and the people.