Do you dread fundraising? "Hate Fundraising?: How to Become Comfortable Asking for Money" by Barrie Atkin and Mila Johansen understands your discomfort. This essential guide tackles the common anxieties surrounding fundraising, offering practical solutions and creative strategies to overcome them. Whether you're an executive director, board member, or volunteer, this book provides proven techniques to build confidence in soliciting donations. Atkin, an experienced fundraising consultant, shares personal anecdotes and real-world examples to help you navigate the challenges of asking for money, offering alternative approaches for those who find direct solicitation difficult. Learn to transform your fundraising experience from daunting to fulfilling, ensuring your organization thrives.
Review HATE FUNDRAISING?
"Hate Fundraising?" isn't just a catchy title; it's a genuine reflection of the anxieties many of us feel when faced with the prospect of asking for money, even for a worthy cause. Barrie Atkin and Mila Johansen expertly tap into this discomfort, creating a book that's both insightful and incredibly supportive. This isn't a dry, technical manual; it's a friendly conversation, guiding you through the emotional hurdles that often prevent us from effectively fundraising.
What sets this book apart is its empathetic approach. Instead of simply presenting fundraising strategies, the authors delve into the why behind our reluctance. They skillfully categorize common fears – fear of rejection, fear of damaging relationships, fear of appearing needy – and address each one with thoughtful consideration and practical solutions. It's this understanding of the emotional landscape of fundraising that makes the advice so readily applicable. The authors acknowledge that fundraising isn't just about the numbers; it's about building genuine connections and fostering a shared belief in a cause.
The step-by-step approach is incredibly helpful. The book doesn't throw a whirlwind of techniques at you; instead, it builds a solid foundation of understanding, moving progressively through strategies for overcoming fear and developing confidence. The authors share real-world examples and anecdotes, illustrating how these techniques can be implemented effectively in various settings. It feels less like a lecture and more like a supportive mentor walking you through the process.
Beyond the direct strategies for asking for donations, the book also explores alternative ways to support an organization. The authors highlight the significant contribution that can be made through volunteering time, offering skills, and networking. This broadened perspective is invaluable, demonstrating that support comes in many forms, alleviating the pressure of solely focusing on monetary contributions. This approach is particularly beneficial for those who might be uncomfortable directly soliciting donations but still wish to make a meaningful contribution.
I found the inclusion of different fundraising methods particularly helpful. It wasn't just about asking for large donations; the book explored diverse avenues like grant writing, event planning, and online crowdfunding, providing a comprehensive toolkit for those navigating the fundraising world. The authors' focus on building lasting relationships with donors is also a crucial takeaway. It's a reminder that effective fundraising is not a one-time event but a continuous process of nurturing connections and demonstrating the impact of contributions.
For anyone involved in a nonprofit organization, working on a personal project needing funding, or simply passionate about supporting a cause, this book is a must-read. It's a valuable resource that tackles the emotional challenges head-on, equipping readers with the confidence and practical tools to approach fundraising with ease and effectiveness. It's not just about conquering your fear; it's about empowering you to make a real difference.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.27 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 118
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Introduction
- Chapter 1: Why Fundraising is Important
- Chapter 2: Why People Hate Fundraising
- Chapter 3: Category 1 Lack of Knowledge of Fundraising Techniques or Best Practices
- Chapter 4: Category 2 Lack of Confidence in Your Abilities
- Chapter 5: Category 3 Discomfort with Money or Talking About Money
- Chapter 6: Category 4 Fear of Damaging a Relationship with a Friend or Relative
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