Lesson 7: Make the best possible use of your resources. Your resources are your team and your tools. Growing lumber and growing gifts is a team effort, so take the time to reach out to yours.
Make sure your board knows that building planned gifts is one of their commitments; then, work out a plan that helps them do an effective and fulfilling job of it. Volunteers can be both prospects and scouts. Develop a trustworthy network of marketing and database partners, and learn from their experience. Finally, see that you have good tools, beginning with a good internal database and contact manager.
A Final Thought: There are billions of dollars at stake. In 2008, reported bequests totaled $22.66 billion. Most of these gifts were designated years before, and many of them were the result of thoughtful cultivation by professionals who were willing to invest their time and efforts to build a solid future for their organizations.
Author: Renee Durnin, CFRE
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