As Women Surge in Leadership and Philanthropy, Are They Among Your Top Fundraising Priorities?
With the election drawn to a close, it is undeniable that women were pivotal in this critical moment in our democracy. We now have the first woman, and a woman of color, for the second highest position in our country. The Ms. Foundation put together a list of historic victories for women on the local, state and national level. […]
A Broader Definition of Philanthropy by Women
My husband and I just moved to a new home. Crazy, eh, considering this chaotic time and worries about Covid-19? With lots of planning and tons of support, we survived and in fact are thriving in our new home and community. Throughout the upheaval, I observed that I was acting as the quintessential woman philanthropist. […]
Women’s Philanthropy: A Sector-Wide Journey to Inclusion
The movement to grow women’s philanthropy is not meant to focus only on one profile of women who give. Women’s philanthropy includes ALL those who identify as women. It is intended to be inclusive. Yet current language and actions by those who identify as white cisgender women leaders in this movement – including myself – […]
All Voices at the Table
The pandemic and resulting unstable economy have laid bare the inequities in our healthcare system and our society. Senseless killings and growing rage against social injustice have amplified the inequities and desire for real change. Among the many actions we can take to drive change in the philanthropic sector, one can accelerate change – having […]
Don’t Unconsciously Overlook Women
As the pandemic continues and many inequities are revealed, I want to shine a light on the importance of staying focused on intentionally and consistently connecting to women in our fundraising. As during other crises, women donors want to help now and are ready to commit to meaningful action. Are you holding back on having […]
Purpose and Power Will Emerge from a Pause
We are one month in facing the realities of this global pandemic across our country and the swift changes it has wrought on all of our lives. Even as we’ve been beset with worries and concerns, and scrambled with social distancing, limited supplies, virtual teams, home schooling and elder care, we’ve begun to see a […]
A Fun Way To Raise Awareness of Women’s Preferences in Your Organization
As awareness about women’s philanthropic power grows, many fundraising professionals know that it’s time to pay attention to women — or miss out on critical support. But one team member can’t do it alone. Success relies on engagement by all parts of the organization, including leadership. How can you build awareness within your team, leadership, […]
AFP Reports on Engaging Women Donors
To unlock the full potential of women’s philanthropy, fundraisers must understand how gender shapes giving behavior. Women and men give differently, and the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) has developed research that explores unique questions about the factors that shape gender-based giving patterns – including age, religion, income, marital status, and more. “Fundraisers who adapt their practices to […]
Is It Harder to Fundraise from Women?
I recently asked a leader of advancement at a state college if she used different approaches in working with women versus men donors on her campus. This was not meant to be a trick question. I was very curious, as she had been a leader in sorority fundraising and had demonstrated an understanding of how […]
Connect with Empathy-Driven Women Donors by Telling Your Story
One report from the Women’s Philanthropy Institute found that “When women give, they tend to express a desire to help others, whereas men tend to focus on the benefits that come from being charitable.” Women’s giving is driven by empathy, the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings. When we see others in need, […]