Chicago, IL, November 11, 2008 - In fundraising, creating a culture where everyone at all levels of an organization understands the importance of philanthropy and fund development, as well as their role, starts with an engaged CEO and board. Involvement by all constituency groups is the key, Bridget Murphy, senior vice president and managing director for Graham-Pelton Consulting, Inc., told attendees at the Midwest Conference on Philanthropy.
Murphy co-presented "Creating a Culture of Philanthropy" with Jan Hillman, associate vice president for university development at Write State University at the conference, which was hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Chicago.
Murphy said an organization with a philanthropic culture has several key attributes, including:
- A prominent place in the organization's strategic plan
- Visibility throughout its facilities
- Chief development officer reports to the CEO
- Trustee selection includes philanthropy
- Board shares responsibility for goals
- A donor-focused staff
- Development viewed as a revenue center
- Linked to the bottom line
Murphy, who has worked with a wide range of nonprofit organizations throughout an extensive fundraising career, helping them achieve their capital campaign and development goals, shared several strategies for building a culture of philanthropy. Suggested strategies at the leadership level include educating and training administration and board members about philanthropy, as well as showing benchmarking, best practices, cost ratios and return on investment analysis. Strategies for employees and staff include employee orientation to philanthropy, presenting an award for employee involvement with philanthropy, and rallying employees around an annual giving campaign. Murphy said ways to communicate philanthropy goals and progress could include newsletters, posters, brochures, press releases, print ads and radio spots.
"By establishing the importance of a culture of philanthropy, you will position your organization as a leader in providing the means to fulfill your mission," Murphy said.
About Graham-Pelton Consulting, Inc.
Graham-Pelton is a leading fundraising consulting firm with the experience, flexibility, insight and resources to help nonprofit organizations carry out their visions and exceed expectations. Graham-Pelton focuses on helping clients attain their full funding potential and long-term growth using feasibility assessments, capital campaigns, planned giving, annual fund management and other uniquely tailored services. Learn more at www.grahampelton.com.
