This photo is not where I work. It's a photo taken near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, the site of a one-week condo stay we are auctioning off at our live auction for Opera Colorado's 2011 Gala.
Yet working in fundraising many times makes me feel like I'm on the beach. Living the dream. Fundraising to me is such an important part of a compassionate, caring, cultural world and I am so grateful that I get the opportunity to do it.
So what does a Development Director do every day? If you have read previous blog posts or follow me on Twitter, you most likely know that I am not a typical fundraiser. I have been only doing this for the past few years, and I have found success in fundraising going down roads that are not common in your average fundraising plan. So here is a list of 10 things I do, if not daily, frequently. Another list will come shortly, but this is a good start.
One last thing. I totally understand that what I do may not work for everyone. A great example will be number 1.
1. Have Pandora or my IPOD on. Music inspires me and gets me ready to rock-n-roll. Especially before an important call.
2. Maintain a sense of gratitude. The truth is that I have so much. My life is amazing.
3. Thank you co-workers/team. Together you can rock it.
4. Let your friends on Facebook and Twitter know what you're doing.
5. Connect with a donor. This should happen every day. No matter your position, no matter how "busy" you are, no matter that the grant application is due at 5pm. Do it. Make the call.
6. Connect with a second donor. I know, but seriously, these connections are the life-blood of your organization.
7. Respond to, delete, or folder your email. I try to have no more than 20 emails in my inbox at any given time.
8. Investigate a potential corporate sponsor. Yes, this is a daily activity. If you can do more that is awesome. The more you can reach out to or check into the better.
9. Read. A blog. The newest fundraising book. A book about the cause you fundraise for. Take some time and read. I am currently reading "Flash Foresight" and "Opera 101".
10. Have dinner with your spouse. For sure. Or your significant other. Or a good friend. If you are married, dinner every night is an amazing thing.
Happy Friday everyone. I hope each of you has a wonderful day. Thank you so much for reading!
