My 16 years of fundraising experience has taught me many things the most important being that good fundraising is nothing more than storytelling (with an “ask.”)  I have a story to tell about my organization and a prospective donor has a story to tell about their lives and concerns. My job is to create a new story that combines the two. Now we have a shared story – a story worth supporting. That is really all there is to it.  Well OK, it is a bit more complicated but to me storytelling is the essence of good fundraising.

A few years ago I was asked to write a statement that described my personal style.  So I threw caution and modesty to the wind and I wrote this …

Creative, decisive results oriented professional.  Successfully manages projects at large and small institutions, a strategic thinker with excellent communication skills and a can-do attitude.  Handles multiple projects with grace and ease is a moderate computer geek with Southern charm and New York speed who has ability (chutzpa) and willingness to talk to anyone.  Serious with a sense of humor and more than comfortable making the “ask” - a born closer. 

I am involved in the Association of Fundraising Professional New York and I serve on their Professional Development Committee and have taught or moderated several programs for them.  I will teach in NYU's Fundraising Certificate Summer Intensive again this year.

The other great thing about the "storytelling" aspect of fundraising is that each story is a tale of adventure.  I would love to share some of these tales or create some new stories with you