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JVT2
Posted September 24, 2012
Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE, is well-known to us all. One of the few development professionals to have the Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive distinction, she is prolific in her writing, distinguised in her consulting and highly esteemed in her teaching. That she is also editor of We Review requires a bit of going around the very modest boss so that this review will see light of day!
In Fundraising for the Genius (and here it’s for the genius in us all), Lysakowski has truly given us a gift, a tour de force, a comprehensive, knowledgeable, wise and practical overview of the elements of resource development. A definitive look at what we do!
In twenty-nine chapters and in thirty-one very useful appendixes, Lysakowski covers all of the specific elements of development and the tools and templates needed to do our work effectively in an understandable way. I know I will adopt it for my graduate school class in development and recommend it to friends and to those seeking to know about careers in fundraising.
Starting with clarifying terminology, Lysakowski delves into the role of development in the nonprofit and its often-misunderstood importance.
She emphasizes that development is everyone’s job, its competitive nature in an overcrowded field and the absolute necessity for ethical behavior in the profession.
Expanding her ideas on development roles, she sets out the responsibilities of Board, volunteers and staff. She then examines the sources of needed resources for revenue, volunteers, in-kind: individuals, foundations, businesses and voluntary organizations.
The necessary conditions for effective fundraising are reviewed in rich depth: strategic planning, a development plan, understanding of motives for charitable giving, the dynamics of the process, infrastructure of the development office, marketing and communication and making a strong case.
The methodologies of effective fundraising are then explored in separate chapters: direct mail, telephone solicitation, internet and social media, special events, grant-writing, personal solicitation, capital campaigns and planned giving, resulting in a rich bouquet of options.
Finally, evaluation of development efforts, essential to effective and growth, continuous improvement for better results and establishment of visionary goals for the future are all described by the consummate professional.
The Appendices add a wonderful and useful bonus: samples, templates, charts, job descriptions, worksheets, formats, plans, evaluations, guides, and assessments that move the conceptual into the practical hands-on tools ready for our use in the office tomorrow. Few such volumes do this and rarely on such a large and comprehensive scale.
Overall, this book covers all of the essentials and does it through the eyes and experience of one of the top professionals in the nation. The insights and depth of knowledge exhibited here are profound and will enlarge the understanding of both the newcomer and the seasoned executive. This is one of those books that is opened often by those of us looking for inspiration as well as knowledge of specific elements of the profession. Thank you, Linda.
MargeProFundraiser
Posted July 10, 2012
Quality, clear, relevant, and complete content for pro's, newbies, and everyone in-between! In just one chapter of this book I learned more than reading all of Fundraising for Dummies. As with Linda's other books, the review at the end of each chapter helped me decide which chapters to review now...for the work I am doing for current clients.
Marge Becker, Principal
Becker Fundraising, LLC
DannyB2
Posted July 6, 2012
Fundraising for the Genius! I am the Vice Chairman of a national foundation and currently work with about 40 volunteers across the country. Lysakowski’s chapter called “Involving Volunteers in your Fundraising Program” and her “Pure Genius” sidebar about how to motivate Board members really resonated with me. After reading how one of her clients tracks Board gifts I had immediate success using the technique with our volunteers. Whether you’ve never picked up a book on fundraising, or have a library full - like me, you will want to add this one to your list.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Lisa_Chutjian
Posted July 6, 2012
My volunteer organization has worked with Linda in the past. What was particularly gratifying was to find that the steps and strategies Linda used with us were laid out so clearly in her book, making it possible for anyone to follow a tried and true process. In my professional life, I’m looking forward to using the information Linda has shared to build on our achievements and create a full development initiative to bring us greater fundraising success.
Was this review helpful? Yes NoThank you for your feedback. Report this reviewThank you, this review has been flagged.Margaret40
Posted July 4, 2012
Linda lives up to the title Fundraising for the Genius – by being a GENIUS. This book cites not just “epiphany moments” but the challenges and stumbling blocks professionals face every day. The appendix – too often overlooked – is a work of art and the blue prints for everyone’s tool box. A must read!
Margaret Guellich, CFRE
President, MAG’s Philanthropic Consulting
Anonymous
Posted July 2, 2012
I accepted a position to start a nonprofit foundation raising money for Parkinson’s research—without a background in fundraising or nonprofits. I took an AFP course with Linda the second month on the job and it was the best move I could have made!!! Linda is incredibly knowledgeable—and has a style of teaching that anyone can understand. She has continued as a consultant for us over the years and she understands every aspect of managing a nonprofit; raising funds; and running an effective Board. Although I still will use her as a consultant this book will be on my desk every day! Anyone who has any type of a position in the nonprofit world should read this!!
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Overview
As with all books of the For the GENIUS line, it is written in a fun, upbeat, easy-to-follow style, but doesn’t insult your intelligence. In fact, it assumes you are a genius! By “genius” we don’t mean that you’re an Einstein (though you...