Opinion / features
Many of the issues that matter most to fundraisers are far from clear cut. Here, in a series of illustrated feature articles, seasoned practitioners and newcomers alongside leading figures from the world of fundraising are free to give vent to their passionately-held views and opinions. Join the big debates or study the side issues so you can work out your own view on what matters most.
Recasting the ‘middle man’ - the role of charities in the age of disintermediation (part two)
by Meredith Niles
In part two of our series on the role of disintermediation in charitable giving, Meredith Niles discusses why disintermediated giving could be more attractive than traditional charitable giving (in some situations). She also shares some of the ways in which charities might respond to these changes in donor giving patterns.
Read moreRecasting the ‘middle man’ - the role of charities in the age of disintermediation (part one)
by Meredith Niles
In part one of a two-part series on the role of disintermediation in charitable giving, Meredith Niles takes an in-depth look at how the public responded philanthropically to the war in Ukraine. She draws on several research studies to look at donor motivations and help you answer the question, ‘should fundraisers be concerned that people might stop giving via charities altogether?’
Read moreChatGPT and fundraising – what do you need to know? (part two)
by Cherian Koshy
In the second instalment of our series on ChatGPT and fundraising, SOFII talks to Cherian Koshy – the founder of a platform that democratises access to artificial intelligence and machine learning for nonprofit organisations. Dive in and explore Cherian’s in-depth insights and opinions on ChatGPT for fundraisers.
Read moreHow jargon destroys non-profit fundraising and marketing
by Claire Axelrad
Do you use a lot of jargon in your fundraising communications? If so, it’s probably time for a rethink!
Read moreAre F-bombs acceptable for your fundraising?
by Ephraim Gopin
Reader advisory! This article contains strong profanity as Ephraim Gopin explores the dos and don’ts of swearing in charity communications.
Read moreThe pie lies – why you should put the charity spending pie chart straight in the bin
by Caoileann Appleby
Pie charts may seem like a good way to assess your organisation’s success but Caoileann Appleby of Ask Direct points out they’re really best ignored – or even chucked in the bin.
Read moreThe Bata Shoes story
by Ken Burnett
In this article from his archive, SOFII founder Ken Burnett muses on how fundraisers should look at the world and our profession. He also draws unexpected inspiration from the number one shoe company in Africa.
Read moreThe Olive Cooke story
by Ken Burnett
How the tragic case of Olive Cooke impacted the fundraising sector and led to radical change.
Read moreCharity Chat Podcast - How does SOFII inspire fundraisers worldwide?
by Samuel Davies
Joe Burnett, our contributing editor, talks with Samuel Davies of Charity Chat in this great podcast. They discuss the virtues of SOFII and give an insider’s look at what the site and the charity can offer you.
Read moreFurloughed Fundraisers Chat: A safe space to be
by Claire James
In a time of crisis for fundraisers, a wonderful group of furloughed charity professionals have gathered together on Facebook to help and support one another.
Read moreRefugees build bridges across society
by Lyndall Stein
In an article originally written for Fair Observer during Refugee Week, Lyndall celebrates the contributions refugees have made to British society and how we can fight back against discrimination and prejudice.
Read moreThe science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part one
by Kiki Koutmeridou
Why do people give and how can we persuade them to give more or continue donating? Maybe the answer lies in behavioural science? We’re delighted to be able to share this first Q&A on the topic with Dr Kiki Koutmeridou.
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