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.
The 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 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 moreWhy do people give? The legacy podcast with Richard Radcliffe
by Mark Phillips
In this conversation, experienced legacy fundraiser Richard Radcliffe shares why people leave bequests and what changes he has noticed over the years, particularly as baby boomers have begun to seriously consider which charities they want to remember.
Read moreFrom the Myth Smashers: ‘Fundraisers raise funds not friends’
by Lauren McDermott
‘Too often our focus is on our own needs and short-term goals.’ So says Lauren McDermott of Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research in Western Australia, winner of Mythsmashers at the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s annual conference 2020.
Read moreWhy do people give? The podcast with Ken Burnett
by Mark Phillips
We bring you Mark Phillips’ conversation with SOFII founder and fundraising expert Ken Burnett, from the podcast Why do people give?
Read moreFundraising in a time of crisis: the rise of altruism
by Richard Turner
Richard Turner reflects on how people have shown their altruism and goodness in fundraising since the coronavirus outbreak.
Read moreFrom the Myth Smashers: Is fundraising all about the money?
by Claire Hughes
What is fundraising all about? If you think it’s all about making money, then think again. Claire Hughes talks you through how we can all smash this fundraising myth.
Read moreMeet the fundraising Myth Smashers
by Joe Burnett
SOFII shares the winning presentations from Myth Smashers, Fundraising Institute of Australia’s IWITOT-inspired event. These young fundraisers each shine a light on dispiriting fundraising myths and show how they can be overcome.
Read moreAn ethical, principled approach to donors and fundraising: a strategy case study from World Land Trust
by John Burton
In this first part of three, CEO John Burton of the World Land Trust outlines his organisation’s fundraising ethos and how this has helped them grow and make an impact on the environment.
Read moreDo you have the answer to the donor consent issue? Here’s a behavioural scientist’s perspective
by Kiki Koutmeridou
Asking for your donors’ consent about when and how to contact them is a hot topic right now. Where do you stand?
Read more
