Opinion and debates
Hot topics abound in fundraising and this showcase puts the spotlight on some of our sector’s most influential controversies and opinions. In these feature articles and debates, fundraisers are free to give their views. These pieces are designed to be balanced, constructive and respectful of the sensitivities of others. Some of the authors have started a debate within their articles, and we invite you to add your ideas in the comments.
From the Myth Smashers: Do donors really love having a brick with their name on it?
by Kellie O’Sullivan
When it comes to capital campaigns, 2022 Myth Smashers winner Kellie O’Sullivan isn’t sure putting your donor’s name on a brick is strictly necessary. She thinks it’s less about the brick and mortar or the physical building – and more about ‘building’ a legacy that lays the foundations of community, connection, and collaboration.
Read moreFrom the Myth Smashers: Guess what? Mid value donors are not major donors in disguise!
by Kate Rule
Just like the cliché of the middle child, mid value donors can sometimes be forgotten, ignored, or swept up in other segments. But 2023 Myth Smashers winner Kate Rule believes that mid value donors are not major donors in disguise! Keep reading to discover why Kate wants you to rethink your stewardship strategy for mid value donors.
Read moreRecasting the ‘middle man’ - the role of charities in the age of disintermediation (Pt 2)
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 (Pt 1)
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 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.
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