The Fundraiser’s Toolbox

You know that fundraising is hard work. To be successful you need to be well equipped to take on all its challenges. At SOFII, we thought you might like some help. So we’ve put together this fundraiser’s toolbox that we’ll be filling with essential examples, formats, articles, case studies, ideas and tips that we think every fundraiser should know about.

SAVE FINZ: Emergency direct mail appeal

by Joe Burnett

Facing difficult financial straits due to coronavirus, the Fundraising Institute of New Zealand launched an unprecedented matched funds appeal and brought in support from all around the world.

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The Great Bungay Duck Race: Virtual success in 2020

by Joe Burnett

How one small charity in rural England had to innovate and try out new ideas to ensure their event went ahead. When coronavirus forced them to go virtual, they did in style.

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The time for leadership - giving in the time of coronavirus

by Mark Phillips

The latest body of research by Mark Phillips and Bluefrog Fundraising highlights the need for leadership at a crucial time for fundraisers.

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The Good Suspended video series part two - three more fantastic little films

by Francesco Ambrogetti

There is nothing ordinary about how these people are reaching out to help others. Innovation, kindness and generosity abound in these three videos celebrating the unsung heroes of the coronavirus pandemic.

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The science of fundraising: Ask a behavioural scientist, part two

by Kiki Koutmeridou

From use of language to matching gifts via anthropomorphism of animals and end of fiscal year campaigns, behavioural scientist Dr. Kiki Koutmeridou answers key questions in fundraising from a scientific perspective.

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Bhopal Medical Appeal: At a time of crisis, Bhopal's clinics give back something beyond price

by Ken Burnett

In this time of crisis, these newspaper and magazine ads by the Bhopal Medical Appeal return the love they received from their donors 25 years ago.

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World-changers at Work - The Good Suspended video series part one

by Francesco Ambrogetti

All around the world, people are doing amazing things to help others cope during the coronavirus pandemic. Italian fundraiser Francesco Ambrogetti shares some of his favourites in this video series, entitled The Good Suspended.

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Refugees 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.

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The 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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Why do people give? Talking to donors during the coronavirus crisis

by Mark Phillips

How are donors feeling towards charities and what do they expect from them during the coronavirus crisis? Mark Phillips and Amber Nathan of Bluefrog Fundraising discuss their recent research into this crucial question.

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Why 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 yearsparticularly as baby boomers have begun to seriously consider which charities they want to remember.

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From the Myth Smashers: 'Fundraisers raise funds not friends' – smashing that myth

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. 

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