Boards That Love Fundraising: A How-To Guide for Your Board

By Ann W. Lehman and Robert M. Zimmerman

Book Overview

Written by Robert Zimmerman and Ann Lehman--leading experts in the field of fundraising and board development--Boards That Love Fundraising not only shows that all board members (no matter the level of experience) can learn to raise funds but also provides effective tips to the more experienced fundraisers. This workbook explains your fundraising responsibility as a board member while it: Provides information on board structure and its impact on raising money Outlines the concepts that will empower you to ask for money effectively and fearlessly Describes the wide variety of methods nonprofits use to raise money and? the board's role in each area Shows how to recruit board members who can help with fundraising Explores the vital issues of fundraising, planning, staffing, evaluation, and working with consultants

"The book provides tips to help board members overcome the fear of rejection and feel more comfortable asking for support."
-- The Chronicle of Philanthropy, May 27, 2004

[The authors exploration of] " ..topics such as how to ask for a substantial gift and motivations for giving are especially effective."
-- September 22, 2004, The Foundation Center, Philanthropy News Digest

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0787968129
• ISBN13: 9780787968120
• Release Date: February 2004
• Publisher: Jossey-Bass
• Length: 110 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.3" x 10.9"

Customer Reviews

A Book Board Members Will Actually Read

We have an annual board meeting where we constantly emphasize the Board's role in fundraising. Some board members really get it, but some, especially new members, don't fully understand that their job is to raise money. This year, we wanted a book that we could use at the meeting and that members could take home with them and use to inform their fundraising through the year. We wanted something that specifically made fundraising seem doable for people who had never done it before and who may be intimidated by asking for gifts. Members were very receptive to the book, it is short, sweet, and easy to follow. It is filled with training guides, examples, and exercises you can do with board members to prepare them for making an ask. Chapters are broken down into "chunks" which we found great - you can literally open the book up to any page and read a short chunk and get a lot of information. There are also helpful worksheets that will help you keep track of which board members are working in certain fundraising areas. Bottom line, I think this is a great tool for both board members and staff and worth the price.

A practical guide that makes sense

This book is a must for board members and anyone who works with boards. I have never fully understood the mechanics of how organizations raise money beyond grantseeking. This book lays out a number of alternatives and makes all seem doable. I especially appreciated the 'investing in social enterprises' concept of giving versus the more typical begging on bended knee for what are essential critical services to the community. The exercises are clearly explained and the language is straightforward and easy to follow. The underlying concepts go far to removing the mystery and fear of asking for money. The board recruitment grid, the fundraising planning section, working with consultants and the costs and evaluation sections appeal to my structured way of thinking. I can highly recommend this excellent resource.

An Encouraging and Practical Guide for Resource Development

Zimmerman and Lehman have written an encouraging and practical guide sure to help diffuse the fear and loathing with which most nonprofit board members face in fund development. Straight talk about board responsibilities sets the stage. Short easy exercises suitable for board meetings demonstrate fundraising skills and techniques. "Boards That Love Fundraising" provides the script for board presidents and staff to share the practice and the joy of successful resource development within any nonprofit. -Marcia Rundle, Regional Resource Development Director, Western States Region, Habitat for Humanity International

The only fundraising book you will ever need!

The authors challenge traditional attitudes, and fears, about fundraising by arguing that we should view the activity not as "tin-cup begging" but as providing a way for people to invest positively in their communities. The authors break new ground by focusing on benefits that *donors* derive from philanthropic giving and strategies to enhance these benefits. With exercises entitled "What Moves People to Give," the book offers ample opportunity for readers to apply this refreshing approach to their specific circumstances. As a Commissioner on the San Francisco Commission on the Status of Women, I also serve on the PTA board of my daughter's public elementary school, always in dire need of funds, and fundraise on behalf of my alma mater, Bryn Mawr College, which relies heavily on alumnae financial support, and I have found this book to be an invaluable resource. I recommend this easy-to-read and comprehensive guide to anyone who serves on a board, especially those of you who have been afraid of fundraising. You won't be able to put it down!

Great Nonprofit Board Resource!

I found this book to be a wonderfully straight-forward and user-friendly guide which can actually motivate a nonprofit board to sucessfully fundraise. I think it does a great job of insightfully recognizing the reluctance fundraisers have in asking for money. The authors answer this situation with, what are to me, practical and surprisingly simple ways in which to restore fundraisers' confidence (and enthusiasm!). I definately recommend it!