The Problem With “A Culture of Philanthropy”

I used to talk a lot about building a culture of philanthropy.

It was a popular topic in the fundraising space and had the advantage of being just nebulous enough to be presented as the answer to any number of nonprofit woes.

Board not involved with fundraising? Build a culture of philanthropy!

Staff members non supporting the fundraising efforts? Build a culture of philanthropy!

Break room fridge needs cleaning? Build a culture of philanthropy!

The problem is that building a culture is not the result of a single task. It’s the result of leadership decisions, staffing, hallway conversations, volunteer interactions, and countless small decisions that add up over time.

But the problem remains: organizations that treat fundraising as the sole providence of a single employee or department will find it very difficult to raise funds, retain donors, and engage the community in a sustainable and impactful way.

At first glance, this makes fundraising seem unique within the organization. Other functions are handled by team members with very little input or involvement from staff members or volunteers.

In my career, no one from the finance team ever asked me to pitch in and help with a check run because I wasn’t trained or responsible for that work.

But I was engaged in it.

When the CFO asked for my help collecting fundraising data for an audit, showed me how to fill out an invoice request, or reminded me how to track my mileage and expenses, I was engaging in the work of the finance team. In a small way, I was part of the process.

And that’s what we need from our teams when it comes to fundraising. It’s not about expecting every employee or board member to write an appeal or visit with a donor – it’s about sharing impact data, welcoming volunteers to the mission, and helping the fundraising team tell mission stories that resonate with donors.

It’s not about culture. It’s about engagement in philanthropy.

The full expression of fundraising – from cultivation to stewardship – requires engagement from the full organization. And we can build that engagement by showing our colleagues how the work they do, the stories and info they share, contributes to donor support.

 Are you ready to build engagement in philanthropy with your board and team? Because I’m ready to help you! Together, we can Align and Accelerate your efforts to do more for your mission and your cause.

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