Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Douglas Shaw & Associates Proven fundraising solutions for more donors and better donors ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.douglasshaw.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://www.douglasshaw.com/blog/) - [Your Donors Are Texting. Why Aren’t You?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/your-donors-are-texting/) - This fall, I’m doing something I never thought I would do. I’m taking my first cruise. For years, I’ve said cruises weren’t for me. They’re too crowded. Too scheduled. Too much time on a boat. But then I realized something: my opinions were based on assumptions, not experience (a.k.a. data). - [Seeing Is Believing](https://www.douglasshaw.com/seeing-is-believing/) - Before I ever step inside one of my rescue mission clients, I’ve usually spent hours with reports, campaign results, and donor data. I know what performed, what didn’t, and where there may be opportunities for improvement. But none of this prepares me for what I learn once I’m actually there. - [Are You Ready (in July) for GivingTuesday (in December)?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/are-you-ready-for-givingtuesday/) - Some $4 billion was donated during GivingTuesday in 2025[1], bringing total donations since 2012 to $22.5 billion. This demonstrates the incredible power of this global day of giving. But the organizations that see the strongest results aren’t scrambling to draft emails or build donation pages the week before. They’re planning, testing, storytelling, and building momentum months in advance. - [The Math of Showing Up](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-math-of-showing-up/) - Every year, we bring back some good old-fashioned competition in the form of an annual walking challenge. It’s simple: the person with the most miles at the end of 8 weeks takes home the prize. Thirty of us logged miles, with Dr. Jim—our staff data scientist—helping us track everything. We grab our Smart Watch, Fitbit, Fitness app, Strava, step counter . . . whatever works . . . and we start pounding the pavement! - [From GivingTuesday Campaign to Growth Opportunity](https://www.douglasshaw.com/from-givingtuesday-campaign-to-growth-opportunity/) - Has GivingTuesday lost its fundraising power? With crowded inboxes and year-end campaigns starting earlier every year, it’s easy to see why some nonprofits are asking the question. - [AI Summaries Are Changing Search. What Should Nonprofits Do Next?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ai-summaries-are-changing-search/) - Digital channels are notorious for changing quickly—and right now there’s a huge change hitting Google advertising. - [5 Digital Fundraising Fixes Faith-Based Nonprofits Should Revisit Now](https://www.douglasshaw.com/5-digital-fundraising-fixes-faith-based-nonprofits-should-revisit-now/) - Faith-based nonprofits experienced remarkable growth in online fundraising for years—much of that momentum accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when digital engagement became a necessity rather than an option. - [Six Essentials of Rapidly Growing Nonprofits](https://www.douglasshaw.com/six-essentials-of-rapidly-growing-nonprofits/) - In this fast-paced workshop, based on Doug Shaw’s book, Six Essentials of Rapidly Growing Nonprofits, Mindy Sherfy (Senior VP of Partnership Development & Marketing at Douglas Shaw & Associates) unpacks key patterns in organizations that thrive. - [Why Good Missions Still Fail](https://www.douglasshaw.com/why-good-missions-still-fail/) - In Why Good Missions Still Fail, Brittané Dodwell (Creative Director at Douglas Shaw & Associates) explores a reality many nonprofits and ministries face: Good missions can still fail to inspire donor response when the fundraising offer itself is unclear, not urgent, or overly organization focused. - [We Don’t Get to Make the Rules](https://www.douglasshaw.com/we-dont-get-to-make-the-rules/) - In We Don’t Get to Make the Rules, Isabelle Muñoz (Consultant for Client Services at Douglas Shaw & Associates) explains that while the mission itself may be deeply meaningful and eternal, donor behavior is still shaped by very human patterns of emotion, connection, and invitation. - [The Most Dangerous Stories in Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-most-dangerous-stories-in-fundraising/) - The stories that raise the most money often start in the hardest places. If you work in direct response fundraising, you know this already. - [Earning a Donor’s Trust Through Small, Strategic Steps](https://www.douglasshaw.com/earning-a-donors-trust-through-small-strategic-steps/) - New donors generally make the choice to give because they believe the organization is in a position to fulfill a specific need. But they continue to give because they have built confidence in the organization. - [One Simple Way to Increase Your Revenue 7%](https://www.douglasshaw.com/one-simple-way-to-increase-your-revenue/) - If someone walked into your office today and handed you a $50 check to support your mission, what would you do? - [Using Technology to Build Trust with Your Donors—Supporting Relationships](https://www.douglasshaw.com/using-technology-to-build-trust-with-your-donors-supporting-relationships/) - Many of the fears about new technology center around the idea of machines replacing humans and crowding out meaningful interactions. Trying to connect with a customer service department but being met only with an out-of-touch chatbot can drive consumers away from the retailers who depersonalize their experience. - [Why Your Donation Page Technology Matters More Than You Think](https://www.douglasshaw.com/why-your-donation-page-technology-matters-more-than-you-think/) - When a potential donor is about to click “Give Now,” they’re not just making a financial decision—they’re making a trust decision. In that moment, your donation page becomes the most important touchpoint your organization has. - [A Mission Your Donors Can Understand](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-mission-your-donors-can-understand/) - I spent a good deal of time traveling and volunteering in India many years ago. It was an eye-opening experience in a lot of ways. - [Aligning Donor Value from the Very First Gift](https://www.douglasshaw.com/aligning-donor-value-from-the-very-first-gift/) - Fundraising teams invest extraordinary effort and budget to acquire new donors, yet a surprising amount of potential revenue never materializes. - [Can Your Donor File Support the Future You’re Planning?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/can-your-donor-file-support-the-future-youre-planning/) - Across the nonprofit sector, industry reporting consistently shows that the number of donors is shrinking, especially among small and first-time donors. This pattern has been clearly documented by the Fundraising Effectiveness Project, Giving USA, and other benchmarking efforts. - [You Had Me at Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/you-had-me-at-thank-you/) - Taking the time to personally write a thank-you letter is one of the best (and easiest) ways to nurture a long-lasting donor relationship. - [Courage, Humility, and Faith Lived Boldly](https://www.douglasshaw.com/courage-humility-and-faith-lived-boldly/) - There’s so much that I don’t know about the greatest leaders of our country. I’m trying to correct some of my ignorance by studying U.S. history and learning from their influence and attributes. Until I’ve mastered my subjects, I’m left to measure the character of our nation’s leaders by how well their words align with what I know to be true of their actions. - [Christmas Is for the Impatient](https://www.douglasshaw.com/christmas-is-for-the-impatient/) - Any child could confirm that Christmas is a time of great expectation. The festive decorations, the tree, and the mystery of what lies wrapped in brightly colored boxes all add to the excitement and impatience for the day when what is hidden will be revealed. - [This Christmas](https://www.douglasshaw.com/this-christmas/) - Each of us has found ourselves on our own journey through life. Even if we travel in the same direction as others, our journey is unique. - [Christmas . . . Reconnecting With The Ancient](https://www.douglasshaw.com/christmas-reconnecting-with-the-ancient/) - Many organizations are experiencing lower giving in 2022 than at any time in the past three years. Almost everyone we talk to is experiencing lower results this year, and they want to know “Why is giving down?” - [The Perils of Thanksgiving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-perils-of-thanksgiving/) - Be careful, be very, very careful! Before you know it, you may find yourself caught in an airport somewhere or stranded in traffic trying to get to Thanksgiving Dinner. - [A Different Kind of Thanksgiving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-different-kind-of-thanksgiving/) - I spent much of my early years living on farms and ranches in Central Washington State. So “social distancing” was a way of life except when the school bus picked me up at the end of very long gravel roads, where the mailbox stood. - [Thanksgiving Is Complicated](https://www.douglasshaw.com/thanksgiving-is-complicated/) - On two different occasions I served in the development/advancement departments of a long-standing nonprofit, serving the needs of the poor and those fleeing persecution in their home countries. - [The Thanksgiving Journey](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-thanksgiving-journey/) - Each of us has found ourselves on our own journey through life. Even if we travel in the same direction as others, our journey is unique. - [Is Direct Mail Dead?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ask-wiley-is-direct-mail-dead/) - With much excitement, we announce a new Donor Focus column that answers queries from fundraisers like you by Wiley Stinnett, our veteran SVP, Executive Creative Director. The first question up: “Is Direct Mail Dead?” - [Should we focus on getting younger donors?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ask-wiley-should-we-focus-on-getting-younger-donors/) - Wiley, our active donors range in age from 50-65 years of age, yet I’m concerned we’re missing out on attracting new donors. Should we change what we’re doing and focus on getting younger donors? - [How can I meet higher income expectations for next year?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ask-wiley-income-growth/) - As a fundraiser, have you ever wondered where income growth expectations come from? Over the past 35 years, I’ve often wondered if that number is driven by the costs to increase services to those being served, or just an arbitrary goal. But, as the person responsible for making it happen, you need a plan! - [How do I respond to a donor who says we mail them too much?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ask-wiley-when-donors-complain-too-much-mail/) - None of us enjoy receiving a negative call from a donor. But there are steps you can take that can prevent you from losing much-needed income. - [What should I be looking for when hiring a Director of Development?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-should-i-be-looking-for-when-hiring-a-director-of-development/) - Question: What should I be looking for when hiring a Director of Development? Answer: Hire someone who has a proven track record of having raised funds before that fits with your organization or ministry. You may think that this answer is too simplistic, but it’s true and when combined with these additional criteria, will help you fill your position and raise the funds you need: - [We are looking at changing our branding, will there be any impact on fundraising?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/we-are-looking-at-changing-our-branding-will-there-be-any-impact-on-fundraising/) - Question: What should I be looking for when hiring a Director of Development? Answer: Hire someone who has a proven track record of having raised funds before that fits with your organization or ministry. You may think that this answer is too simplistic, but it’s true and when combined with these additional criteria, will help you fill your position and raise the funds you need: - [Ask Wiley: Is there any research to validate the need for direct mail in communication with donors?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/research-to-validate-direct-mail/) - With much excitement, we announce a new Donor Focus column that answers queries from fundraisers like you by Wiley Stinnett, our veteran SVP, Executive Creative Director. The first question up: “Is Direct Mail Dead?” - [Ask Wiley: Capitalizing on special events, how do I make them successful?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/capitalizing-on-special-events-how-do-i-make-them-successful/) - With much excitement, we announce a new Donor Focus column that answers queries from fundraisers like you by Wiley Stinnett, our veteran SVP, Executive Creative Director. The first question up: “Is Direct Mail Dead?” - [Ask Wiley: What If I Don’t Have The Funds To Invest In Donor Acquisition?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-if-i-dont-have-the-funds-to-invest-in-donor-acquisition/) - With much excitement, we announce a new Donor Focus column that answers queries from fundraisers like you by Wiley Stinnett, our veteran SVP, Executive Creative Director. The first question up: “What If I Don’t Have The Funds To Invest In Donor Acquisition?” - [MORE DONORS, MORE IMPACT: A Proven Formula for Fundraising Growth](https://www.douglasshaw.com/more-donors-more-impact-a-proven-formula-for-fundraising-growth/) - In my 40+ years of raising funds for nonprofits, two facts have remained consistently clear: More income is always needed to serve more people, and more income is expected every year. - [DONOR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS: Building and Maintaining Strong Relationships](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-engagement-matters-building-and-maintaining-strong-relationships/) - On a daily basis at home, I have a growing population of wild chickens that like to hang around, climb the trees, and make a mess of my garden. In today’s climate, with egg prices the way they have been, you might say that I live on a modern-day goldmine. But when you also have a dog . . . things can get wild. - [WE WOULDN’T BE SERVING YOU WELL IF WE DIDN’T TELL YOU . . .](https://www.douglasshaw.com/we-wouldnt-be-serving-you-well-if-we-didnt-tell-you/) - Here at Douglas Shaw & Associates, we believe we owe you the truth about direct response fundraising as we know it. Hopefully, those we have the privilege of serving as client-partners can vouch for us on this point. - [FINDING YOUR PACE: Identifying the Right Donor Acquisition Balance for Growth](https://www.douglasshaw.com/finding-your-pace-identifying-the-right-donor-acquisition-balance-for-growth/) - I wouldn’t call myself a ‘runner.’ To me, runners are people who thrive on running—who find it exhilarating and energizing. I do run—because it’s good for me and I want to stay healthy—but I’m more of a “need a pep talk to make it up this hill” kind of runner. - [INNOVATING FOR IMPACT: Small Steps, Big Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/innovating-for-impact-small-steps/) - Thirty years ago, in 1994, I found myself stuck on the couch. A series of injuries left me unable to go outside and play like my friends. Instead, I spent hours with a stack of books and a mind that wouldn’t quit. - [FUNDRAISING PRINCIPLES: What’s Stood the Test of Time?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/fundraising-principles-whats-stood-the-test-of-time/) - That’s a long time to partner with the nonprofit community. It’s even more amazing when you think of all the many changes Douglas Shaw & Associates has witnessed in nonprofit fundraising—but more importantly, how much has stayed the same. - [It’s Douglas Shaw & Associates’ 30th Anniversary Year . . . So Why Should You Care?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/30-anniversary-year/) - One of the things we’ve learned over the past 30 years is that donors generally do NOT find the anniversary of a nonprofit organization to be a sufficient reason to give a gift! Of course, we learned it the way most of us do . . . by making mistakes. - [Upcoming Webinar: Preparing For The Unexpected](https://www.douglasshaw.com/upcoming-webinar-preparing-for-the-unexpected/) - Change—the inevitable constant. And with change, comes challenges. - [Evaluate and Strengthen Your Fundraising Offer](https://www.douglasshaw.com/evaluate-and-strengthen-your-fundraising-offer/) - This year’s buzzword: Uncertainty. A year filled with twists and turns . . . and if we are guaranteed one thing next year, it’s probably more curveballs. - [Fundraising In Challenging Times: Tips For Success](https://www.douglasshaw.com/fundraising-in-challenging-times-tips-for-success/) - As a seasoned fundraiser yourself, I’m sure you know that your donors give because they are aligned with your shared mission. - [The Power of Donor Segmentation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-power-of-donor-segmentation/) - In fundraising, success isn’t just about casting a wide net. It takes precision—connecting with the right donors, with the right message, at the right time. - [The Resilience of Fundraising Amid Chaos](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-resilience-of-fundraising-amid-chaos/) - In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it is natural to hesitate and question your fundraising strategy. - [Be Human](https://www.douglasshaw.com/be-human/) - A few years ago, I was the new development director in a new town for a regional nonprofit organization, attempting to wrap my mind around a new area of human services: domestic violence. - [Inside the Issue: There is So Much Good in the World](https://www.douglasshaw.com/so-much-good-in-the-world/) - Those of us involved in philanthropy are privileged to see the generosity of the human heart on a daily basis Not everyone has this opportunity. - [A Life of Significance](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-life-of-significance/) - Each of us has found ourselves on our own journey through life. Even if we travel in the same direction as others, our journey is unique. - [Which Side Are You On?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/which-side-are-you-on/) - Each of us has found ourselves on our own journey through life. Even if we travel in the same direction as others, our journey is unique. - [A World in Turmoil Needs You Now More Than Ever!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-world-in-turmoil-needs-you/) - If there was ever a time when people of good will were needed, today would qualify as one of the most critical in history! - [Keeping Your Donor Bucket Full](https://www.douglasshaw.com/keeping-your-donor-bucket-full/) - Are you gaining enough donors to offset the ones you're losing? Every nonprofit organization, regardless of how large or small they are, needs to know the answer to this question. - [A Lifelong Donor](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-lifelong-donor/) - We've all probably given to a cause once and haven't repeated our gift since our initial donation. But you can create a better relationship with your donors that will encourage them to continue giving. How?... - [Upcoming Webinar: What Donor Acquisition Looks Like in 2022](https://www.douglasshaw.com/upcoming-webinar-what-donor-acquisition-looks-like-in-2022/) - Your organization may have benefited from a strong outpouring of new donor support over the past couple of years, but even if you haven’t, now is not the time to cut back on your donor acquisition program! - [A Fundraising Partnership That Gets RESULTS!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-fundraising-partnership-that-gets-results/) - When I started Douglas Shaw & Associates, I wanted to serve nonprofits that were looking for a partner, not a vendor. - [Inside This Issue: The Times They Are a-Changin'](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-the-times-they-are-a-changin/) - When Bob Dylan recorded this song in New York City on October 24, 1963, our world was in a state of social upheaval. - [Nimble, Agile And Quick to Respond...](https://www.douglasshaw.com/nimble-agile-and-quick-to-respond/) - The old saying the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry seems to be truer now than ever before. - [Are TV ads in Your Future?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/are-tv-ads-in-your-future/) - Traditional media (like radio and television) is often dismissed as a viable option for nonprofits to share their mission because of the cost and difficulty of targeting specific audiences. If that's your perspective, keep reading ... things have dramatically changed! - [Recruiting For Hard-to-Fill Positions](https://www.douglasshaw.com/recruiting-for-hard-to-fill-positions/) - Yes, you read that title correctly ... and no, we haven't added an additional line of service. But with so many nonprofits struggling to fill key staff roles, we want to share some of the success we have seen with a few of our client partners ... - [An Unexpected Surprise!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/an-unexpected-surprise/) - There are so many people in this world who are good, kind, and loving. - [ON EARTH PEACE](https://www.douglasshaw.com/on-earth-peace/) - There are so many people in this world who are good, kind, and loving. - [Inside this Issue: Who do we look like?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-who-do-we-look-like/) - There are so many people in this world who are good, kind, and loving. - [Inspire Your Data Team—Accomplish More Together!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inspire-your-data-team/) - There is a good chance the job description for any data team member role includes words like “diligent, conscientious, and eye for detail” . . . - [Never Underestimate the Power of Gratitude](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-power-of-gratitude/) - At my childhood birthday parties, my anxious fingers longed for that table of gifts. My mother, on the other hand, would usually be taking diligent notes: . . . - [What To Do When Your Cookie Crumbles](https://www.douglasshaw.com/when-your-cookie-crumbles/) - At the end of a crazy year—amid the big fundraising season—the last thing you probably want to hear about are major changes. - [Inside this Issue: Now is Your Time to Shine!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/now-is-your-time-to-shine/) - Lately, it feels like picking up the phone to call a company for customer service is a lifetime commitment. - [Creating Urgency in Digital Campaigns](https://www.douglasshaw.com/creating-urgency-in-digital-campaigns/) - Creating a sense of urgency in digital fundraising is an effective way to increase results, which can lead to a greater impact for your organization. But how? - [The Return on Investment of Building Donor Relationships](https://www.douglasshaw.com/building-donor-relationships/) - Recently, I was contacted by a guy who runs a fundraising company that raises money through sweepstakes. He was looking to run sweepstakes for the nonprofits we serve. - [In this Year of Growth: Prepare for December](https://www.douglasshaw.com/in-this-year-of-growth-prepare-for-december/) - Wow—what a year for online revenue! The past 12 months have seen most organizations receiving between 21%* and 32%** year-over-year revenue growth online. - [Inside this Issue: Learn to keep donors active, engaged, and excited about your organization](https://www.douglasshaw.com/keeping-donors/) - Maybe when historians look back on today, they’ll think of it as “The Summer of Hope!” - [Design for Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/design-for-results/) - Prettier isn’t always better. Design is more than just making your next direct response fundraising piece . . . - [What’s Next: Cryptocurrency and Nonprofits](https://www.douglasshaw.com/cryptocurrency-and-nonprofits/) - In a recent meeting with a nonprofit we serve, a question came up: Should we be accepting cryptocurrencies on our website? - [Will You Retain Donors Motivated by COVID-19?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/will-you-retain-donors-motivated-by-covid-19/) - It’s pretty clear that new COVID-motivated donors aren’t behaving like disaster donors — - [Independence from What?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/independence-from-what/) - As we make our plans to celebrate Independence Day this year, it means so much more to me than any other year in my life. That’s a bold statement, I realize, but I believe it to be true! - [Life Among the Ashes](https://www.douglasshaw.com/life-among-the-ashes/) - For a while, when I was in middle-school, I had the good fortune of living on a 1,200-acre ranch in central Washington State. We lived on the last ranch outside of a small cow town in the foothills of the Stewart Mountain range. - [Inside this Issue: Looking Ahead: The Remainder of 2021](https://www.douglasshaw.com/looking-ahead-the-remainder-of-2021/) - The front cover of this issue pretty well sums up cross-country . . . - [Getting Your Message Opened](https://www.douglasshaw.com/getting-your-message-opened/) - The difference between a message that is read and one put directly in the trash is simple . . . - [Debunking Direct Response Myths](https://www.douglasshaw.com/debunking-direct-response-myths/) - Direct response fundraising is often misunderstood, even within the organizations that rely on . . . - [Mid-Year Checkpoint](https://www.douglasshaw.com/mid-year-checkpoint/) - We’re coming up on the halfway point of 2021, which means now is the time to perform a mid-year check-in with . . . - [Inside this Issue: YOU ARE NEEDED MORE THAN EVER!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-you-are-needed-more-than-ever/) - I was sitting at our dining room table when the notification . . . - [Direct Mail’s Roaring Success](https://www.douglasshaw.com/direct-mails-roaring-success/) - There have long been (unsubstantiated) rumors of the demise of direct mail. - [Is Your Case for Support Attracting (Or Repelling) Donors?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/is-your-case-for-support-attracting-or-repelling-donors/) - A new year presents the opportunity to put fresh eyes on how well you’re engaging your donors and connecting them to the impact their gifts are making. - [How to Measure Donor Health](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-to-measure-donor-health/) - You’ve heard a lot about data. You’ve heard repeatedly about the importance of capturing constituent data on behalf of your organization. - [Inside this Issue: If We Ever Needed a New Year . . . it’s now!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-if-we-ever-needed-a-new-year-its-now/) - Perhaps this will be the year when our world will begin to heal . . . - [Creating an Effective Donor Impact Report](https://www.douglasshaw.com/effective-donor-impact/) - One of the main reasons donors (both new and existing) fail to give again is because they don’t know what you did with their first gift. - [5 Improvements to Your 2021 Fundraising Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/5-improvements/) - A new year presents the opportunity to put fresh eyes on how well you’re engaging your donors and connecting them to the impact their gifts are making. - [Measuring COVID-19 Impacts](https://www.douglasshaw.com/measuring/) - COVID-19 has affected all of us profoundly. It changed the way we serve the public, interact with coworkers, and even the way we fundraise. - [A Family Christmas](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-family-christmas/) - Of course, I’ve enjoyed being with my family more this year—at times, all day, every day, for weeks at a stretch! But I miss the ongoing personal interaction with what I consider my “extended family” of friends, colleagues, clients, and others who normally fill up our days— - [The Power of Christmas](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-power-of-christmas/) - My wife, Kathryn, and I have been watching every Christmas movie we can find during these evenings between Thanksgiving and Christmas. So many great movies were made just following World War II. - [Inside this Issue: There's Still Time to Make an Impact in 2020!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-theres-still-time-to-make-an-impact-in-2020/) - You and I have something in common with every other human being on earth…no matter where we look, people are adjusting their lives to withstand the pandemic of COVID-19. - [Three Ways to Increase Year-End Online Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/three-ways-to-increase-year-end-online-giving/) - For most organizations, the month of December brings in about 30-40% of their annual online giving. It probably doesn’t surprise you to hear that the last week of the year. . . - [Finishing the Year Strong](https://www.douglasshaw.com/finishing-the-year-strong/) - On January 1st, 2020, many of us launched our vision for a new decade for the nonprofits we serve. We rolled out ambitious program goals and . . . - [Understanding Donor Potential](https://www.douglasshaw.com/understanding-donor-potential/) - Chances are at some point in your fundraising career, you will question your communication plan for “major donors.” - [Is Your Donation Form Driving Away Donors?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/is-your-donation-form-driving-away-donors/) - As a steward of the fundraising responsibility for your organization, one of your most critical responsibilities is inviting new supporters to be involved in accomplishing your mission! And not just for today, but people who will continue to support your organization for years to come. - [Inside this Issue: There's Still Time to Boost Your Year-End Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-theres-still-time-to-boost-your-year-end-fundraising/) - On the 22nd of this month, we’re officially beginning the fall season! What will this traditional time of generous giving hold for you and your. . . - [Three Keys to Getting a Second Gift](https://www.douglasshaw.com/three-keys-to-getting-a-second-gift/) - A while back, an organization came to Douglas Shaw & Associates for help in growing their donor file and the resulting income. This organization was. . . - [Raising More When It Matters Most](https://www.douglasshaw.com/raising-more-when-it-matters-most/) - The end of the year is the most critical fundraising season—particularly when you’re talking about online fundraising. And, believe it or not. . . - [The Great GivingTuesday Debate](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-great-givingtuesday-debate/) - “Should my organization participate in GivingTuesday?” It’s a question I hear all the time. When you’re talking to strategists on this topic. . . - [Inside this Issue: Thriving During and Beyond the Pandemic](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-thriving-during-and-beyond-the-pandemic/) - For many nonprofit organizations, the fall season is considered donor acquisition time. But let’s take a closer look… - [5 Tips for Raising Funds Using a Survey](https://www.douglasshaw.com/5-tips-for-raising-funds-using-a-survey/) - For many nonprofit organizations, the fall season is considered donor acquisition time. But let’s take a closer look… - [Creating Custom Communications that Work](https://www.douglasshaw.com/creating-custom-communications-that-work/) - For many nonprofit organizations, the fall season is considered donor acquisition time. But let’s take a closer look… - [Pandemics, The Election, and Your Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/pandemics-the-election-and-your-fundraising/) - For many nonprofit organizations, the fall season is considered donor acquisition time. But let’s take a closer look… - [Three Frequently Asked Questions on Testing](https://www.douglasshaw.com/three-frequently-asked-questions-on-testing/) - As a steward of the fundraising responsibility for your organization, one of your most critical responsibilities is inviting new supporters to be involved in accomplishing your mission! And not just for today, but people who will continue to support your organization for years to come. - [Fundraising in the Time of COVID-19](https://www.douglasshaw.com/fundraising-in-the-time-of-covid-19/) - As a steward of the fundraising responsibility for your organization, one of your most critical responsibilities is inviting new supporters to be involved in accomplishing your mission! And not just for today, but people who will continue to support your organization for years to come. - [Inside this Issue: Fundraising in the Time of COVID-19](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-april-2020/) - For many nonprofit organizations, the fall season is considered donor acquisition time. But let’s take a closer look… - [Good News for All](https://www.douglasshaw.com/good-news-for-all/) - Just before Thanksgiving, 25 years ago, my family’s dining room table became more than a place for a holiday meal. It provided the platform for millions of meals, as my father started Douglas Shaw & Associates right then and there, going on to serve alongside dozens of compassionate organizations and ministries worldwide. - [Inside this Issue Plan for 2020 Donor Acquisition Fundraising Now](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-feb-2020/) - For many nonprofit organizations, the fall season is considered donor acquisition time. But let’s take a closer look… - [Top 5 Ways to Start Your Fundraising Year Off GREAT](https://www.douglasshaw.com/top-5-ways-to-start-your-fundraising-year/) - If you listed the top five ways your organization could start the year off strong, what would make the cut? Perhaps it’s staying ahead of the latest trends, having a solid strategic plan, or effectively utilizing data and analysis. But there’s one thing even more important than all of the above—your donors. - [Help your organization achieve: RESULTS!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/help-your-organization-achieve-results/) - Here we are in December already. And winter is actually upon us! For those of us engaged in fundraising, we’re about to fold up the chairs of 2019 and get the room ready for 2020. If facing the new year feels like the sun has stopped... - [Keys to Building a Monthly Donor Program](https://www.douglasshaw.com/keys-to-building-a-monthly-donor-program/) - Foundations matter. And the best time to fix a faulty foundation is before you start building on it. When it comes to building a monthly donor program (aka a sustainer program), this is especially important because all your assumptions will get cemented into the foundation of its structure. - [We are Thankful](https://www.douglasshaw.com/we-are-thankful-3/) - Just before Thanksgiving, 25 years ago, my family’s dining room table became more than a place for a holiday meal. It provided the platform for millions of meals, as my father started Douglas Shaw & Associates right then and there, going on to serve alongside dozens of compassionate organizations and ministries worldwide. - [Before you send out that RFP](https://www.douglasshaw.com/before-you-send-out-that-rfp/) - Your donor relationships are your treasured possession. Every interaction they have with you must reinforce that their generosity is making a life-changing difference. The voice and cadence of asking and thanking; the clarity of how their gift will make an impact; and the compelling reason to give now must ring true through every message on every channel. - [Inside this Issue Celebrating 25 Years Of Service](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-this-issue-celebrating-25-years/) - This is a rather emotional column for me to write. On October 24th 1994, twenty-five years ago, I sat down in my dining room and began Douglas Shaw & Associates. I remember well both the excitement and the fear! Excitement, stemming from all of the opportunities... - [Celebrating 25 Years Of Service What Is Right With The World](https://www.douglasshaw.com/celebrating-25-years/) - Founder and CEO, Doug Shaw, spent years working at agencies whose clients, over time, had one common message for him: start your own company. Little did he realize that hearing those simple yet encouraging words from faithful clients 25 years ago would be the catalyst to Douglas Shaw & Associates. - [Unexpected Gifts at Year-End? Yes, Please!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/unexpected-year-end-gifts/) - Thirty percent of annual giving occurs in December when everyone’s philanthropic tendencies begin to kick into high gear. This makes it a fantastic time of year to reach beyond your new and active donors, and reengage those lapsed donors as well. But don’t stop there! This is also the perfect time to communicate with your - [What You Need to Know: Nonprofit Texting](https://www.douglasshaw.com/nonprofit-texting/) - As mailboxes, inboxes, and social feeds get more complex and crowded, there’s one platform out there that stands alone with a 95% open rate—text messages. Their unique ability to get a message right in front of your donors raises huge potential... - [Going Where the Donors Are: Digital Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/going-where-donors-are/) - As fundraisers, the reality of finding your potential donors is complicated. But there are still ways to identify the best potential donors and get a message in front of them wherever they happen to be. This is one of my favorite things about working in digital. - [Inside this Issue](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-giving-season/) - As fundraisers, the reality of finding your potential donors is complicated. But there are still ways to identify the best potential donors and get a message in front of them wherever they happen to be. This is one of my favorite things about working in digital. - [Ask Wiley: Welcoming New Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcoming-new-donors/) - New donors are a vital part of any fundraising plan. And you have spent your valuable time and dollars finding people who not only agree with your cause but want to fund it. So, don’t throw away all that effort by failing to connect with these new people right away. - [Are You Ready for the 4th Quarter?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ready-for-the-giving-season/) - As fundraisers, the reality of finding your potential donors is complicated. But there are still ways to identify the best potential donors and get a message in front of them wherever they happen to be. This is one of my favorite things about working in digital. - [Receipting: Gift Acknowledgement](https://www.douglasshaw.com/receipting-gift-acknowledgement/) - As fundraisers, the reality of finding your potential donors is complicated. But there are still ways to identify the best potential donors and get a message in front of them wherever they happen to be. This is one of my favorite things about working in digital. - [THE TESTING ISSUE](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-testing-issue-donor-focused-communication/) - A lot of time and energy is being spent on “what to do” with “the Millennials.” There are seminars, articles, and blogs each addressing this group of people as though they were some kind of aberration. They actually remind me of me! I’m a “child of the 60s” one of those long-haired, lazy hippie-types who were bringing America down. But the strange thing is, I was never a hippie, never had really long hair (I think Jimmy Carter’s hair was actually longer than mine), and I had three jobs just to get through high school. I didn’t have time to do anything with America except work, vote, and pay taxes! - [Does Tax Deductibility Really Motivate Giving?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/does-tax-deductibility-really-motivate-giving/) - You have probably already realized that building long-term sustainability starts with mobilizing support for the vision of your organization. That includes connecting existing financial supporters, as well as reengaging lapsed donors. - [TESTING is always a good idea . . . until it isn’t](https://www.douglasshaw.com/testing-is-always-a-good-idea-until-it-isnt/) - In the busyness and constant activity of life, it’s all too easy for matters that are truly important to slip by the wayside. With this in mind, when you contemplate how best to reconnect with donors who haven’t given to your organization in a while—consider serving them with a friendly reminder. - [The 2019 Digital Fundraising Landscape](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-2019-digital-fundraising-landscape/) - If you are comparing online donations and email send dates you are probably noticing an interesting trend—the two are intricately tied together. Email is your online fundraising backbone—accounting for around 26 percent of online revenue at most organizations. However, the size of your email file has a direct relationship with your ability to fundraise on this channel. For every 1,000 fundraising messages sent, organizations typically receive $42 back in donations.* - [How to Reach Donors from Every Generation!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-to-reach-donors-from-every-generation/) - A lot of time and energy is being spent on “what to do” with “the Millennials.” There are seminars, articles, and blogs each addressing this group of people as though they were some kind of aberration. They actually remind me of me! I’m a “child of the 60s” one of those long-haired, lazy hippie-types who were bringing America down. But the strange thing is, I was never a hippie, never had really long hair (I think Jimmy Carter’s hair was actually longer than mine), and I had three jobs just to get through high school. I didn’t have time to do anything with America except work, vote, and pay taxes! - [The Importance of Multi-Generational Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-importance-of-multi-generational-fundraising/) - Three different perspectives written by contributors from three different generations. We examine the impact that Millennials, Generation Xers, and Baby Boomers have had on fundraising, and how to best target them in your direct response communications. - [The Backbone of Online Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-backbone-of-online-fundraising/) - If you are comparing online donations and email send dates you are probably noticing an interesting trend—the two are intricately tied together. Email is your online fundraising backbone—accounting for around 26 percent of online revenue at most organizations. However, the size of your email file has a direct relationship with your ability to fundraise on this channel. For every 1,000 fundraising messages sent, organizations typically receive $42 back in donations.* - [3 Factors for Donor Acquisition Success in 2019](https://www.douglasshaw.com/3-factors-for-donor-acquisition-success-in-2019/) - You have probably already realized that building long-term sustainability starts with mobilizing support for the vision of your organization. That includes connecting existing financial supporters, as well as reengaging lapsed donors. - [Ask This Question To Improve Your Fundraising Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ask-this-question-to-improve-your-fundraising-results/) - Are you taking your first steps toward establishing your 2019 fundraising goals? Your success can likely be found in your data and more importantly, what it might be telling you. It’s easy to get tangled in the weeds when analyzing your data, so we suggest that you start with a high-level look at your results, then ask yourself, “why?” - [Coming Soon to an Event Near You!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/upcoming-events-spring-2019/) - Douglas Shaw & Associates has a long history of participating at industry conferences and events across the country. Our goal is to support others who are making a difference in the world, and be readily available to provide inspired fundraising counsel to your organization. - [Three Monthly Donor Pitfalls . . . and How to Avoid Them](https://www.douglasshaw.com/three-monthly-donor-pitfalls-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - It can feel like a Holy Grail of sorts, but it’s no legend. A successful monthly donor program is within the grasp of any nonprofit, as long as it is set up properly to avoid several common pitfalls. - [The Latest in Donor Focus](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-latest-in-donor-focus/) - As fundraisers, we celebrate the generosity of those who have continued to stand with us, and the new supporters who’ve just trusted us with a first-time gift. In this issue of Donor Focus you’ll find more helpful ways to care for those who stand with you in supporting your mission. - [CEO Expectations of a Director of Development](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ceo-expectations-of-a-director-of-development/) - Did you know the national average for a director of development’s tenure with a nonprofit is only 18 months? Why would such a critical hire have... - [How to Maximize Your Annual Tax Statement Mailing](https://www.douglasshaw.com/maximize-annual-tax-statements/) - Before you know it, Christmas will be over for another year and New Year’s resolutions will be made, yet hopefully not broken. For those of us in direct response fundraising, this change of seasons means that it’s time to mail annual tax statements. - [Learning Lessons From This Year—How analyzing your data can bring better results in 2019](https://www.douglasshaw.com/learning-lessons-from-this-year/) - As you close the books on 2018, now is the time to review your donor file trends and gather information you need to improve your fundraising in 2019. - [Looking Ahead: Essential Components for Your Digital Donor Welcome Series—Strengthening the connection before you are forgotten](https://www.douglasshaw.com/digital-welcome-series/) - As you look ahead into the new year, it is important that you take a few minutes to review your process for engaging with supporters who have recently entrusted you with their email address. - [Do You Have the Right Strategies for the Season Ahead?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/year-end-2018/) - In this issue of Donor Focus, we’ll be addressing best practices for increasing your organization’s income in 2019; how to look ahead at the Essential Components for your Digital Welcome Series for newly acquired online donors. Together, we’ll see how to Learn Lessons from This Year in order to apply them to next year - [Using Gratitude to Boost Donor Retention](https://www.douglasshaw.com/boost-donor-retention/) - There is a science behind why donors give to charities and nonprofits, and it’s a behavior that can be directly influenced by what we, as fundraisers, communicate. Here are three ways that you can influence your donor’s giving patterns and potentially increase retention rates... - [The Top 3 Tactics for a Successful Year-End](https://www.douglasshaw.com/top-3-tactics-for-a-successful-year-end/) - Did you know that many organizations, maybe just like yours, raise a staggering 25% of their annual budget in the month of December alone? - [Why the Little Things Often Make the BIGGEST Difference](https://www.douglasshaw.com/fall-fundraising-season/) - It’s fall! The most blessed of all fundraising seasons is upon us! As a fundraiser, my adrenaline levels naturally increase this time of year. We get to see if all of our well-laid plans will yield the harvest we’ve so carefully planted and watered during the year. - [Getting Lost in Service](https://www.douglasshaw.com/getting-lost-in-service/) - When was the last time you lost yourself in service to others? Last week? Last month? Maybe a couple of years ago. For me, it wasn’t too long ago. Every summer for the last nine years, I have packed my things and spent a week of vacation on the shores of Lake Geneva in Wisconsin at Camp One Step; a summer camp for children and youth with cancer. - [Making a Difference Together](https://www.douglasshaw.com/making-a-difference-together/) - Partnerships must be built on a foundation of trust. Be it a relationship between you and those you serve, your donors or an agency like ours, trust is what will define you and your success. - [Four Things to Consider When Choosing Your Next CRM Platform](https://www.douglasshaw.com/crm-platform/) - Selecting a new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform is a critically important task and one that can have various levels of complexity. There is a large amount of information to be learned and implemented, and considerations should be given to how the platform impacts the growth of your organization. - [How to Maximize Your Annual Tax Statement Mailing](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-to-maximize-annual-tax-statements/) - Before you know it, Christmas will be over for another year and New Year’s resolutions will be made, yet hopefully not broken. For those of us in direct response fundraising, this change of seasons means that it’s time to mail annual tax statements. - [WARNING: This Is Your Last Issue](https://www.douglasshaw.com/why-this-strategy-works/) - In the busyness and constant activity of life, it’s all too easy for matters that are truly important to slip by the wayside. With this in mind, when you contemplate how best to reconnect with donors who haven’t given to your organization in a while—consider serving them with a friendly reminder. - [It’s Like Velcro . . .Multi-Channel Strategies and Why They Matter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/multi-channel-strategies/) - Fundraising (and marketing in general) boils down to communicating a compelling need in simple terms with a clear call to action. And while not every communication channel is equally effective, the same ingredients are critical. See how to make your fall fundraising work across all channels - [Going Beyond Digital Engagement](https://www.douglasshaw.com/beyond-digital-engagement/) - An excellent pool of passionate supporters who don’t sign up for email communications, don’t sign advocacy pledges, and aren’t becoming financial donors is a fundraising dead-end. That’s why Amy Sewell, our Director of Digital Solutions, goes to work BEYOND engagement and gets to the heart of conversion. - [Maximize Your Multi-Channel Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-multi-channel-fundraising/) - It’s not just the weather that’s hot: fundraisers like you and me are in the midst of sweating the details of finalizing our fall fundraising plans. That’s why there’s no better time to look at insights to make your holiday season efforts more joyful and successful! - [Why do your donors support you?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/why-donors-support-organizations/) - When you’re constructing a reason for your donors to give to your organization, it often comes down to a simple question: “Why does your organization need the money?” The answer to this question will be discovered when you identify what you and your donors are both passionate about making happen. - [The 5 “P”s to Newsletter Performance](https://www.douglasshaw.com/newsletter-performance/) - Direct response strategies are often structured around moments in time: holidays, emergencies, infrastructure needs, or when you pay your bills. As soon as our donors break the seal on that carrier envelope, it’s just a matter of time until the appeal is out of mind. But your newsletter shouldn’t be that way. - [Don’t Guess—Find Out What Works](https://www.douglasshaw.com/dont-guess/) - Whether you are looking to improve results on your direct response program or turn a downward spiral around, effective and affordable testing is your organization’s best friend. It can improve how you tell your stories and connect with donors—and can grow fundraising results exponentially. - [The Power of Your Organizational Story](https://www.douglasshaw.com/power-organizational-story/) - Your own organizational story is one of the most important things about you: it defines and refines you, and it’s as up-close-and-personal as it gets. - [Inside this Issue: Get Creative with Your Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-get-creative-fundraising/) - It’s June already! Good grief! The year’s almost half over!!! For fundraisers you know what this means? It’s time to get ready for your all-important Fall Campaign. I’m sure you know that many, if not most nonprofit organizations receive 50-60% of their annual income during Q4. - [Stop and look around once in a while](https://www.douglasshaw.com/stop-and-look-around-once-in-a-while/) - Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. My recent visit with a Rescue Mission reminded me of the importance of following through on Ferris’s words. - [Summer Slump? Try an Integrated Campaign!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/summer-slump/) - We often hear clients use the words “Summer Slump,” a term they use to describe what can be a difficult time of year to fundraise successfully. With school out, people on vacation, and good weather, donors can be distracted, and supporting your organization’s cause may not always be top of mind. But summer doesn’t have to be a time when you’re barely meeting your budget. - [It’s A Good Time To Get Your Donors Back](https://www.douglasshaw.com/get-lapsed-donors-back/) - If it’s been a while since Sally A. Sample sent you a financial gift, don’t assume she’s forgotten about you altogether. Sally is what you call a lapsed donor, and the potentially quieter summer months ahead of us might be a good time to start figuring out how to get those lapsed donors back. Generally speaking, lapsed donors haven’t made a financial gift of any kind in more than 12 months. - [Prepare Your Data For Summer Success](https://www.douglasshaw.com/data-summer-success/) - As you approach the summer months, traditionally a season of reduced giving, get ahead of the curve and make sure your data is performing the way it should be. - [Rule #7: The Only Thing That Matters Is, "Does It Work?"](https://www.douglasshaw.com/quality-development-program/) - Building a quality development program can take several years to complete. I’ve found that it doesn’t come overnight and there are few shortcuts, if any. Mostly it’s learning the tricks of the trade, using the right tools, and serving in the apprenticeship of time. It also requires having the ability to see the potential of something that perhaps others can’t see. - [Keep Your Major Donor Relationships Sizzling](https://www.douglasshaw.com/major-donor-relationships/) - Your mid-major donors responded very well at calendar year-end, as well as the first few months of 2018. But what should you do to keep them from cutting back during the very critical summer months? The answer is to give them special treatment now, so they feel really appreciated and that they are a critical part of your ministry. Even though mid-major donors can be classified differently from organization to organization, they should all be treated in the same way. Your extra effort will keep your ministry “top of mind” as you move into the summer months and encourage them to continue giving. - [Inside this issue: How to Grow Your Summer Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-issue-summer-fundraising/) - In this issue of Donor Focus we will be considering why this is exactly the right time of year to be finalizing your summer fundraising strategies . . . while you still have time - [Why I #Proclaim18](https://www.douglasshaw.com/why-i-proclaim18/) - While the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) conference has changed over the past 30 years (that’s how long I’ve been attending), one benefit has remained consistent . . . - [Acquiring Donors in Multiple Ways](https://www.douglasshaw.com/acquiring-donors-multiple-ways/) - Gone are the days when a successful growth strategy can rely solely on acquiring new donors through a single channel, like direct mail or radio or television. Now potential donors are consuming information multiple ways and your organization needs to be present in the places they spend their time. - [Welcome Your New Donors Right](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-new-donors-right/) - Not too long ago, I saw a deeply touching Facebook post about a humanitarian crisis. It featured a heartbreaking story and what a certain organization was doing to help those in need. I immediately clicked the “Donate” button and made a gift. Within minutes I had a receipt in my inbox and then . . . - [Inside this Issue: Donor Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-issue-donor-acquisition/) - This issue of Donor Focus is filled with inspired strategies to help you maximize your relationships with all of the new donors you’ve just acquired during the last quarter of 2017. - [All New Donors Aren’t Created Equal](https://www.douglasshaw.com/new-donors-arent-created-equal/) - Donor acquisition is the lifeblood of every organization, but not all new donors are created equal. It can be a temptation to look at the results of an initial acquisition effort as the only metric for success, but acquiring new donors that give only one time will not build capacity for the future. - [It’s Not a Relationship Without a Second Gift](https://www.douglasshaw.com/not-relationship-without-second-gift/) - If your acquisition campaign went according to plan, you should have a lot of new and potentially profitable donors added to your file. Congratulations, now what do you do? If you’ve invested the time and money on acquiring a new donor, it’s vitally important that you don’t neglect them because the future of that relationship depends on what you do next. - [Emergency Response: There is No Time To Lose!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/emergency-response-no-time-lose/) - Just days after Hurricane Harvey ripped through Texas and Louisiana, I was sitting in a session at the DMA Nonprofit Federation convention... - [Inside this Issue: Closing the Gap](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-issue-closing-gap/) - You may have already ended your fiscal year, but in Judeo-Christian cultures we are clearly on the doorstep to “the giving season.” That is why this issue of Donor Focus is committed to helping you finish the calendar year well. - [Execute the Perfect Money Bomb!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/execute-perfect-money-bomb/) - The end of the year is so close, you can almost smell the burnt debris from the fireworks and you’re still sweeping up the confetti. But it’s not so close that you don’t have enough time to drop the perfect Money Bomb. - [Setting Your Sights on Facebook](https://www.douglasshaw.com/setting-sights-facebook/) - Did you know that you can put a message in front of the same donors online that you are reaching through direct mail? - [“It’s the end of the year and we’re behind budget—what can we do?”](https://www.douglasshaw.com/end-year-behind-budget-can/) - It looks like you’re not going to meet the year-end budget. Don’t let the panic consume you, the tools for a successful year-end campaign are available. - [Major Donors Love to Give at Year-End!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/major-donors-love-give-year-end/) - Here’s a great opportunity for you to significantly boost your income before the calendar changes to January 2018. It is relatively inexpensive for the amount of money it raises and ANYBODY can do it. - [RULE #39: Speed counts!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rule-39-speed-counts/) - This rule is one that I actually enjoy. Anybody who really knows me wouldn’t be surprised by this at all. I’m always in a hurry! If I could, I’d have everything done yesterday! - [Pick Up the Phone: Year-End Fundraising Strategy that Just Works](https://www.douglasshaw.com/pick-phone-year-end-fundraising-strategy-just-works/) - Outbound telemarketing must be considered as a key part of your strategy. Yes, some say it no longer works, but that’s not true. Properly executed, telemarketing not only generates significant net revenue... - [The Optimization Effect](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-optimization-effect/) - Whether or not you realize it, your online donation forms are full of “friction”—and it’s costing your organization money. - [Consistency is Key (Especially at this Time of Year)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/consistency-key-especially-time-year/) - There’s a lot of money being invested in branding by ministries today. While research will reveal who your audience thinks you are, the impact a ministry can have on their brand through consistent, multi-channel communication strategies is often overlooked. - [There's Still Time to Make an Impact!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/theres-still-time-make-impact/) - The planning that goes into your year-end fundraising is among the most critical of the entire year. And the good news is, right now, there’s still time to make an impact! - [One Day to Rule them All](https://www.douglasshaw.com/one-day-rule/) - You are feverishly planning for Thanksgiving and Christmas fundraising campaigns, but neither of those holidays come close to the most important fundraising day of the year. - [Inside the Issue: There's Still Time](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-issue-theres-still-time/) - There is still time to positively impact your donated income by the stroke of midnight on December 31! - [Announcing: Two New Senior Vice Presidents](https://www.douglasshaw.com/announcing-two-new-senior-vice-presidents/) - It’s our great pleasure to announce two new SVP’s leading our client services team: Keith Cleghorn and Christa Huff! - [Donor Acquisition: The Cold Call of Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-acquisition-cold-call-fundraising/) - During acquisition season you’re not talking to your donors, you’re talking to people who know little to nothing about you. Within the few seconds you have their attention... - [It’s time to acquire better donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/time-acquire-better-donors/) - There can be a false sense of security on the part of many ministries about the growth of their donor file. - [Newsflash: This isn’t about you](https://www.douglasshaw.com/newsflash-this-isnt-about-you/) - When it comes to acquisition it’s not about us—it’s about what the donor responds to. Learn more in today’s installment to our donor acquisition video series from Doug Shaw. - [How Many Donors Do you Need?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/many-donors-need/) - The latest video in our donor acquisition series tackles one of the foundational questions for your acquisition season. Properly answering this question helps ensure that you’re not only responding to the leaks in your ship—you’re planning for growth. - [Rule #60: An Effective Chief Development Officer is a Gift to the Spirit](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rule60/) - When I first met her, she was sitting in the office of the CEO. The ministry headquarters was housed in an old apartment building. Not much to look at, the apartments had been converted into offices - [Partners in the World of Changing Lives](https://www.douglasshaw.com/partners-world-changing-lives/) - Confession time: Some days, usually after hours of spreadsheets and PowerPoint, I wonder whether my days would be better spent working for a ministry. After all, they’re the ones doing the real work. - [RULE #48: Talk to your donors, not about yourself](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rule-48-talk-donors-not/) - The good news is there is a way to cut through all the noise and involve donors and prospective donors in the ministry you serve. - [4 Tips To Better Project Management](https://www.douglasshaw.com/4-tips-better-project-management/) - I’ve decided to give you my 4 Tips To Better Project Management. It is meant to be a light refreshment to rejuvenate your project management style. - [Navigating the Digital Landscape](https://www.douglasshaw.com/navigating-digital-landscape/) - Your digital channel is an essential tool for turning prospects into new donors, cementing that relationship, and inspiring the all-important next gift. Done well, your organization can turn its digital footprint into a system to support and enable your organization’s long-term growth. - [Rule #59: An Ineffective Chief Development Officer Drains the Life Out of Your Ministry](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rule-59-ineffective-chief-development-officer-drains-life-ministry/) - During my tenure in the great halls of philanthropy, I’ve encountered many other situations that were quite disarming and disappointing. In each case the Chief Development Officer stood at the center of the dysfunction. - [More Reasons Your Communication Ends Up in the Trash](https://www.douglasshaw.com/reasons-communications-ends-trash/) - Once you’ve identified the right people to get your communications, the real challenge is to get your donor or prospect to open the envelope or read the email. You need to break through the clutter. - [The Number 1 Reason Why Your Communications End Up in the Trash](https://www.douglasshaw.com/communications-end-trash/) - For years, I’ve heard people (even those in the direct response business) say that they open their mail over the trash can so they can rid themselves of the dreaded junk mail. And in the digital world it’s even easier to be ignored. - [To Grow Or Not To Grow](https://www.douglasshaw.com/grow-not-grow/) - Want to increase your organization's revenue? Start two years ago. That's how long it takes to realize the benefits of donor acquisition. - [A Dig Into the Details](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-focus-dig-details/) - In this issue of Donor Focus you’ll find some pretty interesting stuff to help you with your direct response fundraising. - [The Power in Creating Connections](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-power-in-creating-connections/) - A Letter from Douglas Shaw Chairman of the Board/CEO Dear Colleague in Ministry, Perhaps you and I share some of the same angst as we consider all of the challenges of staying on top of the latest best practices. - [Weighing in at 600% Direct Mail is Still the Heavyweight Champion](https://www.douglasshaw.com/weighing-in-at-600-direct-mail-is-still-the-heavyweight-champion/) - Recently the Data Marketing Association (DMA) reported that mail outperformed all digital channels by nearly 600 percent. This industry watchdog measures and represents all channels of direct response... - [Rule #51: Small Donors Can Cost You Money](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rule-51-small-donors-can-cost-you-money/) - There can be a false sense of comfort on the part of many ministries about the size of their donor file. This will be a message about the need for judicious segmentation, careful planning for upgrade strategies, and the. - [Taking Time Out: The Power of Effective Time Management for Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/taking-time-out-the-power-of-effective-time-management/) - Rarely do our passionate pursuits align with our professional ones. If you happened to have discovered this elusive secret, count yourself among... - [Answering the Eternal Question: Why?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/answering-the-eternal-question-why/) - 2016 Value Proposition Index Study just released by Douglas Shaw & Associates and NextAfter answers this age-old question through qualitative and... - [CARE Australia Taps Douglas Shaw & Associates for Digital Services](https://www.douglasshaw.com/care-australia-taps-douglas-shaw-associates-for-digital-services/) - "We’re delighted to be working with CARE Australia and supporting their mission,” said Doug Shaw, Chairman and CEO of Douglas Shaw & Associates... - [Douglas Shaw & Associates Launches New Website](https://www.douglasshaw.com/douglas-shaw-associates-launches-new-website/) - Douglas Shaw & Associates, a recognized leader in multi-channel fundraising for ministries and nonprofits, launched... - [The AGRM 2015 Convention](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-agrm-2015-convention/) - It's been a great week at the 2015 AGRM Convention! We have enjoyed getting to talk with many of you and hearing about the great work you're doing. Please feel free to reach out to us in the coming weeks if you think of additional questions or would like to hear more about how we - [Targeted Digital Marketing](https://www.douglasshaw.com/digital-marketing/) - The best approach to connecting your organization with potential donors is one that uses multiple channels to meet people where they are and... - [Understanding Fundraising Trends: Navigating the Ups and Downs](https://www.douglasshaw.com/understanding-fundraising-trends/) - Many organizations are experiencing lower giving in 2022 than at any time in the past three years. Almost everyone we talk to is experiencing lower results this year, and they want to know “Why is giving down?” - [Rebuilding Meaningful Relationships](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rebuilding-meaningful-relationships/) - Many organizations are experiencing lower giving in 2022 than at any time in the past three years. Almost everyone we talk to is experiencing lower results this year, and they want to know “Why is giving down?” - [Leveraging Technology to Reactivate and Retain Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/leveraging-technology-to-reactivate-and-retain-donors/) - Many organizations are experiencing lower giving in 2022 than at any time in the past three years. Almost everyone we talk to is experiencing lower results this year, and they want to know “Why is giving down?” - [Inside the Issue: Reconnect with Lapsed Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-the-issue-reconnect-with-lapsed-donors/) - Many organizations are experiencing lower giving in 2022 than at any time in the past three years. Almost everyone we talk to is experiencing lower results this year, and they want to know “Why is giving down?” - [More Than Just Work](https://www.douglasshaw.com/more-than-just-work-2/) - As a young Christian professional navigating the conundrum of aligning my beliefs into a purposeful career, I’ve been blessed to find a home at Douglas Shaw & Associates. Like many of us, I’m eager to play a role that leaves a positive mark on the world, reaching beyond just my own life and making a difference for the kingdom of God. However, my journey as of late has been particularly meaningful as I prepare to embrace a new role—motherhood. - [Riding the Wave](https://www.douglasshaw.com/riding-the-wave/) - In the world of fundraising and charitable giving, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the current challenges. - [Shifting Donor Behavior](https://www.douglasshaw.com/shifting-donor-behavior/) - As donors navigate a changing world—new technologies, a challenging economic climate, and demographic shifts—we can keep in step with them by paying attention to changes in their behavior and priorities. - [Monitor Your Metrics](https://www.douglasshaw.com/monitor-your-metrics/) - Tracking is one of the key elements to achieving success in a digital acquisition campaign. - [Unlocking Donor Insights](https://www.douglasshaw.com/unlocking-donor-insights/) - Incorporating AI and data analytics into fundraising efforts is more than just a strategy; it’s a pathway to building lasting donor relationships. - [The Value of Reporting](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-value-of-reporting/) - Your donor data is invaluable, and your database contains critical information about your supporters—their giving history, preferred communication channels, and responsiveness to various appeals. - [Celebrating Thirty Years](https://www.douglasshaw.com/celebrating-thirty-years/) - Here at Douglas Shaw & Associates, we’ve learned that guessing about critical fundraising information is a sure-fire formula for poor decision-making. - [June 19, 1865, 246 Years of Slavery in America Comes to an End!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/246-years-of-slavery-in-america-comes-to-an-end/) - Throughout my fundraising career, I have been asked by just about everyone, “What effect do you think the election will have on our giving this year?” - [INSPIRING TEAMS FOR PURPOSE-DRIVEN IMPACT](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inspiring-teams-for-purpose-driven-impact/) - The fundraising world is fast paced. It’s ever-evolving as means and methods for donor communications and engagements change. - [8 STRATEGIES FOR FUNDRAISING IN AN ELECTION YEAR](https://www.douglasshaw.com/8-strategies-for-fundraising-in-a-election-year/) - As we look at the year ahead, one of the questions that gets asked over and over is “How will the upcoming election affect my fundraising?’ - [IT'S AN ELECTION YEAR . . . FIRST, DO NO HARM!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-an-election-year/) - Throughout my fundraising career, I have been asked by just about everyone, “What effect do you think the election will have on our giving this year?” - [A GUIDE TO CREATING A FUNDABLE OFFER](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-guide-to-creating-a-fundable-offer/) - Donors are motivated by a desire to make a meaningful impact on causes that resonate with their values and beliefs. - [Upcoming Webinar: Cracking the Code: Strategies for Effective Donor Segmentation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/upcoming-webinar-cracking-the-code/) - Segmentation is not just a tool; it’s a strategic opportunity for you to build lasting relationships, optimize your fundraising efforts, and create positive and impactful donor experiences. - [Generational Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/generational-giving-2/) - When I was 10 years old, I learned my grandparents once owned and operated a bar. But once my grandmother became a Christian, they donated their bar on the famous Route 66 to a local ministry and it was transformed into a soup kitchen. - [Will I Be a Success?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/will-i-be-a-success-2/) - In my 30s, I had several conflicting emotions. Having finished my formal education, I felt the excitement of just beginning a great life journey, but I also had feelings of apprehension that perhaps the world needed someone with much more to offer than I could provide. - [Straight Talk: Reality Check](https://www.douglasshaw.com/straight-talk-reality-check/) - For many organizations, the past year or two haven’t painted a rosy picture of charitable giving. But as fundraising professionals, it’s crucial for us to confront these difficulties—downturns and any other challenges—head-on. - [What's Wrong with Our Development Department?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/whats-wrong-with-our-development-department/) - As a VP of Development for many years, I know how it feels to have my nonprofit colleagues begin to doubt my department’s capabilities. This is usually a question that arises following years of success. - [Unlocking The Future: Digital Donor Acquisition In 2024](https://www.douglasshaw.com/unlocking-the-future-2024-2/) - The past few years have been a roller coaster in the fundraising world—lots of quick pivots, emotional highs and lows, and so many forces seemingly pulling your organization in different directions; it can all leave a fundraiser feeling nauseated. - [Sometimes You Just Have to Take the Next Step](https://www.douglasshaw.com/take-the-next-step/) - Excitement, dread, caution . . . the word “innovation” might bring you a myriad of feelings! - [One Person's Standard Practice is Total Innovation to Another](https://www.douglasshaw.com/one-persons-standard-practice-is-total-innovation-to-another/) - I’m pretty certain most people have heard the old joke about the guy who buys a chainsaw from the hardware store and returns two days later, covered in sweat. He tells the guy behind the counter, “I can’t cut down trees with this! It’ll take a week just to cut one tree.” - [The Details In The Data](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-details-in-the-data/) - You’ve probably seen advertisements or been offered webinars on the latest in data modeling, using buzzwords like “artificial intelligence” or “machine learning.” - [The Never-Ending Race to Innovate](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-never-ending-race-to-innovate/) - Existing in the online space for a nonprofit can sometimes feel like you’re attempting to walk across a river using pool floaties as steppingstones. - [Inside the Issue: Is Your Giving Down This Year?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-the-issue-eis-your-giving-down-this-year/) - Many organizations are experiencing lower giving in 2022 than at any time in the past three years. Almost everyone we talk to is experiencing lower results this year, and they want to know “Why is giving down?” - [No Matter What, Keep Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/no-matter-what-keep-fundraising/) - As stewards responsible for thousands of donors, these relationships may feel overwhelming, even in optimistic seasons. But nagging uncertainty has the potential to make the burden even heavier. - [Upcoming Webinar: Is Your Offer Fundable?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/is-your-offer-fundable/) - Segmentation is not just a tool; it’s a strategic opportunity for you to build lasting relationships, optimize your fundraising efforts, and create positive and impactful donor experiences. - [More Than Just Work](https://www.douglasshaw.com/more-than-just-work/) - As a young Christian professional navigating the conundrum of aligning my beliefs into a purposeful career, I’ve been blessed to find a home at Douglas Shaw & Associates. Like many of us, I’m eager to play a role that leaves a positive mark on the world, reaching beyond just my own life and making a - [The Donor Experience Scorecard: How to Keep New Donors Giving . . . and Giving Again](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-to-keep-donors-giving/) - Change is happening all around—technology breakthroughs, communication channels, giving platforms, and more. - [Rethink Your eNewsletter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/rethink-your-enewsletter/) - Recently, we asked ourselves: Is there a better way to do newsletters so they can have a greater impact on your donor file, while also increasing the funds they raise? - [Tried and True Strategies For Donor Acquisition and Reactivation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tried-and-true-strategies/) - Donor activation and retention strategies are vital to the growth and success of your organization. Now we're going to focus on another famous A&R duo in the direct response fundraising world: donor acquisition and reactivation. - [Live the Give: Adam Petraglia](https://www.douglasshaw.com/live-the-give-adam-petraglia/) - When you’re a kid with cancer, it’s hard to be treated as a kid and enjoy all the normal activities that an 11-year-old should be doing. At camp, it created that normal atmosphere that was so important. - [Live the Give: Robert Johnson](https://www.douglasshaw.com/live-the-give-robert-johnson/) - In 2014, on a trip to Chad, I met missionaries working on a literacy project in the Sahara desert. These kids were the first generation to have... - [What to Think of Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Fundraising . . .](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-to-think-of-artificial-intelligence/) - In trying to summon an image to represent our theme for this issue of Donor Focus, I found myself drawn to Auguste Rodin’s sculpture The Thinker. It’s such a familiar piece, yet few of us know the struggles Rodin encountered in presenting his work to the public. - [Fundraising Meets Artificial Intelligence](https://www.douglasshaw.com/fundraising-meets-artificial-intelligence/) - In this article, we’ll explore the captivating realm of AI-powered fundraising efforts—the boundless benefits and intriguing challenges that arise when technology and philanthropy join forces . . . when fundraising meets artificial intelligence. - [Cut Through the Clutter: Year-End Digital Fundraising Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/year-end-digital-fundraising-strategy/) - Before you know it, December will be here. And after many years of serving in the fundraising world, I can say with confidence that it is both an exciting and intimidating time of year. - [Thank You Operation Food Search](https://www.douglasshaw.com/thank-you-operation-food-search/) - This issue of Donor Focus has much to do with the power of empathy, both in leadership and in understanding the experiences of others. - [EMPATHY CHANGES EVERYTHING](https://www.douglasshaw.com/empathy-changes-everything/) - This issue of Donor Focus has much to do with the power of empathy, both in leadership and in understanding the experiences of others. - [LEADING WITH EMPATHY](https://www.douglasshaw.com/leading-with-empathy/) - In listening to nonprofit CEOs describe obstacles they’re facing, themes have primarily centered around staff turnover, overwhelming workloads, and personnel challenges—many occurring within donor development departments - [A REWARDING PARTNERSHIP](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-rewarding-partnership/) - A long-term, mutually beneficial relationship with our clients is a value of Douglas Shaw & Associates. One of the most exciting aspects of serving Scott Mission, an organization in the Greater Toronto Area we have partnered with for over 12 years, is working together to strategize the best ways to communicate with their various donor audiences. - [THE RESULTS ARE IN!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-results-are-in/) - Donors are on the go, and their attention is constantly being divided between different companies, advertisers, mobile apps, and more—in addition to everything else life throws at them. - [Course Correction: Using Real-Time Results to Guide Your Fundraising Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/real-time-results-to-guide-your-fundraising-strategy/) - Change is happening all around—technology breakthroughs, communication channels, giving platforms, and more. - [THE UNEXPECTED DIVERSITY OF GOD’S RESOURCES](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-unexpected-diversity-of-gods-resources/) - Maybe it’s just me, but have you noticed how much customer service has degraded? And I’m not just talking a little, but a lot! - [Upcoming Webinar: Innovation Made Simple](https://www.douglasshaw.com/innovation-made-simple/) - Change is happening all around—technology breakthroughs, communication channels, giving platforms, and more. - [True Partnership Gets Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/true-partnership-gets-results/) - Maybe it’s just me, but have you noticed how much customer service has degraded? And I’m not just talking a little, but a lot! - [How to Make Your Fundraising Messaging Irresistible](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-to-make-your-fundraising-messaging-irresistible/) - You have probably spent hours considering the reasons why donors give to organizations like yours . . . and I am sure over your fundraising career, you have discovered multiple answers to this question. - [2023, Is This the Year that . . .?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2023-is-this-the-year-that/) - On two different occasions I served in the development/advancement departments of a long-standing nonprofit, serving the needs of the poor and those fleeing persecution in their home countries. - [My Christmas List Has Changed](https://www.douglasshaw.com/my-christmas-list-has-changed/) - On two different occasions I served in the development/advancement departments of a long-standing nonprofit, serving the needs of the poor and those fleeing persecution in their home countries. - [14 Tips for Successful Year-End Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/14-tips-for-successful-year-end-fundraising/) - LAY THE GROUNDWORK 1. Identify your goal. How much money do you need to raise by December 31? 2. Set your strategy. Clearly communicate why you need the money. What good things will happen because the donor gives or what bad things can they prevent by giving before the end of this year? Don’t forget: remind your supporters of the great things that have happened as you have partnered in your shared cause this year. - [How Ambitious Are Your Year-End Goals?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-ambitious-are-your-year-end-goals/) - I still remember the day several years ago when an organization we serve told me they needed to raise about 25% more income in the upcoming calendar year-end campaign than they had ever raised before. - [Inside the Issue: End The Year With The Results You Want](https://www.douglasshaw.com/end-the-year-with-the-results-you-want/) - On two different occasions I served in the development/advancement departments of a long-standing nonprofit, serving the needs of the poor and those fleeing persecution in their home countries. - [Your Most Valuable Quality During Year-End](https://www.douglasshaw.com/your-most-valuable-quality-during-year-end/) - The year-end giving season is a busy time, when development staff work fast and furiously to keep donor processes running smoothly - [Inside the Issue: Your Annual Plan is a Roadmap](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-the-issue-your-annual-plan-is-a-roadmap/) - “So, how much money are you going to raise this year, Doug?” - [Your Annual Plan is Your Roadmap](https://www.douglasshaw.com/your-annual-plan-is-your-roadmap-2/) - A good annual plan is a very detailed roadmap that can get you where you need to go, but there might be detours along the way! - [To Look Forward, You Must Look Back](https://www.douglasshaw.com/to-look-forward-you-must-look-back/) - A successful annual plan starts with data. That’s because data can tell you almost anything about your donors and their giving behaviors - [Ask a Direct Response Pro](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ask-a-direct-response-pro/) - Q. How do we know how much of last year’s annual plan should stay the same and how much testing or new initiatives should be added in? - [The Communications Calendar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-communications-calendar/) - Keep your team on track all year, across all channels. - [Fundraising to Make The Biggest Impact](https://www.douglasshaw.com/fundraising-to-make-the-biggest-impact/) - Dreaming big. Casting vision. That’s the exciting part—creating the ideal picture of how you want to make your greatest impact in the world. - [What to Do When Your Cookie Crumbles](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-to-do-when-your-cookie-crumbles/) - There have been many changes in the world of digital advertising for nonprofits in recent years. - [A Blueprint for Better Newsletters That Yield Incredible Fundraising Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/blueprint-better-newsletters-yield-incredible-results/) - Newsletters offer a unique opportunity to engage your donors in an exciting, highly visual way—informing them of how greatly their generosity has benefitted your organization’s recipients, making a difference in their lives for many years to come. - [Don't Forget This Essential Fundraising Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/essential-fundraising-strategy/) - Income producing newsletters? I couldn't believe it! It was in the mid-80s, and I was sitting in the offices of a new client who proudly showed me a copy of their monthly newsletter. - [12 Questions to Donor Focused Newsletters](https://www.douglasshaw.com/questions-donor-focused-newsletters/) - Donor focused newsletters are a way for people who engage with your organization to feel connected and learn more about the good work they are helping make possible. - [Crafting an Effective Fundraising Newsletter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/crafting-an-effective-fundraising-newsletter/) - Newsletters are essential to fundraising strategy. They offer an opportunity to close the loop with fundraising appeals by reporting back to donors on what their generosity has accomplished. - [8 Last-Minute Adjustments to Boost Year-End Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/8-last-minute-adjustments-to-boost-year-end-giving/) - What can you still implement to make your year-end fundraising yield even better results? Join us for a FREE webinar on December 1st at 12:00 PM CST . . . - [Reducing Donor Churn](https://www.douglasshaw.com/reducing-donor-churn/) - Donor churn is costly, and reducing it makes the most of your development investment. That’s why it is critical to . . . - [LifePath Donation Form Optimization News](https://www.douglasshaw.com/lifepath-donation-form-optimization-news/) - When a potential donor lands on a donation form, organizations often make a critical assumption: the user has already decided to donate. - [WELCOME PATHWAYS TO COLLEGE!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-pathways-to-college/) - Douglas Shaw & Associates is excited to announce our partnership with Pathways to College, headquartered in Teaneck, NJ! - [Why Do Donors Quit Giving?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/why-do-donors-quit-giving/) - Your organization is fueled by donors, and it's easier to keep your current donors than it is to get new ones. Learn how to keep your donors engaged . . . - [Using Digital Advertising to Find Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/using-digital-advertising-to-find-donors/) - The only thing certain about 2021 is uncertainty. You can’t anticipate your donors’ personal circumstances or their confidence to keep giving as usual. - [What’s Missing: Digital Metrics That Can Make the Difference](https://www.douglasshaw.com/whats-missing-digital-metrics-that-can-make-the-difference/) - The only thing certain about 2021 is uncertainty. You can’t anticipate your donors’ personal circumstances or their confidence to keep giving as usual. - [Planning for Unpredictable Times: Key Updates to Make to Your 2021 Fundraising Plan](https://www.douglasshaw.com/planning-for-unpredictable-times/) - The only thing certain about 2021 is uncertainty. You can’t anticipate your donors’ personal circumstances or their confidence to keep giving as usual. - [Unlocking Fundraising Success in 2021: 5 Keys in Your Data](https://www.douglasshaw.com/unlocking-fundraising-success-in-2021/) - Data is one of the most powerful tools to unlocking fundraising success for every organization. - [Successful Strategies for Boosting Digital Year-End Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/successful-strategies-for-boosting-digital-year-end-fundraising/) - As an organization, it can be incredibly difficult to know when and how to respond to times of global and local crisis. - [Welcome Greater Chicago Food Depository!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-greater-chicago-food-depository/) - Welcome Greater Chicago Food Depository! Douglas Shaw & Associates is pleased to announce their partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository. The Food Depository is part of a united community effort, working to bring food, dignity, and hope to people across Cook County, Illinois. The Food Depository acts as the hub for a network of over 700 - [Adapt Your Fundraising to Strengthen Donor Trust](https://www.douglasshaw.com/adapt-your-fundraising-to-strengthen-donor-trust/) - As an organization, it can be incredibly difficult to know when and how to respond to times of global and local crisis. - [Facing a July 4th to Remember . . .](https://www.douglasshaw.com/facing-a-july-4th-to-remember/) - July 4, 2020 will go down as one of the more memorable holidays in recent history, but certainly not the worst. If we take a moment to pause and look back in time, perhaps we can gain the benefit of perspective... - [Eliminate Fundraising Pitfalls in Times of Crisis](https://www.douglasshaw.com/eliminate-fundraising-pitfalls-in-times-of-crisis/) - As an organization, it can be incredibly difficult to know when and how to respond to times of global and local crisis. - [COVID-19: Where do we go from here?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/covid-19-where-do-we-go-from-here-2/) - In Douglas Shaw & Associates’ recent webinar, we took a look at how you can continue generating donor support in times of crisis, today and going forward—to get the RESULTS you still need. - [A View of Redemption This Easter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/redemption-this-easter/) - This Easter season is like no previous time in our experience, as we all respond to the COVID-19 crisis. But while we shelter ... - [THANK YOU to our employees!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/thank-you-to-our-employees/) - Thank you for providing familiar faces and voices in an unfamiliar time, and stability in unstable times. - [The Truth About Co-Ops](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-truth-about-co-ops/) - As a steward of the fundraising responsibility for your organization, one of your most critical responsibilities is inviting new supporters to be involved in accomplishing your mission! And not just for today, but people who will continue to support your organization for years to come. - [Key Metrics for Donor Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/key-metrics-for-donor-acquisition/) - The start of a new year is one of the most enjoyable times of year for those of us who work in fundraising. The gifts are entered, the batches are complete, and now we get to see the cumulative impact of donors who were inspired to generosity in the last year. - [Keys to Building a Monthly Donor Program](https://www.douglasshaw.com/keys-to-building-a-monthly-donor-program-2/) - For Douglas Shaw & Associates first webinar of the new year—and new decade!— Keys to Building a Monthly Donor Program, we took a good, hard look at how to build a successful Monthly Donor Program—and what vital for a growing organization like yours. - [Emerging Trends for Digital Fundraising Growth](https://www.douglasshaw.com/emerging-trends-for-digital-fundraising-growth/) - Organizations have a lot of digital networks and tools available to them. That’s useful, because your subscribers and followers want to feel personally connected to your mission. But as new networks seem to pop up all the time... - [Great Testing That Works!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/great-testing-that-works-2/) - Fundraising is frequently counterintuitive: To avoid assuming what inspires your donors to give, you must get data to inform your strategic decisions. - [Emerging Trends in Digital, Data, and Direct Mail](https://www.douglasshaw.com/emerging-trends-in-digital-data-and-direct-mail-2/) - Is print communication on its way out? Are you chasing what’s new in digital and social media, but can’t catch up? Do you feel pressure to build multi-channel fundraising strategies with limited resources? Invest 60 minutes and you will leave with practical tips you can implement now to improve effectiveness, inspire supporters, and boost results. - [Welcome Pacific Garden Mission!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-pacific-garden-mission/) - Welcome Pacific Garden Mission! We’re privileged to announce our partnership with Pacific Garden Mission, the nation’s oldest continuously operating Gospel Rescue Mission, working to restore the lives of homeless and hurting men, women, and children and reach them with the Gospel of Jesus Christ since 1877. In addition to emergency services of food and shelter, - [Welcome Hope Ministries!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-hope-ministries/) - Welcome Hope Ministries! We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Hope Ministries in Des Moines, Iowa! Since 1915, Hope Ministries has faithfully served people in Central Iowa experiencing homelessness, hunger, abuse, or addiction. Their services are offered freely to anyone who comes seeking help to overcome huge challenges and find hope for a brighter future. - [Congratulations to Pastor Colin Smith and Unlocking the Bible](https://www.douglasshaw.com/congratulations-to-pastor-colin-smith-and-unlocking-the-bible/) - Unlocking the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith is quickly becoming one of the foremost Christian radio programs in the broadcast marketplace. Recently Moody Radio announced Pastor Smith as this year’s recipient of the distinguished 2019 Robert Neff Award. - [How to Raise the Bar on Your Multi-Channel Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-to-raise-the-bar-on-your-multi-channel-fundraising/) - Do you ever wonder if direct mail is as effective as it once was? Do you find it a challenge to keep up with the changes in digital fundraising and social media? In a recent webinar, we provided an argument as to why, as fundraisers, we shouldn’t be thinking so narrowly. - [Navigating Facebook and Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/navigating-facebook-and-fundraising/) - Social network management requires a large amount of content and changes pop up unexpectedly that require a constant adjustment of strategy and tactics. This takes a significant investment of time and staff. But can you really walk away from Facebook? - [Welcome Rise Against Hunger!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-rise-against-hunger/) - We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Rise Against Hunger, an international hunger relief organization that distributes food and life-giving aid to the world’s most vulnerable. Serving people in 74 countries, Rise Against Hunger is headquartered in Raleigh, NC. - [Welcome Riverside Healthcare!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-riverside-healthcare/) - We are delighted to announce our partnership with Riverside Healthcare, a fully integrated healthcare system in Illinois. - [Welcome Shepherd Center!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-shepherd-center/) - We’re privileged to announce our partnership with Shepherd Center, ranked among the nation’s top ten rehabilitation hospitals for spinal cord and brain injury. - [Three Ways to Improve Your Fundraising Letters](https://www.douglasshaw.com/three-ways-improve-fundraising-letters/) - There are countless different tips, tricks, and tactics you can use when writing your appeal letters, emails, landing pages, and any other direct response communications. I want to give you three secrets that I’ve used over the years to write effective direct mail and digital copy. - [Welcome LSS Northern California!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-lss-northern-california/) - Douglas Shaw and Associates is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Lutheran Social Services of Northern California! - [Welcome Open Door Rescue Mission!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-open-door-rescue-mission/) - We count it a privilege to come alongside Candace Gregory and her team at Open Door Mission in Omaha in drawing new supporters who will help rebuild many lives through their partnership of giving. - [Welcome Charlotte Rescue Mission!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-charlotte-rescue-mission/) - Douglas Shaw and Associates is pleased to serve this incredible organization with comprehensive direct response services and consulting. - [Welcome to The Hope Center!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-to-the-hope-center/) - Douglas Shaw & Associates is pleased to link arms with The Hope Center as they grow to meet their goals in 2018 and beyond. - [From the Floor: Our Report from the 2018 NRB Convention](https://www.douglasshaw.com/floor-report-2018-nrb-convention/) - The mood at this year’s convention is a reflective one as we remember the legacy of Billy Graham—possibly the greatest Christian broadcaster of all time—after his recent passing. His lifelong dedication to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ... - [Welcome Moving Forward!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-moving-forward/) - It is our great privilege at Douglas Shaw & Associates to partner with Moving Forward as they engage their supporters and continue to expand the reach of their growing broadcast ministry. - [Welcome Haven of Rest!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-haven-rest/) - Douglas Shaw & Associates is honored to partner with Haven of Rest Ministries as they live out their mission to follow the Great Commission and serve those in need. - [Welcome Orlando Union Rescue Mission!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-orlando-union-rescue-mission/) - For the past 70 years, Orlando Union Rescue Mission (O.U.R.) has been committed to serving Central Florida’s men, women, and families who are hungry, hurting, and homeless. - [Welcoming Grace To You!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcoming-grace-to-you/) - It’s a great privilege to partner with Grace To You as they engage their supporters in placing resources into as many hands as possible, anywhere in the world. - [Don't Forget to Say Thank You!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/dont-forget-say-thank/) - If you could see your year-end fundraising future, what would it look like? Perhaps a group of very excited, yet slightly exhausted, fundraising staff all slapping high-fives and celebrating the results of a successful year-end campaign. - [Are You Listening to Your Donors?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/are-you-listening-to-your-donors/) - Who should I communicate with? How often should I communicate with them? What gift amount should I ask them for? These are questions we often hear from organizations and they are valid concerns. The answers to these questions are often easier to find than you would expect. - [Make the Numbers Work for You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/make-numbers-work-2/) - Not long ago, a development professional for a ministry commented: “I know how to pull reports from my system, but I don’t know how to read them!” And he isn’t alone... - [Inside this Issue: Data Donor Focus](https://www.douglasshaw.com/inside-issue-data-donor-focus/) - What you are holding in your hand, or looking at on your screen, is our final issue of Donor Focus for this year. All 40 of us here at Douglas Shaw & Associates hope that you’ve found some useful content to help you along your way. - [Is it Time to Dump Direct Mail?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/time-dump-direct-mail/) - If your online revenue has been growing, chances are your team has thought about cutting back on direct mail. Your board or CFO might see an opportunity to save money by shifting away from the hard costs of so much mail. - [What is Right With the World](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-is-right-with-the-world/) - Today, one thing I CAN do is smile and give thanks this special season for being able to serve ... - [Taking Your Homepage by Storm](https://www.douglasshaw.com/taking-homepage-storm/) - The last week of 2017 typically sees about 48% of an organization’s December donations. For many of the clients we serve, that can amount to 25% of their annual budget for the year. - [Every Ship Leaks - The Importance of Donor Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/every-ship-leaks-importance-donor-acquisition/) - Whether or not your organization is aware—you are in a leaky ship. Watch the latest in our video series on navigating the dangerous waters of donor acquisition. - [Peer to Peer: Starting with Trusted Partnerships](https://www.douglasshaw.com/peer-peer-starting-trusted-partnerships/) - You can’t get any more grassroots in your fundraising style than peer-to-peer fundraising! And this method of fundraising is bringing great success. CARE Australia, one of our partner organizations... - [Dynamic Digital Response: Mobilizing Supporters When Time is Short](https://www.douglasshaw.com/moneybomb/) - When emergency strikes, you need funds raised . . . and FAST! But, most channels have a natural time delay due to printing, mailing, or producing media. In the digital world, though, you can eliminate that lag time and literally start to mobilize donors right away. - [How Do You Want to Grow?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-do-you-want-to-grow-2/) - As a result of our partnership and commitment to these shared goals and strategies—over the past seven years—The Scott Mission has experienced a 235% growth in income and a 320% growth in the number of donors giving each year! And even better news is we’re not done yet . . . - [Donor Focus: Inside this Issue](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-focus-inside-issue/) - Boy, I tell ya, I’m almost afraid to turn on the television these days! The news is mostly tumultuous at best. The din of politics hurts my head and man’s brutality to man hurts my heart! But I must say, it gives all the more meaning to the work we all share . . . giving hope to those who are in need of some good news! - [Get on the Road to Better Donor Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/get-road-better-donor-acquisition/) - Need more and better donors? Our acquisition program has seen success at bringing in more donors to the donor file with a higher average gift and long term donor value. - [RULE #51: Small donors can cost you money](https://www.douglasshaw.com/small-donors-can-cost-you-money/) - Seasoned fundraising professionals are not as easily impressed as they were when they first began their journey on the path of philanthropic encouragement. What used to please them, like acquiring a lot of new donors, now leaves them asking the question, “Did we acquire the right kind of new donors?” - [Your Potential Donors ARE Online](https://www.douglasshaw.com/your-donors-are-online/) - In the Digital Solutions team at Douglas Shaw & Associates, we’re passionate about all things digital. Not because it’s new—some of us have been working in the digital space for over 20 years—and not because it’s the perfect solution. - [The Hunt for Donor Focused Communication](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-hunt-for-donor-focused-communication/) - Donor focused communication begins with understanding with whom you’re communicating and their interests and desires. Instead of meeting donors where they are, these organizations are trying to drive donor and constituent behavior... - [Merry Christmas!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/merry-christmas/) - I think I would give just about ANYTHING to have been one of the shepherds that night. They had front row seats on the greatest event in the history of history … and they were the first to know! - [Online Fundraising 101](https://www.douglasshaw.com/online-fundraising-101-2/) - Organizations that move into a multi-channel digital marketing strategy are achieving up to 300 percent improvement in ROI from their fundraising efforts. - [Make Waves on the Air](https://www.douglasshaw.com/make-waves-on-the-air/) - Every ministry needs to meet new people who will encounter the impact of their mission and catch a vision to start giving. There are many opportunities... - [Giving Thanks](https://www.douglasshaw.com/giving-thanks-2/) - At this special time of year, we give thanks for the gifts we’re given and the people in our lives. We at Douglas Shaw & Associates asked our... - [The NCDC Conference](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-ncdc-conference/) - This week, Douglas Shaw & Associates is presenting at the National Catholic Development Conference in Washington DC. We partnered with... - [Value Propositions in Fundraising: New Study Shows Nonprofit Organizations Can Fall Short in Making the Case to Donate](https://www.douglasshaw.com/value-propositions-in-fundraising-new-study-shows-nonprofit-organizations-can-fall-short-in-making-the-case-to-donate/) - Many nonprofits don’t clearly define their value proposition in interactions with potential donors – which negatively impacts donations and donor relationships. - [Saying “thank you” to donors is necessary (and profitable!)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/saying-thank-you-to-donors-is-necessary-and-profitable/) - There’s a great Wallace Shawn (Vizzini) line from the classic movie, The Princess Bride, that comes to mind when I hear the annual poll results... - [Breaking the Rules](https://www.douglasshaw.com/breaking-the-rules/) - When working in ministry (and in particular, ministry fundraising) – there’s one golden rule: keep requests for prayer separate from... - [Donor Acquisition: When the “Widow’s Mite” Hurts Your Ministry](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-acquisition-when-the-widows-mite-hurts-your-ministry/) - While teaching in the temple, Jesus is addressing the crowd gathered around Him. Some are asking questions to learn from Him, others are... - [From the Floor: Our Report From the NRB Convention](https://www.douglasshaw.com/from-the-floor-our-report-from-the-nrb-convention/) - One thing about the NRB convention during an election year, it’s never dull. This year saw presidential candidates Ted Cruz and Dr. Ben Carson... - [The New Face of Facebook for Nonprofits](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-new-face-of-facebook-for-nonprofits/) - This week, Facebook unveiled a new set of resources for nonprofits and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), good for both the newbie and... - [The Gift of Testing – From Gut Instinct to Proven Response](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-gift-of-testing-from-gut-instinct-to-proven-response/) - It’s the word that can strike fear into the heart of every schoolchild, but in the language of fundraising, testing is a gift. It’s a gift of... - [Live the Give: Shelley Cochrane](https://www.douglasshaw.com/live-the-give-shelley-cochrane/) - “Growing up, we were what you might call an ‘under-resourced’ family – living below the poverty line. We didn’t have a lot, but we were happy... - [Development Office Resolutions: Making 2016 Your Best Fundraising Year](https://www.douglasshaw.com/development-office-resolutions-making-2016-your-best-fundraising-year/) - A new year always sparks new optimism, and many of us welcomed 2016 with lofty goals. Eating less and exercising more are generally good things... - [Making 2017 Your Best Fundraising Year Ever](https://www.douglasshaw.com/making-2017-your-best-fundraising-year-ever/) - Welcome to 2017! A new year bringing opportunities to do things differently. Even small changes can impact the success of your fundraising... - [SIM, Douglas Shaw & Associates Win NonProfit PRO Gold Award for “Pray to End Ebola” Campaign](https://www.douglasshaw.com/sim-douglas-shaw-associates-win-nonprofit-pro-gold-award-for-pray-to-end-ebola-campaign/) - SIM, an international Christian mission organization based in Charlotte, has been awarded a 2015 NonProfit PRO Gold Award for Fundraising Excellence... - [Christmas on the Ranch](https://www.douglasshaw.com/christmas-on-the-ranch/) - I have always found myself rooting for the underdog, the poor and beaten down. Perhaps this is what attracted me to fundraising as a... - [Building an Integrated, Multichannel Campaign](https://www.douglasshaw.com/building-an-integrated-multichannel-campaign/) - To the average person standing in line next to you at the grocery store, the title of this article could be quite confusing. Just look at the... - [MAP International Named One of Top 10 Charities Changing the World in 2015](https://www.douglasshaw.com/map-international-named-one-of-top-10-charities-changing-the-world-in-2015/) - Congratulations to Douglas Shaw & Associates partner MAP International for being named one of the Top 10 Charities Changing the World... - [Giving Thanks](https://www.douglasshaw.com/giving-thanks/) - At this special time of year, we give thanks for the gifts we’re given and the people in our lives. We at Douglas Shaw... - [Enhancing Donor Retention through Listening and Thanking Donors this Christmas](https://www.douglasshaw.com/enhancing-donor-retention-through-listening-and-thanking-donors-this-christmas/) - The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), in their 2015 Fundraising Effectiveness survey, cites donor attrition at a staggering 54.3%. Across... - [Making the Most of Media Opportunities for Your Ministry](https://www.douglasshaw.com/making-the-most-of-media-opportunities-for-your-ministry/) - The media loves a good charitable works story during the Christmas season. With cameras and microphones pointed in the direction of many... - [6 Simple Ways to Connect with Your Donors on #GivingTuesday](https://www.douglasshaw.com/6-simple-ways-to-connect-with-your-donors-on-givingtuesday/) - Giving Tuesday was created four years ago as an antidote to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday – major shopping days on the... - [The Value of “Trust”](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-value-of-trust/) - In any fundraising effort, the crux of every invitation to donate is based on trust. Trust that the organization’s leadership will be good stewards... - [Metrics that Matter for Fundraising Success](https://www.douglasshaw.com/metrics-that-matter-for-fundraising-success/) - It’s been said by people smarter than me that “we measure what we value and we value what we measure.” I think there’s a lot of truth to that. The problem... - [Nonprofits and Social Media–Strategy by the Numbers](https://www.douglasshaw.com/nonprofits-and-social-media-strategy-by-the-numbers/) - Social media in the nonprofit world has been steadily growing, and viral campaigns like the infamous Ice Bucket Challenge have yielded tremendous... - [Live the Give: Aubrey Hoeppner](https://www.douglasshaw.com/live-the-give-aubrey-hoeppner/) - Most of my volunteer involvement is through my church. I’m a leader for our high school youth group—sophomore girls this year—and strive to walk with them and provide encouragement as they grow in their faith during this challenging part of their lives. - [Slowing the Revolving Door in the Development Office](https://www.douglasshaw.com/slowing-the-revolving-door-in-the-development-office/) - “The person I just met with was asking for funds for a ministry that he said is the most important mission in the Kingdom of God. But last year, he... - [Starstruck: Is Chasing Charity Ratings Strangling Your Nonprofit?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/starstruck-is-chasing-charity-ratings-strangling-your-nonprofit/) - It happens all the time: an organization is evaluating a big expenditure and someone on the team mentions how it might affect the number of stars... - [The Great Advantage of a Snail Mail Receipt](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-great-advantage-of-a-snail-mail-receipt/) - In my last blog, I urged you to not give in to pressure to use email as the channel for your thank-you letter and official donor receipt. If you remember I cited a statistic that’s pretty compelling . . . “most organizations receive as much as 30% of their direct response income from bounce-back or receipt income.” Notice I qualified my statement by using the phrase, “direct response.” - [Online vs. Offline Channels as Income Sources](https://www.douglasshaw.com/online-vs-offline-channels-as-income-sources/) - There are a lot of rumors, buzz, and desire to pressure you to move most of your organization’s fundraising to online channels, be it email, web... - [Self-Awareness: The Best Friend of the Fundraiser](https://www.douglasshaw.com/self-awareness-the-best-friend-of-the-fundraiser/) - There’s an old country saying, “Don’t hire a dog and bark yourself.” In fact this is exactly what many nonprofit’s do; they hire a fundraising consultant... - [A Word of Encouragement to the Development Committee of Your Board](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-word-of-encouragement-to-the-development-committee-of-your-board/) - If you find yourself on the Development Committee of your Board of Trustees, you are in a very powerful position. Next to the Finance Committee... - [The Rules of Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-rules-of-fundraising-3/) - There are rules in fundraising, just like there are in quantum physics or any other field of study. Granted, these rules are not as complicated and... - [How Often Should Our Organization Ask for Money in the Mail?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-often-should-our-organization-ask-for-money-in-the-mail/) - It seems like of lot of people are asking this question. It’s a reasonable thing to ask, especially if your nonprofit is thinking about trying to grow... - [Just Because We Want a Strategy to Work Doesn’t Mean it Will](https://www.douglasshaw.com/just-because-we-want-a-strategy-to-work-doesnt-mean-it-will/) - I’ve been around the fundraising barn a few times. In fact I’ve worn a path around it that, if filled with water, would resemble a moat! I’ve played... - [My Donors are Getting Too Old, What Do I Do?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/my-donors-are-getting-too-old-what-do-i-do/) - I first heard this comment in 1980, when I began my fundraising journey. I was sitting in the office of the president of a nonprofit. Seated around... - [Jumping to Conclusions is a Great Thing to do!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/jumping-to-conclusions-is-a-great-thing-to-do/) - That’s right; some of the oldest and largest nonprofits in the world are joined by some of the newest and smallest organizations in this seductive activity! - [The Paralyzing Effect of Choice](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-paralyzing-effect-of-choice/) - I’m a huge fan of all things food related. One of my favorites is the always irreverent Gordon Ramsay and his Kitchen Nightmares. That’s where... - [The Cure for Shiny Object Syndrome](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-cure-for-shiny-object-syndrome/) - Do you struggle with Shiny Object Syndrome (S-O-S)? You know what I mean. You go to the store with a distinct list of things you need and you... - [Director of Development Expectations of a CEO](https://www.douglasshaw.com/director-of-development-expectations-of-a-ceo/) - In my last posting I wrote about the CEO’s expectations of a director of development. This time the tables turn. What are reasonable expectations... - [The Hardest Part of Being a Fundraising Consultant](https://www.douglasshaw.com/the-hardest-part-of-being-a-fundraising-consultant/) - Believe it or not the hardest part of providing fundraising counsel to nonprofits is NOT raising sufficient income! It’s not coming up with strategies... - [What is the CEO’s Role in Raising Funds?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-is-the-ceos-role-in-raising-funds/) - I can’t tell you the number of times that I’ve spoken with nonprofit fundraisers and heard this statement, “We’ve got a great CEO, but I just can’t... - [What is the Most Difficult Question in Fundraising?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/what-is-the-most-difficult-question-in-fundraising/) - As simple as it may sound, one of the most difficult questions nonprofits have to answer is: “What do we need the money for?” Sounds easy doesn’t it? - [How You Use Power Will Determine the Health of Your Organization](https://www.douglasshaw.com/how-you-use-power-will-determine-the-health-of-your-organization/) - Leaders, at any level within an organization, can create an environment of joyful service. Conversely, there are many leaders who view power as something... - [In Search of Practical Wisdom?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/in-search-of-practical-wisdom/) - Perhaps it began at the beginning of the Renaissance. We traded our search for wisdom to a search for knowledge. We went from our ability to live with... - [Creating a Culture to Advance Your Mission](https://www.douglasshaw.com/creating-a-culture-to-advance-your-mission/) - There’s a whole lot of changing going on! I’m 61 years old and that means I was born in 1952. I think they’re starting to dig up artifacts from that era (especially if you... - [In Pursuit of Excellence](https://www.douglasshaw.com/in-pursuit-of-excellence/) - Over the years a lot has been written about excellence. In fact, if you type excellence into Amazon they’ll identify over 120,000 items of which 20,000+ are books. - [Simple Isn’t Easy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/simple-isnt-easy/) - I’ve always found that simple takes a lot of work. One of the 20th century’s greatest thinkers, Albert Einstein, said that “most of the fundamental ideas of science are essentially... ## Pages - [Home](https://www.douglasshaw.com/) - You Are a Part of What Is Right with the World! Douglas Shaw & Associates is ready to partner with you to amplify your message and enhance your fundraising efforts, helping you be a part of what is right with the world. Client Partners Serving Alongside Amazing Partners to Maximize Impact: For more than 30 years . . . - [About](https://www.douglasshaw.com/about/) - As a Trusted Partner, Your Mission . . . Is Our Mission We’re more than a vendor. We’re a trusted partner committed to helping you contribute to what is right with the world and raising money for your amazing cause. Our Vision, Mission, and Values VisionWe dream of becoming recognized thought leaders in our industry - [Careers](https://www.douglasshaw.com/careers/) - Join Our Team Douglas Shaw & Associates is a close-knit team of passionate, talented individuals who truly love helping the ministries that we serve. We are always on the lookout for talented individuals to build our team. If you would like to be a part of what is right with the world, and make a - [RECEPTIONIST / ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT](https://www.douglasshaw.com/receptionist-administrative-assistant/) - Receptionist / Administrative Assistant Douglas Shaw & Associates is a full-service marketing and direct response fundraising agency serving primarily faith-based nonprofit organizations. We assist clients with strategic planning, tactical execution, and full-cycle analytics for custom integrated fundraising programs. DSA provides a casual work environment that is based on honesty, integrity, mutual respect and fun. *This - [2026 Donor Scorecard (Release)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2026-donor-scorecard-release/) - Brand-new donor data—140+ organizations assessed—immediate practical solutions—and much more. We’re pleased to announce that this year’s Donor Experience Scorecard is our most comprehensive to date—and it’s available to you now, free of charge! Discover trends and opportunities that will help your nonprofit improve its donor-stewarding experience before and in the critical communications right after a - [Contact Us](https://www.douglasshaw.com/contact/) - Start the Conversation If you’d like more information on how we can help your organization generate revenue to help propel you toward your vision, please contact Doug Shaw using this contact form or call 630.562.1321. 1717 Park Street, Suite 300Naperville, Illinois 60563 - [2026 Donor Scorecard (Release) Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2026-donor-scorecard-release-thank-you/) - Thank you for requesting the 2026 Donor Experience Scorecard! Check your inbox for the download link—it should arrive at any moment. We’re thrilled to offer nonprofit insights and fundraising strategies to improve donor relationships in an ever-changing world. After analyzing how more than 140 nonprofits engage with new online donors, our latest Scorecard details how - [Resources](https://www.douglasshaw.com/resources/) - Insights for your impact Three decades of key learnings in direct response fundraising—all in one place for you. Add a Title Use this space to add a medium length description. Be brief and give enough information to earn a click. Insights for Your Impact Over three decades of key learnings in direct response fundraising—all in - [Animations](https://www.douglasshaw.com/animations/) - Animations Animation in emails help convey an email's message in uniquely visual ways. Here are four examples. - [Raise Money](https://www.douglasshaw.com/raise-money/) - Raising Money To Make A Difference Raise Money Through myriad services and outreaches, we’ve witnessed nonprofit organizations worldwide make an incredible impact in their communities . . . But changing the world requires a constant outpouring of support from generous donors! Direct Response Fundraising: How It Works For three decades, we’ve seen how the right - [Digital Program Snapshot Survey](https://www.douglasshaw.com/digital-program-snapshot-survey/) - The following questions will help you gauge what’s working in your current digital fundraising strategy, what areas need improvement, and exactly where you’ll go from here: - [Donor Focus eNewsletter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-focus-enewsletter/) - Don’t miss an issue of Donor Focus Staying on top of the latest best practices in fundraising can be a consistent challenge. That's why we created Donor Focus. Proven fundraising tips and updates from around the industry are sent directly to your inbox with practical tools that can be immediately applied at your organization. If - [Donor Focus Newsletter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/donor-focus-newsletter/) - Don't miss an issue of Donor Focus Staying on top of the latest best practices in fundraising can be a consistent challenge. That’s why we created Donor Focus. Proven fundraising tips and updates from around the industry are sent directly to you in the mail with practical tools that can be immediately applied at your - [Digital Program Snapshot Survey Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/digital-program-snapshot-survey-thank-you/) - Thank you for taking our Digital Program Snapshot survey! It’s an ideal starting point for assessing your current digital fundraising plan and identifying key places for growth and improvement. Whether you’re teetering on the edge of a complete digital overhaul or simply need to tweak a few details in an effective and established strategy, Douglas - [2026 Donor Scorecard (pre-release) Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2026-donor-scorecard-pre-release-thank-you/) - Thank you! Thank you for your interest in our latest research, the 2026 Donor Experience Scorecard. Your download link will be sent to you when the report is released. While you wait, we invite you to explore our website to learn more about how we can help you improve everything from donor engagement and fundraising - [A Practical Guide to Turn Clicks Into Gifts Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-practical-guide-to-turn-clicks-into-gifts-thank-you/) - Thank you! Thank you for downloading our latest resource, A Practical Guide to Turn Clicks Into Gifts! We’re confident it will give you a foundation for optimizing your donation form and turning potential donors into committed ones. Be sure to check out more valuable resources just like this on our Resource Page. Douglas Shaw & - [2026 Donor Scorecard (Pre-Release)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2026-donor-scorecard-pre-release/) - Coming soon! Be the first to see how you measure up! Strengthen your online donor relationships with insights you can begin using right away. Our soon-to-be-released FREE 2026 Donor Experience Scorecard will show you how more than 140 nonprofits engage new online donors after the first gift—and where many fall short. You’ll see what effective - [A Practical Guide to Turn Clicks Into Gifts](https://www.douglasshaw.com/a-practical-guide-to-turn-clicks-into-gifts/) - When potential donors click, scroll, and browse your website, it won’t take long for them to decide whether your ministry is worth their trust and their donation. A Practical Guide to Turn Clicks Into Gifts shows you how to make these precious moments count. You’ll discover how donors actually experience your website, what they look - [2026 March Citygate](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2026-march-citygate/) - Fundraising Excellence Begins with Trusted Partners Time For a Check-Up! You can’t fake trust . . . or at least you shouldn’t. If your current fundraising agency is making you and your leadership team feel less like confidants and more like customers, Douglas Shaw & Associates is here to help. Through consistency and transparency—letting empathy - [It's Personal (Graham)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-graham/) - Serving You Is Our Privilege “. . . To be a part of what is right with the world.” The work we do at Douglas Shaw & Associates is more than a job. Hear from COO Graham Shaw about his dedication to serving nonprofits that make a positive—and personal—impact in people’s lives around the globe. - [It's Personal (Amy)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-amy/) - Going Further—Together “If you’ve been given a talent, you should use it to make the world better.” The work we do together at Douglas Shaw & Associates is deeply personal. Senior VP of Digital Solutions Amy Sewell talks about how her grandmother’s words have inspired her to make a difference in her work—and how she’s - [It's Personal (Robert)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-robert/) - Strengthening Your Calling “Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly.” These words are more than mere inspiration for Robert Johnson, Senior Creative Director. They’re the common thread of his life—and his work embodies them here at Douglas Shaw & Associates. Hear why this is personal to him . . . and why he and everyone on - [It's Personal (Brittané)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-brittane/) - Transforming Lives WITH You “Lives are actually being changed by the work I get to be a part of.” Creative Director Brittané Dodwell describes why chasing the answer to “What do I want to be when I grow up?” has turned into living the answer at Douglas Shaw & Associates. This work is personal, and - [CONFIDENTIAL CEO SELF SURVEY](https://www.douglasshaw.com/confidential-ceo-self-survey/) - CONFIDENTIAL CEO SELF SURVEY 10 Questions On a scale of 1-5 with 1 = less confident and 5 = more confident, select only one. Tally your score as you go. How confident do I feel about . . . - [CEO Survey Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ceo-survey-thank-you/) - Thank You! We hope this brief assessment provides clarity as you evaluate your current fundraising partnerships and set goals to advance your mission. If you have questions or would like to start a conversation about partnership, we’d love to hear from you. - [Services](https://www.douglasshaw.com/services/) - We Have the Right Tools to Meet Your Needs Your mission in the world is unique. There’s no other organization exactly like yours. We’re here to serve you with custom direct response strategies that will help drive incredible growth for your organization. “I love having the opportunities to make meaningful and impactful change in individual - [CONFIDENTIAL CEO SELF SURVEY (2)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/confidential-ceo-self-survey-2/) - CONFIDENTIAL CEO SELF SURVEY 10 Questions On a scale of 1-5, circle only one. How do I feel about . . . - [From Hardship to Hope](https://www.douglasshaw.com/from-hardship-to-hope/) - Helping people “at the best of times and the worst of times.” As a breast cancer survivor, Cass Ranard finds joy in helping clients “raise funds for people just like me going through similar situations.” We consider it an absolute privilege to play a part in helping people who are enduring hardship . . . - [Bringing Hope Back to People](https://www.douglasshaw.com/bringing-hope-back-to-people/) - “Be a voice for the voiceless.” Sarah Parker, Marketing Manager, is reminded daily of the truth in Proverbs 31:8, which encourages her “to be the voice of the voiceless and to champion the cause of the vulnerable. I love that in a small way, we are bringing hope back to people through the work and - [Purpose-driven. Passion-fueled.](https://www.douglasshaw.com/purpose-driven-passion-fueled/) - A “whole new sense of passion and purpose.” Senior Consultant Pete Brooks is not only a cancer survivor . . . he’s also been given “a whole new sense of passion and purpose in his life. I experienced God’s love firsthand,” he explains, “and I really feel that everyone deserves that same moment.” Pete, like - [Doing Right by You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/doing-right-by-you/) - A team of people who deeply “care about what they do.” Chairman and CEO Doug Shaw takes pride in leading a team of people who really know their stuff—people focused on doing things right all the time. This deep-down sense of commitment to excellence shows how these fundraising professionals truly “care about what they do”—for - [It's Personal (Patrick)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-patrick/) - Make the Connection “Helping the forgotten peoples of the world . . .” Patrick Doty, Senior Consultant, began to notice a harsh reality: Too much of the world’s wealth and resources were disconnected from the people and communities who needed it most. Not only is he passionate about helping bring the two together, he’s also - [It's Personal (Catalina)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-catalina/) - Serving You, Meeting Needs “There’s a lot of need out there.” Digital Solutions Manager Catalina Chavez saw it firsthand as a volunteer: Real people have real needs in this world. Needs like food, clothing, and shelter. You can hear in her voice that this is more than a job. Douglas Shaw & Associates shows up - [Welcome Survey Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-survey-thank-you/) - Thank You! Thank you for your feedback! We look forward to curating and delivering content that will help you and your organization continue to be part of what is right with the world. - [Welcome Survey](https://www.douglasshaw.com/welcome-survey/) - What Would You Like to Know More About? Thank you for taking the time to complete this short survey. The information we collect will be used to bring you the direct response fundraising content you want provided by our team at Douglas Shaw & Associates.*Indicates a required field - [Webinars](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/) - Douglas Shaw & Associates Resource Library These webinars are all free for you to watch at your convenience. There’s valuable information in each one, and they make for great direct response fundraising resources. We hope you find them useful for your organization. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you have regarding the - [Get Your Free Digital Audit](https://www.douglasshaw.com/get-your-free-digital-audit/) - Get Your Free Digital Audit Kick off the new year right and register for a complimentary digital audit. Our digital experts will review your online presence then make recommendations to increase engagement and optimize your digital program. Who It’s For: Nonprofits ready to grow digital revenue and engagement Teams who want clarity on where to focus - [2025 Digital Giving in the Faith Sector](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-digital-giving-in-the-faith-sector/) - Online giving is changing rapidly—and ministries that adapt will grow! Digital Giving in the Faith Sector, a benchmark report from Douglas Shaw & Associates and Fundraise Up, distills the latest data and proven tactics that help your donation pages convert more visitors into ministry partners and donors. Built from real results and data across faith-based - [2025 Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-year-end-digital-fundraising-guide-2/) - December remains the heavyweight champion of nonprofit fundraising. For most organizations, December constitutes roughly 40% of their annual online income, with December 31 alone contributing 28% of this revenue. The fact is, the decisions you make right now will determine how you finish this year and start the next one. That’s why we’ve created our - [Creative Solutions](https://www.douglasshaw.com/digital-solutions-1006/) - Digital Solutions That Lead to Greater Impact! Real Results. Real Mission Impact. Our clients are seeing: 📈 50.12% increase in revenue year-over-year in December alone 🙌 27.97% more donations over the entire year 🎁 24.3% more gifts in December This is more than just growth. It’s lives changed, communities supported, and missions advanced. We Want - [Digital Innovation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/digital-innovation/) - The Fundraising Front Runner Digital Innovation Emerging Trends In digital fundraising, there’s only one constant—change! And today, the digital space is the fastest-growing fundraising channel with the potential to yield explosive results. So the question becomes: How do you innovate to ensure you continue to grow? At Douglas Shaw & Associates, we understand the importance - [Multichannel Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/multichannel-fundraising/) - The Fundraising Amplifier Multichannel Fundraising What Is Multichannel Fundraising? Multichannel fundraising is much like a strip of Velcro—on one side, there are hundreds of tiny hooks, while the other side is full of corresponding loops. If you connect one hook and loop, you’ll get a slight lift. Connect them all, and you’ll exponentially increase their - [Custom Strategies](https://www.douglasshaw.com/custom-strategies/) - Strategic Analysis In Fundraising Custom Strategies Direct response fundraising is where data and creativity meet. We specialize in creating data-inspired omnichannel campaigns that have the power to propel your organization forward with fundraising that captures your voice—and your donors’ hearts. Track, Measure, Grow Data is the foundation beneath everything we do. Our data scientists thrive - [YE25](https://www.douglasshaw.com/ye25/) - 5 Proven Strategies to Maximize Your Year-End Fundraising Revenue 1. Test your donation form before December Does it work well on mobile? Is it quick and easy to give? Do your thank-you messages arrive in inboxes? Does your welcome series trigger appropriately? Now is the time to make sure things are working and working well - [2025 Donor Experience Scorecard](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-donor-experience-scorecard-5/) - Take your online donor engagement to the next level by downloading our extensive 2025 Donor Experience Scorecard today. Many organizations miss key opportunities to nurture their early relationships with new donors. After analyzing how more than 100 nonprofits engage with new online donors, examining the content, frequency, and strategies behind their post-gift communications, this Scorecard - [2025 Donor Experience Scorecard](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-donor-experience-scorecard-thank-you/) - Thank you for requesting your copy of our latest research, the 2025 Donor Experience Scorecard DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY NOW - [2025 Donor Experience Scorecard](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-donor-experience-scorecard-2/) - 2025 Donor Experience Scorecard An examination of how organizations welcome and communicate with new donors following their first online gift to lay a foundation for long-term support. - [It's Personal](https://www.douglasshaw.com/itspersonal/) - FIND OUT WHY OUR WORK FOR YOU IS PERSONAL! You’ll see it in our eyes and hear it in our voices—this is more than a job. We pour ourselves into our work because we believe in it—deeply . . . this is why we show up every day, and why we give of ourselves to - [Post Articles](https://www.douglasshaw.com/post-articles/) - [It's Personal](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal/) - GREAT FUNDRAISING RESULTS ARE WITHIN REACH! With more than 28 years of experience serving nonprofits through donor focused direct response solutions—custom built to get you the outstanding results you are looking for—we are looking forward to partnering with you. Sign up for our newsletter today to receive fundraising tips and resources from our team, directly - [It's Personal](https://www.douglasshaw.com/its-personal-2/) - New videos are coming soon to help demonstrate why helping you is truly personal for the team at Douglas Shaw & Associates. - [January Thank You (0996)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-january-thank-you/) - Thank you! The How to Assess the Health of Your Donor File webisodes will be coming to your inbox soon. We hope this will inspire you to think differently about how you communicate with your donors. And we look forward to partnering with you in the future to enhance your donor communication. Thank you again for - [2024 Donor Health Webisode Four (0996)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-health-webisode-four-0996/) - If you really want your organization to grow, you have to know what makes your donors tick—what motivates their hearts to give, volunteer, and take action. Watch this episode where we show you how to translate your data into effective strategies to foster donor loyalty and sustainable growth. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: The Value of - [2024 Donor Health Webisode Three (0996)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-health-webisode-three-0996/) - Not all reports are created equal when it comes to tracking your overall donor file health. In this next episode, we get into the details to show you how these three essential reports will radically change the way you see your donor file—and how you can use them to inspire amazing growth. MISSED AN EPISODE? - [2024 Donor Health Webisode Two (0996)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-health-webisode-two-0996/) - This episode will help you navigate the massive forest of your donor file health. Knowing and measuring these four key indicators will set you free to see BOTH the forest and the trees as you plan for your future growth. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: The Value of Your Data - [2024 Donor Health Webisode One (0996)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-health-webisode-one-0996/) - Your donor data is invaluable. And knowing how to interpret it can set you up to build campaigns that resonate with donors and reach their hearts with opportunities to give generously. So join us as we get started and discover what you can find in your donor data. - [2024 November Donor Health Webisode Five (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-webisode-five-0890/) - Giving days aren’t simply one and done strategies—or they shouldn’t be. But how can you know if they’re truly successful . . . or whether you should invest more in optimizing the experience? Look no further than this final episode where we show what you need to predict the future of your giving day campaigns - [2024 November Donor Health Webisode Four (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-webisode-four-0890/) - Donor retention and acquisition are likely two holes in your organization’s fundraising ship. It might seem like there’s nothing you can do to stop the continual leak. But is that really true? Watch this episode where we dive deep into the data to uncover the potential that a strong giving day campaign can have on - [2024 November Donor Health Webisode Three (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-webisode-three-0890/) - Creating an amazing giving day experience is kind of like cooking with a recipe—you need the right mix of ingredients working together for success. But what’s the right mix for you? We share in this next episode, providing the right mix of media and advertising with real-life examples you can glean from. MISSED AN EPISODE? - [2024 November Donor Health Webisode Two (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-webisode-two-0890/) - This episode includes what you need to know about storytelling in fundraising—and the key must-have elements to tell a powerful, inspiring giving day story! We talk about clarity, emotion, urgency, and calls to action while also sharing specific examples so you can see how it all works “in the wild!” MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: - [2024 November Donor Health Webisode One (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-webisode-one-0890/) - This is the foundation you need for your giving day strategy. You can’t afford to get this wrong. That’s why we walk through the planning steps from defining goals to building the right team . . . - [2024 November Webisodes Registration (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-webisodes-registration-0890/) - Giving days—like GivingTuesday—are a great part of a digital fundraising plan because they can get your message in front of an audience that you might not otherwise see, and provide an opportunity to inspire giving. That’s why we are excited to release our free Create a Successful Giving Day webisode series that’s filled with practical - [2024 September Webisode Four (0889)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-september-webisode-four/) - Achieving your revenue goals relies heavily on the efficacy of your communication efforts: Can you resonate with your donors, inspiring them to take action now and complete their donations to your cause? In this episode, we highlight tactics that work, and do not work, in year-end fundraising strategy. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: Getting the - [2024 September Webisode Two (0889)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-september-webisode-two/) - How do you inspire your donors to give—especially at year-end? This episode addresses the question by presenting data-driven tactics that you can apply immediately to your communications. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: Getting the Message Opened - [2024 September Webisode Three (0889)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-september-webisode-three/) - On the last day of the year, inboxes are inundated with communications from other nonprofit organizations and for-profit companies, creating clutter for donors to sift through. And personal distractions also loom large, with New Year’s events and family celebrations distracting donors from their initial intention to give. In this episode, we share key insights you - [2024 September Webisode One (0889)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-september-webisode-one/) - By the first part of December the stage is set and the foundation laid for the intense digital fundraising efforts of the last few days of the year. This is your opportunity to inform your donors of what is coming in the days ahead. But none of this can happen if you don’t get your - [2024 July Webisode Five (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisode-five/) - In this episode, the rubber meets the road and we take all the theory we’ve discussed about testing and apply it in a real digital test—building and executing an effective test and reviewing the results. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: Why Testing is Important Episode 2: The Anatomy of a Good Test Episode 3: When Not to Test - [Data And Analytics](https://www.douglasshaw.com/data-and-analytics/) - Advance Technology In Fundraising Data & Analytics All roads lead to DATA. Whether you need to find more donors, raise more money, or grow your impact. Our data scientists will give you the edge you need, utilizing emerging trends, artificial intelligence, advanced technologies, data modeling, digital innovations, and more. As a trusted partner, we’ll guide - [Creative Solutions](https://www.douglasshaw.com/creative-solutions/) - The Fundraising Storyteller Creative Solutions Custom Creative. Inspiring Engagement. Lasting Impact. At Douglas Shaw & Associates, we understand the power of compelling visual impressions and inspiring content. We partner with our clients in creating meaningful connections through custom creative that strengthens donor engagement year over year. Through our custom copy and design services, we collaborate - [2024 July Webisode Four (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisode-four/) - In this episode, we make testing a print communication come to life—taking all the theory we’ve discussed about testing and apply it in a real scenario. You’ll see firsthand how we built and executed an effective test, and we’ll review the results. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: Why Testing is Important Episode 2: The Anatomy of a - [2024 July Webisode Three (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisode-three/) - In this episode, you’ll learn the must-haves you need to determine whether or not running a test is worth your investment of time, money, and effort. After watching this episode, you’ll be more equipped than ever to execute a test that will reveal actionable insights. MISSED AN EPISODE? In this episode, you’ll learn the must-haves - [2024 July Webisode Two (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisode-two/) - There’s nothing more aggravating than going through all the motions of running a test only to realize you didn’t learn anything from the results. It feels like a waste of time and money—money that could’ve been stewarded towards your mission. We’ve been there. And we’ve learned that there’s a checklist to follow when creating a - [2024 July Webisode One (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisode-one/) - Stop guessing and start gaining more generosity and engagement from your donors through testing. Donors will tell you what they like and what motivates them through actions. In this episode, we’re going to dive deeper into Why Testing is Important to help you build a strong and practical foundation for testing in your organization’s communications. - [Donor Focus Newsletter Sign Up Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/sign-up-thank-you/) - Thank you for your submission! - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-thank-you-3/) - Thank you! Thank you for requesting your copy of our latest research, the 2024 Donor Experience Scorecard. The research is available now and you can download your copy now. At Douglas Shaw & Associates, we embrace the belief that donors have a heart to contribute to positive change in the world. This is evident in - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-thank-you/) - Thank you! The 2024 Donor Experience Scorecard webisodes will be coming to your inbox soon. We hope this will inspire you to think differently about how you communicate with your donors. And we look forward to partnering with you in the future to enhance your donor communication. Thank you again for your interest in our - [2024 Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-year-end-digital-fundraising-guide-thank-you/) - Thank you for your interest in our Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide! We’re thrilled to hear that you’re eager to enhance your fundraising efforts with proven strategies and insights. This guide is designed to pull back the curtain on successful year-end fundraising tactics. By reviewing the data and implementing these strategies, you’ll be equipped to not only - [2024 November Thank You (0890)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-november-thank-you-0890/) - Thank you! The Create a Successful Giving Day webisodes will be coming to your inbox soon. We hope this will inspire you to think differently about how you communicate with your donors. And we look forward to partnering with you in the future to enhance your donor communication. Thank you again for your interest in our - [2024 September Thank You (0889)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-september-webisodes-thank-you/) - Thank you! The 2024 Year-End Audit webisodes will be coming to your inbox soon. We hope this will inspire you to think differently about how you communicate with your donors. And we look forward to partnering with you in the future to enhance your donor communication. Thank you again for your interest in our research, and - [Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide Thank You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/year-end-digital-thank-you/) - Thank you! Thank you for requesting our latest research, the Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide! Your download link will be sent to your email once it is released. While you wait, we invite you to explore our website to learn more about how we can help your organization improve its donor engagement and fundraising results. At - [2024 July Webisodes Registration (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisodes-registration/) - Can you imagine a world where you no longer have to guess about what your donors want from you? It’s possible! And it happens through disciplined testing—regardless of the medium. But the key is knowing HOW to test effectively, then applying your learnings so you can maximize fundraising dollars. That’s why we’ve created our Move the - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode Registration](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-registration/) - We are excited to release the 2024 Donor Experience Scorecard, a research study focusing on donor communication—more specifically, how nonprofits connect with new donors in their first few months on the donor file. This is a critical time in the donor journey because it’s often when donors are “testing the waters” to learn more and - [2024 Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-year-end-digital-fundraising-guide/) - For numerous organizations, December constitutes roughly 30% of their annual income, with December 31 alone contributing 27% of this revenue. It’s a critical time for fundraisers to have effective, revenue driving strategies in place to continue growing their organization’s impact in the year ahead. That’s why we’ve created our Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide. Pulling back - [2024 September Webisodes Registration (0889)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-september-webisodes-registration/) - We are excited to release our free 2024 Year-End Digital Fundraising Guide that’s filled with practical key insights, data, tools, and strategic approaches that nonprofits have used to effectively engage donors during year-end—a critical time in the fundraising year. By examining the practices of 75 nonprofit organizations, we looked at the communication channels used, the - [2025 January Webisodes Registration (0996)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2025-january-webisodes-registration-0996/) - Understanding your data is key to unlocking the full potential of your donor file. That’s why we’re excited to release our free How to Assess the Health of Your Donor File webisode series that’s filled with practical insights to help you understand what your data is telling you! Stop guessing and start growing by registering - [2024 July Webisodes Registration Thank You (0888)](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-july-academy-webisodes-registration-ty/) - Thank you! Thank you for registering for our “Move the Needle with Testing” webisode series! We’re thrilled you’re joining us on this journey to uncover what your donors truly want and need. By embracing the power of disciplined testing, you’re taking a proactive step toward maximizing your fundraising efforts. Our series is crafted to provide - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode Three](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-three/) - In this episode, we tackle the topic of communication tools like newsletters, annual reports, and impact reports. These pieces provide transparency and reinforce how the nonprofit genuinely uses donors’ gifts in the way they want them used. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: Donor Communication Trends Episode 2: The Importance of a Mailed Receipt - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode Four](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-four/) - Unpacking the 2024 Donor Experience Scorecard has allowed us to present a lot of data, trends, and highlights to you. In this episode, we want to offer some practical strategies for you to consider as you analyze your own donor communication. MISSED AN EPISODE? Episode 1: Donor Communication Trends Episode 2: The Importance of a Mailed Receipt - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode Five](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-five/) - The 2024 Donor Experience Scorecard was created because donors are the lifeblood of any nonprofit organization. In this episode, we recap our findings and offer a key takeaway for you. As you spend some time focusing on how you can better support, thank, and grow relationships with these valued partners, we want to support your - [Year-End Digital Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/year-end-digital-fundraising/) - Sign up today and be among the first to receive the Year-End Digital Fundraising Strategy Guide! Last December our team embarked on a journey to identify and document key trends in nonprofits that could help increase results. We analyzed year-end digital fundraising campaigns from 70 organizations, looking at the channels they used for communication, the - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode Two](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-two/) - One of the most frequent questions we hear at Douglas Shaw & Associates addresses whether a printed receipt should be sent to online-only donors. And while there are multiple reasons this question is asked, it often boils down to an organization having limited time or funds to make this a priority. This episode addresses the - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard Webisode One](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-webisode-one/) - Donors have diversified their communication preferences. Some may prefer traditional avenues like direct mail or phone calls, while others engage more readily through social media, email, or websites. In this episode, we unpack donor communication trends and highlights that help ensure a cohesive and integrated donor experience. - [2024 Donor Experience Scorecard](https://www.douglasshaw.com/2024-donor-experience-scorecard-3/) - Today is a great day to take your donor engagement to the next level by signing up to receive our extensive 2024 Donor Experience Scorecard. 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Douglas K. Shaw Chairman/CEO Doug provides vision, leadership, and strategic thinking to an exceptionally talented group of professionals committed to being a part of what is right with the world through Douglas Shaw & Associates and the nonprofit organizations they’re privileged to serve.He has been involved in ## Webinar Thanks - [May 2022 Big Dreams, Big Goals, Big Impact](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/big-dreams-big-goals-big-impact-2/) - Big Dreams, Big Goals, Big Impact There is a way to generate more funding to grow your organization and better serve your community . . . and one of the best ways to sustainably increase your funding comes from donor file growth. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? - [April 2021 Webinar Digital Metrics That Can Make the Difference](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/apr-2021/) - Digital Metrics That Can Make the Difference You can measure almost anything with analytics online, but it can be overwhelming! With the flood of information, how do you know the right places to focus on? What adjustments will have the most impact on your digital fundraising program? Need a partner who's just as committed to - [June 2021 Webinar Using Digital Advertising to Find Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/jun-2021/) - Using Digital Advertising to Find Donors The digital advertising world is rapidly becoming a much larger part of how organizations raise funds and bring in new donors. Organizations increased their digital advertising spend by 17% in the last year. But digital advertising isn’t so straightforward. This ever-changing landscape can keep you guessing, and wrong decisions - [August 2021 Webinar Why Donors Quit Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/aug-2021/) - Why Do Donors Quit Giving? Most donors don’t know they’ve lapsed in their giving to your organization. Many don’t intentionally stop giving . . . so why do they quit? And, how can you prevent them from lapsing? Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation - [October 2021 Reducing Donor Churn](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/oct-2021/) - Reducing Donor Churn There are donors who give regularly, and then there are donors who give once and never respond again. Donor churn is costly, and reducing it is key to lifelong success as an organization. Learn how to turn new donors into regular ones. You’ll evaluate various aspects of your program, including messaging, channel - [December 2021 8 Last-Minute Adjustments to Boost Year-End Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/dec-2021/) - 8 Last-Minute Adjustments to Boost Year-End Giving The calendar year end is here, and statistics say that on average, organizations see one-third of all their charitable giving in the month of December! What can you still implement to make your year-end fundraising yield even better results? Need a partner who's just as committed to your - [January 2019 Data to Start Your New Year Right](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/jan-2019/) - Data to Start Your New Year Right Don’t Guess! Get your direct response fundraising off to the right start by knowing what data you need to analyze and how it can be used to get better results. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [September 2020 Successful Strategies for Boosting Digital Year End Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/sept-2020/) - Successful Strategies for Boosting Digital Year End Fundraising Whether you’re already well into year-end planning or just getting started, this webinar will help you focus your plan on the key elements that will position your organization for successful results. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a - [July 2020 Adapt Your Fundraising to Strengthen Donor Trust](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/july-2020/) - Adapt Your Fundraising to Strengthen Donor Trust Building trust is key to communicating with donors. This webinar will show you how to strengthen your relationship with your donors before, during, and after a crisis. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [June 2020 Eliminate Fundraising Pitfalls in Times of Crisis](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/june-2020/) - Eliminate Fundraising Pitfalls in Times of Crisis As an organization, it can be incredibly difficult to know when and how to respond to times of global and local crisis. This webinar will show you how to appropriately and relevantly respond as an organization when emergencies occur. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? - [May 2020 COVID-19 Where Do We Go From Here](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/may-2020/) - COVID-19 Where Do We Go From Here Applying learnings from previous major crisis situations we can confidently say: direct response fundraising will help you get through this! This webinar includes strategies YOU can use to continue generating donor support for your organization during this crisis. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you - [March 2020 Data CoOp Roundtable](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/mar-2020/) - Data CoOp Roundtable Cooperative databases (co-ops) are one of the most vital and efficient ways to reach the right number of donors at the right value. In this webinar, you’ll hear from the best in the data co-op business, including Wiland, Abacus, Apogee, and I-Behavior, as they share strategy and tactics. Need a partner who's - [January 2020 Keys to Building a Monthly Donor Program](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/jan-2020/) - Keys to Building a Monthly Donor Program A well-designed monthly donor program increases long-term donor value, while limiting the monthly ups and downs of regular donation revenue. This webinar covers how to build a monthly donor program that will grow—from the foundation up. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you - [Great Testing That Works](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/sept-2019/) - Great Testing That Works Testing in fundraising is critical, because understanding your donors—and how they respond—is vital to getting great results. This webinar will provide insight into the fundamentals of how to conduct a viable test and best practices for how to make it work for your organization. Need a partner who's just as committed to - [July 2019 Emerging Trends in Digital, Data, and Direct Mail](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/july-2019/) - Emerging Trends in Digital, Data, and Direct Mail How do you prepare for tomorrow’s direct response trends if they’re not on your radar today? This webinar will look into the future of fundraising by reviewing emerging trends across all channels of fundraising communications. Along with how to avoid potential pitfalls to maximize your messaging! Need a - [May 2019 Understanding Generational Giving at your Nonprofit](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/may-2019/) - Understanding Generational Giving at your Nonprofit This webinar examines the giving habits and unique characteristics of Boomers, Generation Xers, and Millennials and how your organization can be better equipped to reach them. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [March 2019 Raising the Bar on Your Multichannel Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/mar-2019/) - Raising the Bar on Your Multichannel Fundraising In this webinar, we identify the key elements in successful multi-channel fundraising campaigns, so you can optimize your own fundraising communications and get the most out of your print, online, and social media. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start - [November 2018 Put Gratitude Back Into Your Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/nov-2018/) - Put Gratitude Back Into Your Fundraising There is a science behind why donors give to charities and nonprofits, and it’s a behavior that can be directly influenced by what we, as fundraisers, communicate.This webinar discusses three ways you can influence your donors’ giving patterns and potentially increase retention rates. Need a partner who's just as - [September 2018 Finish Your Fundraising Year Strong!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/sept-2018/) - Finish Your Fundraising Year Strong! Learn how to prepare for year-end NOW, so you can make this your best fundraising year-end ever! Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [July 2018 Getting Great Results From Your Creative](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/july-2018/) - Getting Great Results From Your Creative Learn practical lessons on how to use the unique style of fundraising writing and design to increase response and raise more money for your cause. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [March 2018 What is Your Data Telling You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/mar-2018/) - What is Your Data Telling You In this webinar, you will learn the benefits of measuring your donor file and understanding what your data is saying. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [March 2022 Donor Acquisition in the New Year](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/mar-2022/) - Donor Acquisition in the New Year Your organization may have benefited from a strong outpouring of new donor support over the past couple of years, but even if you haven’t, now is not the time to cut back on your donor acquisition program! Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you - [A Blueprint for Better Newsletters That Yield Better Fundraising Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/may-2022-a-blueprint-for-better-newsletters/) - A Blueprint for Better Newsletters That Yield Better Fundraising Results Newsletters offer a unique opportunity to engage your donors in an exciting, highly visual way—informing them of how greatly their generosity has benefitted your organization’s recipients, making a difference in their lives for many years to come. Need a partner who's just as committed to - [August 2022 What to Do When Your Cookie Crumbles?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/aug-2022/) - What to Do When Your Cookie Crumbles? Recent years have seen many changes in the world of digital advertising for nonprofits. Between iOS privacy changes, Facebook audience targeting limitations, and the third-party cookie going away in 2024 – it can be enough to send your mind spinning. Need a partner who's just as committed to - [September 2022 Fundraising to Make the Greatest Impact](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/august-2022-fundraising-to-make-the-greatest-impact/) - Fundraising to Make the Greatest Impact Dreaming big. Casting vision. That’s the exciting part—creating the ideal picture of how you want to make your greatest impact in the world. So, the real question becomes: How do you plan to get there? Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's - [November 2022 Preparing For The Unexpected](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/november-2022-fundraising-to-make-the-greatest-impact/) - Preparing For The Unexpected Year over year, data reveals that people want to give to worthy causes—even in seasons of crisis, disaster, and recession! So when change—the unexpected—comes, will your organization be positioned to effectively communicate with current and prospective donors who are ready to give? Need a partner who's just as committed to your - [January 2023 How to Make Your Fundraising Messaging Irresistible](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/how-to-make-your-fundraising-messaging-irresistable-2/) - Innovation Made Simple: Steps to Help Improve Your Fundraising Efforts Change is happening all around—technology breakthroughs, communication channels, giving platforms, and more. And as fundraisers, change makes us ask: “How can we keep up and continue to grow in an ever-changing world?” Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? - [May 23 The Donor Experience Scorecard: How to Keep New Donors Giving . . . And Giving Again](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/may-23-the-donor-experience-scorecard/) - The Donor Experience Scorecard: How to Keep New Donors Giving . . . And Giving Again During this webinar, you’ll hear from our Douglas Shaw & Associates team as they share their insights on fundraising communication strategies from 70 organizations, specifically exploring what works and what doesn’t. Need a partner who's just as committed to - [Course Correction: Using Real-Time Results to Guide Your Fundraising Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/course-correction-2/) - Course Correction: Using Real-Time Results to Guide Your Fundraising Strategy Are you struggling to keep up with the constantly changing fundraising landscape? Don’t worry, there is hope! Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [The Benefits and Challenges of AI-Powered Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/the-benefits-and-challenges-of-ai-powered-fundraising/) - The Benefits and Challenges of AI-Powered Fundraising In this webinar, we’ll delve into the captivating world of AI-driven fundraising and explore how it can supercharge your nonprofit’s impact. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [Year End Strategies For Your Digital Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/year-end-strategies-for-your-digital-fundraising/) - Year End Strategies for Your Digital Fundraising In this webinar, we’ll share the strategies nonprofits used to make their year-end fundraising campaigns stand out. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [Cracking the Code: Strategies for Effective Donor Segmentation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/cracking-the-code/) - Cracking the Code: Strategies for Effective Donor Segmentation In this webinar, you’ll hear from our Douglas Shaw & Associates team as they share insights on the importance of a robust and flexible strategy that allows you to reach the hearts of your donors, keeping them engaged in the incredible work they’re helping you achieve. Need - [Is Your Offer Fundable?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/is-your-offer-fundable/) - Is Your Offer Fundable? During our time together, we’ll explore the vital components that capture donors’ attention, inspire their generosity, and ultimately forge a lasting connection between your organization and your donors. Need a partner who's just as committed to your work as you are? Let's start a conversation today! - [December 2020 Unlocking Fundraising Success: 5 Keys in Your Data](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/dec-2020/) - Unlocking Fundraising Success: 5 Keys in Your Data Data is one of the most powerful tools to help unlock your success as an organization. But there’s so much data to look through when it comes to fundraising. What do you focus on? How do you analyze it? How can you go about getting more and - [January 2021 Webinar Planning for Unpredictable Times](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinarthanks/jan-2021/) - Planning for Unpredictable Times: Key Updates to Make Your 2021 Fundraising Plan The only thing certain about 2021 is uncertainty. You can’t anticipate your donors’ personal circumstances or their confidence to keep giving as usual. Now more than ever, you must be attentive to your donors. Even amidst the swirl of uncertainty, there are action ## Webinars - [A Blueprint for Better Newsletters That Yield Better Fundraising Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/a-blueprint-for-better-newsletters-that-yield-better-fundraising-results/) - Your organization may have benefited from a strong outpouring of new donor support over the past couple of years, but even if you haven’t, now is not the time to cut back on your donor acquisition program! - [Planning for Unpredictable Times: Key Updates to Make Your 2021 Fundraising Plan](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/planning-unpredictable-times/) - The only thing certain about 2021 is uncertainty. Now more than ever, you must be attentive to your donors. Even amidst the swirl of uncertainty, there are action steps you can take to start the year off strong. This will be the best hour you spend at work in January as you examine ways to strengthen the bond with your donors for maximum giving in 2021. - [What's Missing: Digital Metrics That Can Make the Difference](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/whats-missing-digital-metrics-can-make-difference/) - You can measure almost anything with analytics online, but it can be overwhelming! With the flood of information, how do you know the right places to focus on? What adjustments will have the most impact on your digital fundraising program? - [Using Digital Advertising to Find Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/using-digital-advertising-find-donors/) - The digital advertising world is rapidly becoming a much larger part of how organizations raise funds and bring in new donors. Organizations increased their digital advertising spend by 17% in the last year. But digital advertising isn't so straightforward. This ever-changing landscape can keep you guessing, and wrong decisions will cost your organization money. - [Why Do Donors Quit Giving?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/why-donors-quit-giving/) - Most donors don't know they've lapsed in their giving to your organization. Many don't intentionally stop giving . . . so why do they quit? And, how can you prevent them from lapsing? - [Reducing Donor Churn](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/reduce-donor-churn/) - There are donors who give regularly, and then there are donors who give once and never respond again. Donor churn is costly, and reducing it is key to lifelong success as an organization. - [8 Last-Minute Adjustments to Boost Year-End Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/boost-year-end-giving/) - The calendar year end is here, and statistics say that on average, organizations see one-third of all their charitable giving in the month of December! What can you still implement to make your year-end fundraising yield even better results? - [Data to Start Your New Year Right](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/data-to-start-your-new-year/) - Don’t Guess! Get your direct response fundraising off to the right start by knowing what data you need to analyze and how it can be used to get better results. - [Unlocking Fundraising Success: 5 Keys in Your Data](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/fundraising-success-5-keys-in-your-data/) - Don’t Guess! Get your direct response fundraising off to the right start by knowing what data you need to analyze and how it can be used to get better results. - [Successful Strategies for Boosting Digital Year-End Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/boosting-year-end-fundraising/) - Whether you’re already well into year-end planning or just getting started, this webinar will help you focus your plan on the key elements that will position your organization for successful results. - [Adapt Your Fundraising to Strengthen Donor Trust](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/strengthen-donor-trust/) - Building trust is key to communicating with donors. This webinar will show you how to strengthen your relationship with your donors before, during, and after a crisis. - [Eliminate Fundraising Pitfalls in Times of Crisis](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/eliminate-fundraising-pitfalls-in-crisis/) - As an organization, it can be incredibly difficult to know when and how to respond to times of global and local crisis. This webinar will show you how to appropriately and relevantly respond as an organization when emergencies occur. - [COVID-19 Where Do We Go From Here](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/covid-19-where-do-we-go/) - After applying learnings from previous major crisis situations, we can confidently say: direct response fundraising will help you get through this! This webinar contains strategies YOU can use to continue generating donor support for your organization during this crisis. - [Data Co-Op Roundtable](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/data-coop-roundtable/) - Cooperative databases (co-ops) are one of the most vital and efficient ways to reach the right number of donors at the right value. In this webinar, you’ll hear from the best in the data co-op business, including Wiland, Abacus, Apogee, and I-Behavior, as they share strategy and tactics. - [Big Dreams, Big Goals, Big Impact](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/may-2022/) - Your organization may have benefited from a strong outpouring of new donor support over the past couple of years, but even if you haven’t, now is not the time to cut back on your donor acquisition program! - [Keys to Building a Monthly Donor Program](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/building-a-monthly-donor-program/) - A well-designed monthly donor program increases long-term donor value, while limiting the monthly ups and downs of regular donation revenue. This webinar covers how to build a monthly donor program that will grow—from the foundation up. - [Emerging Trends in Digital, Data, and Direct Mail](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/emerging-trends-in-fundraising/) - This webinar will look into the future of fundraising by reviewing emerging trends across all channels of fundraising communications—along with how to avoid potential pitfalls to maximize your messaging! - [Understanding Generational Giving at Your Nonprofit](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/understanding-generational-giving/) - This webinar examines the giving habits and unique characteristics of Boomers, Generation Xers, and Millennials and how your organization can be better equipped to reach them. - [Raising the Bar on Your Multichannel Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/raising-the-bar-on-your-multichannel-fundraising/) - Do you ever wonder if direct mail is on the way out? Are you struggling to keep up with what’s new in digital and social media? This webinar will provide answers to relieve the pressure of building multi-channel fundraising strategies with limited resources. - [Finish Your Fundraising Year Strong!](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/finish-your-fundraising-year-strong/) - Many organizations are missing out on what is the biggest gift-giving time of year. But all is not lost. With the right strategies in place, you can finish this calendar year strong! - [Put Gratitude Back Into Your Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/gratitude-back-into-your-fundraising/) - There is a science behind why donors give to charities and nonprofits, and it’s a behavior that can be directly influenced by what we, as fundraisers, communicate. This webinar discusses three ways that you can influence your donors’ giving patterns and potentially increase retention rates. - [Getting Great Results from Your Creative](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/getting-great-results-from-your-creative/) - Your direct response creative has the potential to improve your results and better engage your donors—if it’s done right. This webinar teaches practical lessons on how to use the unique style of fundraising writing and design to increase response and raise more money for your cause. - [What Is Your Data Telling You](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/what-is-your-data-telling/) - Understanding how your data works and what the numbers are telling you is critical to a successful direct response campaign. In this webinar, you will learn the benefits of measuring your donor file and understanding what your data is saying. - [Donor Acquisition in the New Year](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/donor-acquisition-new-year/) - Your organization may have benefited from a strong outpouring of new donor support over the past couple of years, but even if you haven’t, now is not the time to cut back on your donor acquisition program! - [What to Do When Your Cookie Crumbles?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/what-to-do-when-your-cookie-crumbles-2022/) - Recent years have seen many changes in the world of digital advertising for nonprofits. Between iOS privacy changes, Facebook audience targeting limitations, and the third-party cookie going away in 2024 - it can be enough to send your mind spinning. - [Fundraising to Make the Greatest Impact](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/fundraising-to-make-the-greatest-impact/) - Recent years have seen many changes in the world of digital advertising for nonprofits. Between iOS privacy changes, Facebook audience targeting limitations, and the third-party cookie going away in 2024 - it can be enough to send your mind spinning. - [Preparing for The Unexpected](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/preparing-for-the-unexpected/) - Year over year, data reveals that people want to give to worthy causes—even in seasons of crisis, disaster, and recession! So when change—the unexpected—comes, will your organization be positioned to effectively communicate with current and prospective donors who are ready to give? - [How to Make Your Fundraising Messaging Irresistible](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/how-to-make-your-fundraising-messaging-irresistable/) - Year over year, data reveals that people want to give to worthy causes—even in seasons of crisis, disaster, and recession! So when change—the unexpected—comes, will your organization be positioned to effectively communicate with current and prospective donors who are ready to give? - [The Donor Experience Scorecard](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/webinar-the-donor-experience-scorecard/) - Change is happening all around—technology breakthroughs, communication channels, giving platforms, and more. And as fundraisers, change makes us ask: “How can we keep up and continue to grow in an ever-changing world?” - [Course Correction: Using Real-Time Results to Guide Your Fundraising Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/course-correction/) - Are you struggling to keep up with the constantly changing fundraising landscape? Don’t worry, there is hope! - [The Benefits and Challenges of AI-Powered Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/the-benefits-and-challenges-of-ai-powered-fundraising-2/) - Are you struggling to keep up with the constantly changing fundraising landscape? Don’t worry, there is hope! - [Year End Strategies for Your Digital Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/year-end-strategies/) - Are you struggling to keep up with the constantly changing fundraising landscape? Don’t worry, there is hope! - [Cracking the Code: Strategies for Effective Donor Segmentation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/cracking-the-code/) - Join us as our team walks you through the art and science of crafting fundable offers that deeply resonate with your donors . . . - [Is Your Offer Fundable?](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/is-your-offer-fundable/) - Join us as our team walks you through the art and science of crafting fundable offers that deeply resonate with your donors . . . - [Great Testing That Works](https://www.douglasshaw.com/webinars/testing-that-works/) - When you think about making your direct response fundraising as impactful as possible, you know testing is important. But how do you make sure you’re testing the right things the right way? This webinar will provide insight into the fundamentals of conducting a viable test and best practices for how to make it work for your organization. ## Products - [CURATIVE CULTURE STEPPING AWAY FROM A TOXIC WORKPLACE](https://www.douglasshaw.com/product/curative-culture-stepping-away-from-a-toxic-workplace/) - In his newest book, Douglas Shaw redefines a healthy work culture, based on his 45+ years of experience leading teams and guiding organizations across the country. Curative Culture | Stepping Away from a Toxic Workplace offers real-world examples for leaders who want to step away from a toxic environment, build a more profitable business, and achieve excellence. Through thoughtful stories and practical insight, Doug invites leaders and teams to imagine a better way of working—rooted in trust, dignity, and shared humanity. - [The Six Essentials of Rapidly Growing Nonprofits](https://www.douglasshaw.com/product/six-essentials-rapidly-growing-nonprofits/) - What are the common traits all rapidly growing nonprofits share? This book holds the answers to this oft-asked question! A must read for everyone who serves by working in a nonprofit organization, including board members, CEOs, and Development Officers. Written by Douglas K. Shaw, Founder/Chairman of the Board and CEO of Douglas Shaw & Associates. - [The Rules of Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/product/the-rules-of-fundraising-2/) - This book is an authoritative guide for nonprofits. There are inviolate rules for successful fundraising. Most people don't know them, and that includes nonprofit board members, CEO's and development officers. Douglas K. Shaw, Founder/Chairman of the Board and CEO of Douglas Shaw & Associates, has taken his 45+ years of fundraising experience and written them down (for perhaps the very first time). This volume contains 35 of the most fundamental rules, and explains them with entertaining stories. Not following these rules will likely lead you to a much longer learning curve, and quite possibly failure. - [More Rules of Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/product/more-rules-of-fundraising/) - In his second book, Douglas K. Shaw, Founder/Chairman of the Board and CEO of Douglas Shaw & Associates, continues on where The Rules of Fundraising leaves off. An additional 35 rules, never before written down, that must be used in order to be a success in your fundraising efforts. ## staff - [Robert Johnson](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/robert-johnson/) - [Mindy Sherfy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/mindy-sherfy/) - [Aubrey Tansley](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/aubrey-tansley/) - [Keith Cleghorn](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/keith-cleghorn/) - [Charlotte Barry](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/charlotte-barry/) - [Mark Mangin](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/mark-mangin/) - [Wiley Stinnett](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/wiley-stinnett/) - [Amy Sewell](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/amy-sewell/) - [Douglas K. Shaw](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/douglas-k-shaw/) - [Pam Snyders](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/pam-snyders/) - [Julianne Donnelly](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/julianne-donnelly/) - [Graham Shaw](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/graham-shaw/) - [Chuck Wolf](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff/chuck-wolf/) ## Categories - [Leadership and Personal Development](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/leadership-personal-development/) - [Donor Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-acquisition/) - [Digital Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/digital-fundraising/) - [Ask Wiley](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/ask-wiley/) - [Case Studies](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/case-studies/) - [Coaching](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/coaching/) - [Data & Analytics](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/data-analytics/) - [Digital](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/digital/) - [Direct Mail](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/direct-mail/) - [Direct Response Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/direct-response-fundraising/) - [Donor Focus](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus/) - [Donor Focused Communication](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focused-communication/) - [Donor Focused Newsletter](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focused-newsletter/) - [Events](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/events/) - [Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/fundraising/) - [Latest News](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/latest-news/) - [Live the Give](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/live-the-give/) - [News](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/news/) - [Partners](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/partners/) - [Rules of Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/rules-of-fundraising/) - [Upcoming Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/upcoming-webinar/) - [Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/webinar/) - [Test Category](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/test-category/) - [Donor Focus August 2022](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-august-2022/) - [Donor Focus October 2022](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-october-2022/) - [Donor Focus 2023 February](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-2023-february/) - [Donor Focus 2023 June](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-2023-june/) - [Donor Focus August 2023](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-august-2023/) - [Donor Focus September 2023](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-september-2023/) - [Donor Focus August 2024](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-august-2024/) - [Thanksgiving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/thanksgiving/) - [Donor Focus 2026](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-2026/) - [Donor Focus May 2026](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-may-2026/) - [Donor Focus June 2026](https://www.douglasshaw.com/category/donor-focus-june-2026/) ## Tags - [Leadership Reflections](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/leadership-reflections/) - [Client Partnerships](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/client-partnerships/) - [Faith-based Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/faith-based-fundraising/) - [Personal Growth in Nonprofit Sector](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/personal-growth-nonprofit-sector/) - [Work-Life Balance](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/work-life-balance/) - [COVID-19 Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/covid-19-webinar/) - [Crisis Communication Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/crisis-communication-webinar/) - [Strategic Planning Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/strategic-planning-webinar/) - [Webinar Recordings](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/webinar-recordings/) - [Data & Analytics Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/data-analytics-webinar/) - [Digital Fundraising Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/digital-fundraising-webinar/) - [Measure Fundraising Results Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/measure-fundraising-results-webinar/) - [Multi-Channel Fundraising Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/multi-channel-fundraising-webinar/) - [Testing Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/testing-webinar/) - [Digital Advertising Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/digital-advertising-webinar/) - [Donor Cultivation Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-cultivation-webinar/) - [Donor Reactivation Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-reactivation-webinar/) - [Donor Relationships Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-relationships-webinar/) - [Donor Retention Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-retention-webinar/) - [Fundraising Appeals Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/fundraising-appeals-webinar/) - [Year End Fundraising Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/year-end-fundraising-webinar/) - [Donor Acquisition Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-acquisition-webinar/) - [Monthly Donors Webinar](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/monthly-donors-webinar/) - [#GivingTuesday](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/givingtuesday/) - [Advice from the Experts](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/advice-from-the-experts/) - [Analytics](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/analytics/) - [Best Practices](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/best-practices/) - [Broadcast](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/broadcast/) - [Communications & Messaging](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/communications-messaging/) - [Core Principals](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/core-principals/) - [Data](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/data/) - [Data & Analytics](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/data-analytics/) - [Digital Campaign](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/digital-campaign/) - [Direct Mail Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/direct-mail-fundraising/) - [Direct Response](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/direct-response/) - [Donor Acquisition](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-acquisition/) - [Donor Cultivation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-cultivation/) - [Donor Management Tools](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-management-tools/) - [Donor Retention](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-retention/) - [Effective Chief Development Officer](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/effective-chief-development-officer/) - [Email](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/email/) - [Email Performance](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/email-performance/) - [Facebook Campaign](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/facebook-campaign/) - [Fundraising Performance](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/fundraising-performance/) - [Fundraising Strategy & Planning](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/fundraising-strategy-planning/) - [How-to Guides](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/how-to-guides/) - [Ideas & Tips](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/ideas-tips/) - [Leadership & Managing People](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/leadership-managing-people/) - [Leadership Development](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/leadership-development/) - [Major Donor Cultivation](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/major-donor-cultivation/) - [Managing Organizations](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/managing-organizations/) - [Managing People](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/managing-people/) - [Managing Uncertainty](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/managing-uncertainty/) - [Managing Yourself](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/managing-yourself/) - [Monthly Donors](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/monthly-donors/) - [Multi-Channel Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/multi-channel-fundraising/) - [Nonprofit Texting](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/multi-generational-fundraising/) - [Online Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/online-fundraising/) - [Peer-To-Peer Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/peer-to-peer-fundraising/) - [Project Management](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/project-management/) - [Questions You Should be Asking](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/questions-you-should-be-asking/) - [Results](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/results/) - [Social Media Campaign](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/social-media-campaign/) - [Social Media Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/social-media-strategy/) - [Success Stories](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/success-stories/) - [Telemarketing](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/telemarketing/) - [Testing Strategy](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/testing-strategy/) - [Welcome Series](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/welcome-series/) - [Year End Fundraising Ideas](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/year-end-fundraising-ideas/) - [Year End Giving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/year-end-giving/) - [Digital Fundraising](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/digital-fundraising/) - [Leadership](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/leadership/) - [Best Practice](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/best-practice/) - [Donor Focus October 2022](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-october-2022/) - [Donor Focus January 2024](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-january-2024/) - [Donor Focus August 2024](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-august-2024/) - [Leadership and Personal Development](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/leadership-and-personal-development/) - [Donor Focus October 2024](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-october-2024/) - [Donor Focus April 2024](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-april-2024/) - [Donor Focus February 2025](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-february-2025/) - [Donor Focus December 2023](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-december-2023/) - [onor Focus December 2023](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/onor-focus-december-2023/) - [Donor Focus April 2025](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-april-2025/) - [Donor Focus July 2025](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/donor-focus-july-2025/) - [thanksgiving](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/thanksgiving/) - [christmas](https://www.douglasshaw.com/tag/christmas/) ## Product categories - [Books](https://www.douglasshaw.com/product-category/books/) ## Product tags - [Book](https://www.douglasshaw.com/product-tag/book/) ## Staff Categories - [Leadership Team](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff_categories/leadership-team/) - [Client Services](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff_categories/client-services/) - [Production](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff_categories/production/) - [Finance](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff_categories/finance/) - [Award Recipient](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff_categories/award-recipient/) - [Leadership Team Tenure Excluded](https://www.douglasshaw.com/staff_categories/leadership-team-tenure-excluded/)