Is It Harder to Fundraise from Women?

I recently asked a leader of advancement at a state college if she used different approaches in working with women versus men donors on her campus. This was not meant to be a trick question. I was very curious, as she had been a leader in sorority fundraising and had demonstrated an understanding of how […]

It’s Time to Question Fundraising “Best Practices”

When you started your nonprofit career, you probably heard things like: “If you want a major gift, make sure you mention who else is giving what.” “Competition and recognition work; identify who wants to lead the campaign and give the top gift.” “Access to leadership will incentivize donors.” “This is how you ask for an […]

The Engagement Trap: Moving from Meaningful Connection to Meaningful Gift

The research on women’s philanthropy highlights again and again that women want to be engaged before they are asked for a gift. For example, in their 2015 report, “Where Do Men and Women Give?,” the Women’s Philanthropy Institute found: Women report that they are motivated to give because they are on the board or volunteer […]

We Won’t Raise More Money Unless We Stop Acting Like All Donors Are White Men

Worrisome trends are emerging in U.S. philanthropy. Although overall charitable giving is growing, the share of Americans who give is declining, and the incidence of giving is down in most every age group. This giving gap opened because of complex reasons, but one thing is clear: We are seeing fewer Americans give because we are applying the […]

Connect with Empathy-Driven Women Donors by Telling Your Story

One report from the Women’s Philanthropy Institute found that “When women give, they tend to express a desire to help others, whereas men tend to focus on the benefits that come from being charitable.” Women’s giving is driven by empathy, the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings. When we see others in need, […]

Watch Kathleen Loehr’s Interview About Women’s Philanthropy

I was excited when Barett Christensen of Bentz Whaley Flessner asked me to be a guest on the BWF LIVE Fundraising show on Facebook. If you didn’t get a chance to tune in, you can watch the entire interview below. Bentz Whaley Flessner is a wonderful organization that aims to transform philanthropy by collaborating with […]

Do You Focus on Women? It Matters to Your Bottom Line.

I am committed to growing women’s philanthropy. Why? I’ve been in the philanthropic sector for 35 years as a woman donor, fundraiser and nonprofit leader. In that time, I’ve seen women’s power and earnings grow – and the philanthropic sector repeatedly fail to take full advantage of this new reality. I’m frustrated that the philanthropic […]