Nonprofits Look For Ways to Court New Donors by Kelly Merry, Campaign Director As a Wesley Homes Foundation staff member, I strongly believe in the power of philanthropy to make stronger and better communities. I'm constantly on the lookout for what's happening within the philanthropic community. I was intrigued by a recent article in the Puget Sound Business Journal, "Beyond Black Tie," http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/print-edition/2013/04/12/beyond-black-tie-fundraisers.html. The article describes a current trend of nonprofit organizations moving away from elaborate black tie fundraising galas. They are scaling down their events to refocus on mission (no more large auctions!) or trying new, creative ways to connect with donors who support their cause. One example is a cancer institute touring donors through a lab where research is being done. This makes me wonder how Wesley Homes donors might feel most connected to the caring work we do here. What are some creative ways other non-profits have reached out to you? What has made you feel most appreciated or re-energized about an organization you have been supporting? What can we do to make you feel even better about being a part of the Wesley Homes family?
