I remember many moons ago, I started my fundraising career eager to make a difference, connect with donors and help raise money to save and change the lives of the most vulnerable people in our community. I love the art of fundraising, but I was shy about the data or the science side of charities.

Close to two decades ago, I was patiently introduced to donor database analytics by Laird Eddy, the Founder of Gryphon Fundraising. His approach made so much sense to me and I immediately started to connect with more donors, raise more money and make strategic decisions about appeals and outreach.

This change in thinking – that I can work in BOTH the art and the science of fundraising – was the turning point for my career!

Years later I was quoted in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, a trusted and essential publication for fundraisers, on the topic of data analytics. I was so honoured! Check out the article here https://www.philanthropy.com/article/easy-ways-to-start-using-data-to-raise-money?sra=true.

My message to all fundraisers who may be shy like me to learn the data side of fund development, if I can learn the data side of fundraising, everyone can!

I am here to help!

Sam

PS Remember, we cannot manage what we cannot measure.