Nothing is more challenging for nonprofits than continuously asking for money. Fundraising is essential to every nonprofit agency, but fundraising is also the most difficult and competitive part of operations. You’ll find some individuals that love it and are very successful fundraisers, while others would rather get a root canal than solicit money from strangers (or worse – people they know).

I often mention to Library customers that grant writing is a holistic process in which the entire nonprofit organization is evaluated from its leadership to its long-term sustainability and everything in between. More than just the grant proposal is considered in the funding decision.

Fundraising is difficult, no matter who you are. I’ve done it both as my job and as a board officer and neither is easy. What helps the most is preparation - know your talking points and your organization’s strengths and highlights. But more importantly, know your prospect. Being able to reach your donor in a meaningful way will ensure you are not wasting both your time and the donor’s.