Maximizing donations is major challenge for non-profits as public funds are cut or threatened. The Association of Community Services (ACS) is offering a three-part series that will help organizations increase donations, and identify new financial supporters.  “Growing Donor Support” will explore fundraising basics, transforming donors to long-term supporters, and inspiring donors of different ages, genders and ethnicities.  The three half-day sessions will run February 16, March 1 and March 15. 

February 16 begins the series with Fundraising Essentials.  Presenter Debbie Daskaloff, Development Officer for the Columbia Foundation, will discuss who gives, how they give, why they give, and why they don't. Participants will discover how to identify potential donors and the elements of the 'no-ask ask'. They will also identify factors to consider so that their fundraising plan fits an organization's mission and resources. 

 March 1, After the Check Clears explores the art of turning new donors into ongoing supporters.  Lead by Beth Harbinson, Director of Institutional Advancement at The Barrie School, participants learn to develop meaningful outcome data that motivates donors, and how to evaluate fundraising efforts in order to focus on those with the  greatest return for the organization.

March 15, 2012 Planning for the Changing Face of Philanthropy explores an increasingly important aspect of fundraising. Led by Jocelyn Harmon, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Network for Good, participants will discover what inspires donors of different ages, genders, and ethnicities.  The discussion will include what they look for, where they find it, how they give, and what they expect in return. This working session will help participants develop a fundraising strategy tailored to appeal to, and retain a wide spectrum of donors. Registration for the complete series is $105.00 for ACS members, and $165.00 for non-members.  Individual sessions are $40.00 for members, $60 for non-members.  Sessions will be held from 8:30-11:30 am at the ACS offices, 10480 Little Patuxent Parkway, Ninth Floor.  Register online at http://bit.ly/2012FundAll.  For more information contact Joan.Driessen@acshoco.org, 410-715-9545.