My Communities

I was most amazed to learn about myth no 4 because I always assumed you have to tell the donor as much as possible about the organization.

The most surprising was that typo don't need to know rich people

The 7th Myth was insightful, as people in my field would always say internet has changed the fundraising world. I understand it has actually added more opportunity of fundraising

true it was a myth broken

Funderising is all about knowing rich thats what i thought but having understood the fact that its not all about knowing rich people i will utilize my cicles to get a potential donor out of it thanks for training us.

I was fascinated by the Myth 4. I have always thought that in fundraising we should tell as much as possible about the organisation. Now I understand that we should listen to the donor and learn what the donor is interested in and looks for.

I was most surprised to learn that myth 4 and 5 were not true because I have always thought that one should tell more about the organisation and that facts and statistics mattered more than successful stories. Thank you for enlightening me.

I’m so surprised and glad to know about the 7 myths of fundraising. But it developed my skills and helped me learn how to do my fundraising. I thought that fundraising was only about receiving cash, but the course completely changed my thinking that fundraising is about more than getting cash” and in-kind gifts can be of equal value if I can use them. Hopefully, this learning effectively help me to fundraising for my leading organization.

I have always believed that fundraising was all about myth 2 - knowing rich people. This module blow my mind and the exercise opened up a whole new possibility to me that i have never really thought of. Imagine reaching out all the potential donors I listed in the exercise! Imagine that half of these accept to link me up with their own circles of family, friends, coworkers, etc for my campaign! A lot will be accomplished.

I had always thought that fundraising is about statistics and facts, but I have come to learn that what engages donors is the stories that we tell, how are we transforming lives as an organization.

It's #4 for me. I was always under assumption that donors view their donation as an investment. Flipping the tables and letting them talk about their goals and vision makes adapting to particular circumstances much easier.

@MissionaryAkoroMawina-esso said in Module 1 Discussion: The 7 Myths of Fundraising:

hi,
i really appreciate all the insghtfull ideas shared in this module, in fact i learned a lot because i was having so much difficulties about how to raise funds for start up organization ,But now i know how to start. The myth that surprise me is te number four; as a beginner, i thought i should let the donor know more about my organization rather

Hello,
Likewise. I was really surprised to know about this myth as well. I have always thought as a founder, it is important for me to tell the donor as much as I can about my organisation. I had thought this would help them understand my vision better and understand the reason for my cause but I now understand that stories have a more impactful outcome than that.

I had always thought Fundraising is knowing people who are rich, and you should tell all your truth.

I was really amazed too when I saw here that statistics and facts do not really matter in capturing people's attention like stories does, I used to believe statistics and facts matters more, but I fully understand something new now.

I used to think that fundraising is only about collecting cash.

Myth 4 was a great shock to me. I thought one way of capturing the donors attention is by giving them as much detail about my organization as possible.

Now I know, I should do more listening than talking to capture the attention of the donor and align to it..

Its nice to see that people are affected by touching stories more than just numbers

Due to nature of my community, it was kind of hard for me to get convinced on myth 1 until I joined this course.

Number 1 was new for me because we often have charity events to raise money, but we don't refer to volunteer work and product donations as fundraising.

I had always believe the myth 2 which is that fund raising is about knowing rich people, and Myth 3,
But I am happy to learn that this myths weren't true.

4. You should always try to tell a donor as much about your organization or project as possible was the myth that surprised me the most, because I thought that telling everything about the organization was a good strategy, but for the most part it is not, but rather you have to pay more attention to potential donors according to their interests.

#4 surprised me the most - I thought/expected it would be a good thing to give as much info to your donor about your org / project as possible so they can make an informed decision about donations

I plan to organize fundraising events for my own program for unrestricted funds

#6: Finding out that it takes a team in order to achieve success in fundraising was refreshing to learn. Having that team and support is vital to accomplishing an organizations goals. While you, the fundraiser might lead the efforts, it's important to remember and use a resource, your team around you.

no: 3
i was keep thinking what kind of intangible things we are providing for the contributors in return, giving example of Local NGOs

I was most surprised to learn that myth 4 was not true because I always thought that the donors wanted to know everything about the project and the cause. One question I have about myth 4 is do you have any story about how you got the easiest donation? .

It was good to hear that although there might be new ways of fundraising these days due to the use of digital fundraising, the core principles still apply.

I was most surprised to learn that myth 7 was not true because I thought that the interent had made a lot of changes to how fundraising works. Maybe it even has made it better to engage with more people.

I was most surprised to learn that #4 was a myth because I always thought that donors wanted to know everything about an organization; that it would seem more legitimate or something to them.

I was aware of each of the myths, through experience, but appreciated number four because it feels simplest to spout everything possible about our programming and hope that something sticks with a funder/donor. This was a nice reminder that learning about them and their interests first is more effective.

I noticed that true stories could be a good story to compel the donors to join the purpose, as well as have clear information about the project and its impacts

I have always believed that in myth no. 3, one person gives and the other person receives. Now I know that both parties gain something at the end of the transaction

I was most surprised to learn that myth that was not true because i thought fund raising is all about raising money but during this lesson i learnt that you can also raise fund for materials things

I was shocked to learn how impactful stories are instead of data when engaging in fundraising efforts, but it does make a lot of sense since people tend to feel more connected to compelling stories as opposed to data and numbers.

Absolutely, let's delve into a discussion about the seven myths of fundraising. These myths can significantly impact how organizations approach fundraising, and debunking them is crucial for developing effective strategies.

The Seven Myths:

The Golden Donor Myth: This myth suggests that there's one perfect donor out there who will solve all your financial issues. In reality, diversifying funding sources is essential. Have you encountered situations where organizations overly relied on a single donor?

The Perfect Proposal Myth: Believing that a well-crafted proposal is sufficient for securing funding. Have you found this to be true, or do you think there's more to successful fundraising than just a good proposal?

The Universal Message Myth: Assuming one message will resonate with everyone. How do you tailor your messages to different audiences without falling into this myth?

The Generational Myth: This myth implies that each generation requires a completely different approach to fundraising. Do you think it's challenging to appeal to different age groups, or are there common principles that can be applied?

The Expertise Myth: Believing that only fundraising experts can successfully fundraise. How important do you think expertise is in fundraising, and how much can passion and dedication compensate for lack of expertise?

The Campaign Myth: Thinking that fundraising is all about campaigns and projects. How do ongoing relationships with donors fit into your organization's fundraising strategy?

The Size Myth: Assuming that fundraising is only for large organizations. How do smaller organizations navigate fundraising challenges, and what unique strategies do they employ?

One myth stuck with me: I thought people used to go to rich people only to get money, but I now have a different perspective. On the other hand, if a known donor gets sick, visiting him in the hospital could be the donor's expectation. I have learned it.

This one surprised me too. I used to think providing more information made my point more convincing, I was not very aware of the need of making it dialogical to make it more engaging to the donor.

Fund raising isn't about money alone.

Awesome 👍

I was astonished about number 2 that says raising money is all about rich people. Now i understand that everybody can play a role.

It was amazing experience learning from a professional.

It has been a difficult one for me to accept it that anyone can facilitate funding. I only give it to professionals who has the keys to unlocking the best of it

I was surprised at first about the myth of telling the donor tons about the project and organization. However on reading this module further, it makes sense that the idea of lecturing a donor would be counter productive to our goal or even just general human nature. Also understanding that the internet may have provided different availability to fundraising, but it did not change the entirety of how we approach it was interesting to hear about.

I agree. This myth of one person gives and the other receives got me thinking about creating a list of how to set up benefits for the donor. It will be important to create a win/win for the donors and ways to think through how to make the relationship mutually beneficial.

Great question. One thing that comes to mind is, "Although we appreciate your gift of your computers, we are currently using a different operating system and we will not be able to integrate these into our next steps. I can recommend a few other organizations that could use this valuable gift and put them to good use."

Myth Number 3 surprised me. i thought in fundraising one receives money from a donor, therefore a donor gives and the fundraiser receives donation from the donor

I have really learnt a lot about the myths. Before this course, I did believe those myths were actual true.

For me was 4, more information the better was always my thinking, but will always depends

I though stats were important too, I will definitely lean towards stories now.

Myth number 3 was surprising for me.

Learning that is a give and take transaction was eye opening form

I always thought and believed that money is the only things that matter the most when one does fundraising

All my time I have taken fundraising the other way round which was not correct. Donors are right close to our nose

Following the Myth 2 explanation, I realized how many times it's good to network and have a good address book.

Wolf's assessment of the myths is very true and has helped me understand it better

its my honor to have this course and i enlightened with all myths and i got a great knowleged about the fundraising

I was surprised by the myth that you should tell the potential donors as much as you can about your organization. I always tried to be lengthy about all the wonderful work we are doing. Time to re-strategize!

Although I was aware of many of the myths, the one I was surprised about the most was myth #4 because I always thought to fill them in with as much information as possible so they can determine if our organization is a fit for them. However, knowing that it is best to just let the donor talk, it will save me time and energy while allowing me to target what interests them the most in hopes of more support.

Yes, me too and knowing better was worth it.

I have some experience fundraising, though not successfully which is why I'm taking this course again. Not knowing any rich people has been a real challenge for us. I have been reaching out to friends and families for years to keep my organization afloat. I know we need to improve in other areas to keep these donors engaged, but it feels that they are tired of asking so much, and I start to feel more and more uncomfortable asking friends and family for money. I have two small children so I dont' go out to meet many new people anymore. Maybe it is a myth, but so far in my experience, knowing a few rich people would really help.

MYTH NO 3 opened my eyes that fund raising for noble causes is really two ways - the request for support is really an offer for the donor to do something good for himself as for the cause. It instills more confidence in me that i am offering a value, not just asking for a handout.

I got empowered with Knowlegde especially in the light that fundraising is not just about raising cash, the fundraising can be in-kind fundraising.

I really appreciated the focus of myth #4. You should always try to tell a donor as much about your organization or project as possible. It feels natural to focus conversations on organizational programs to garner interest to raise funds, but in reality people need to feel a connection to garner support. This has shown up in many ways with my recent board of directors. Tailoring outreach and focusing on those individual connections makes a huge difference!

I really appreciated the focus of myth #4. You should always try to tell a donor as much about your organization or project as possible. It feels natural to focus conversations on organizational programs to garner interest to raise funds, but in reality people need to feel a connection to garner support. This has shown up in many ways with my recent board of directors. Tailoring outreach and focusing on those individual connections makes a huge difference!

The myth that surprised me the most was number 6: "A great fundraiser is an individual superstar." I used to envision fundraisers as independent individuals achieving great things on their own. However, I now understand that collaboration and relationship-building are crucial in this field. It's a reminder that teamwork can make a difference and lead to better outcomes.

this is so true

was most surprised to learn that myth 5 was not true because it seemed to statistics and facts are more valid and reliable than what someone says. .

Although I was aware of many of these myths, it was good to be reminded of them, especially when fundraising can feel so challenging. There are opportunities to gain support, even if you are a small organisation or you feel like you've exhausted all channels.
It was also valuable to be reminded of the power of stories in bringing your work to life for others to see and understand.

I was suprised to pont no 6 that fundraising is all about being superstar and alone. Its wise to work in collaboration and team work as it bring a good results

Hellos Riziki the art of being a super star inecture number 6 is what took my interest but its essential in producing as team work rather as individual

Hello Riziki become a super star in lecture 6 is what suprise me but its wise to work as a team rather an individual

The truths behind the myths let us know that everyone is able to initiate in fundraising. But I have one question, is there a certain attitude that we must adopt? Like being charming or something like that?

I agreed that stories catch more atention to donors more than statistics. I can understand what I need to do to have a successful fundrasing.

@Humayun360 said in Module 1 Discussion: The 7 Myths of Fundraising:

I had long believed that numbers really matter to the fundraising campaigns but this module enlightened me that stories are far more effective than just numbers.

I have been able to corroborate how the stories of the organisation empathise with potential donors, the stories speak louder than the results, let's go for success stories!

Hello everyone
The myth that surprised me the most was number 3, i.e. in fundraising both parties receive something, the organisation may get a benefit but the donor receives a part of the organisation, a part of something that can transform the world.

I was most surprised to learn that myth 5 was not true because it seemed to me that statistics and facts are more valid and reliable than what someone says

All this time I use to think that You should always try to tell a donor as much about your organization or project as possible. Today I have just learnt that's not the best thing to do

All this time I use to think that You should always try to tell a donor as much about your organization or project as possible. Today I have just learnt that's not the best thing to do

I was particularly surprised by myth number 4. I had always believed that it was crucial to lobby donors by extensively sharing information about our organization and the projects we have successfully implemented. However, I have come to realize that instead of merely telling them, it is more effective to listen to their perspectives and share a compelling story that will capture their interest.
With this in mind, I would like to inquire about the appropriate timing to provide them with detailed information about our organization. Additionally, I am curious to know what techniques we should employ to captivate their attention and gain their support for our cause.

Tom Wolf did a great job in explaining the myths. In my case, myths 4 & 5 were the surprises, because I see them as complementary to each other. In my mind, if you speak about your organization/project, backing it up with well prepared stats you should be well on your way to convincing a donor of why you merit their support. But there's obviously more to it than that.

I wondered about Myth 2 been false, because I though donors are all about rich people

I totally agree with you. No 4 and 5 was really eye opening for me. I used to think that telling potential donors a lot is the way to go and that statistics and facts were more important. Now I know better. I'll definitely be able to tweak my fundraising approach with this knowledge that I have now.

I was surprised by this myth as well. I always thought the donor would be interested in all the details about the organization and project. Also, I thought that this was important for both parties (donor and organization) to connect and get to know each other better.

@MissionaryAkoroMawina-esso said in Module 1 Discussion: The 7 Myths of Fundraising:

hi,
i really appreciate all the insghtfull ideas shared in this module, in fact i learned a lot because i was having so much difficulties about how to raise funds for start up organization ,But now i know how to start. The myth that surprise me is te number four; as a beginner, i thought i should let the donor know more about my organization rather

I agree, I was most surprised to learn that myth 5 was not true because I thought that when making my case to donors, I had to provide statistics and facts in order to make a compelling case. Therefore, I thought that statistics and facts were the most important and the only things that really mattered in to get donors.
One question I have about myth 5 is, How can I get donors to buy in to my cause?

I thought one is supposed to be a superstar for her or him to be a fundraiser

Yes, i agree. 3. In fundraising, one person gives and another receives, is what caught me off guard. I was not thinking about it being a partnership although it certainly is. Intangibles are important as well.

I was most surprised to learn that myth 2 was not true because I dont really agree with it. I think when fundraising on with small business and organizations, of course - its about understading needs, resources and people but when taking fundraising to a higher level - it is also about knowing what rich people think, and how they act and what I can say to make them interested in joining

This also surpirsed me!

The biggest blow I got after reading is that fundraising is not all about receiving the money. If this is the case, then the word "fundraising" itself should be meaningless.

I was most surprised to learn about myth 5. One question I have about myth 5 is that you have facts or works done to demonstrate .

I used to believe that cash would be the greatest result, but now I realise how valuable intangible items can be as well, alongside tangible items that can be given.

I think most of us overlooked the fact that both parties receive something in the end ! not one person gives and the other receives . This really had opened my eyes and made me think in a different way when approaching the donor.

nice to join big familly

Honest stories are more compelling when shared. This is because the aim of such it to transform people's lives, and as such, stories can be told even in 100 years.

The myths definitely brought clarity to my prospective of fundraising. The myths 2,3,4 and 5 gave me a different prospective towards the topic and I will definitely avoid these myths in future.

I have always believed that fundraising is one person gives and another receives, I never knew the donor sometimes gets an unseen/intangible gain.
This course has made me understand the real meaning of fundraising

I was most surprised to learn that myth 6, "A great fundraiser is an individual superstar," was not true because it challenges the traditional notion of fundraising being solely dependent on individual charisma or talent. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and building strong relationships with donors and stakeholders. One question I have about myth 6 is how organizations can effectively foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration among fundraisers to maximize their impact and success in achieving fundraising goals.

The only myth that surprised me was myth number 4, "You should always try to tell a donor as much about your organization or project as possible."
I don't have any questions, as everything was answered in the explanation.

I was most surprised to learn that myth 7 because, With so much technology and the evolution of the Internet, it is hard for me to think that the Internet has not changed how to fundraise money for an organization, in these modern times, everything is electronic and with a minimum of human contact. One question I have about myth 7 is,

However, one question is what does it mean to be a superstar? Being able to empathize and transmit the emotions and needs of others is a great skill....

I really loved the idea that fundraising is more like a partnership. Something else that I learned that it's extremely valuable is that fundraisers don't work alone. There are som nay different parts and ways to involve your team. It's truly a team work!

Yes absolutely, our listening skills can do wonders.