The Seven Faces of Philanthropy: A New Approach to Cultivating Major Donors

A great book for anyone wanting to better understand the reasons people give. I was taught that tax savings was the primary reason people give; how wrong I was. Thanks to this book, I feel far more confident to talk to my clients and prospects about giving. A great read.

This was the text for the Fundraising course I am taking in non-profit management. I found it clear, concise and easy to read and retain. Just reading it gave me more confidence in my success at "the ASK". One of the most helpful parts was the inclusion of research on how certain "philanthropic personalities" want to be thanked once they have given. I actually began immediately to apply it to my work.

I use the concepts in this book for training board members in getting comfortable with gift cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. It helps them to understand that giving is, in the end, about the donor's motivations, not those of the solicitor. After presenting the concepts, I divide the board into small groups and have them discuss various scenarios developed for their organization, asking each group to identify the types of individuals who would respond to this need.

I have found the Seven Faces material to be an excellent study on the different type of donors and their motivation. A great learning tool.

This is a very important read for the not-for-profit person planning to ask for money. It is important to understand the motivations for giving and incorporate that into your "ask".This book is the best resource for simplifying the giving patterns and motivators of people.