http://forums.blackbaud.com/blogs/jaylove/archive/tags/Internet/Giving+Institute/Giving+USA/default.aspxTags: Internet, Giving Institute, Giving USAenCommunityServer 2007 SP2 (Debug Build: 20611.960)http://forums.blackbaud.com/blogs/jaylove/archive/2008/07/21/the-inside-view-of-giving-usa-giving-institute.aspxMon, 21 Jul 2008 15:25:00 GMTf90a95a0-00e2-4810-8af8-0bbdde08f853:32173Jay Love0http://forums.blackbaud.com/blogs/jaylove/rsscomments.aspx?PostID=32173http://forums.blackbaud.com/blogs/jaylove/archive/2008/07/21/the-inside-view-of-giving-usa-giving-institute.aspx#comments <p>I am typing this as I fly back from the Giving Institute’s Summer Symposium and board meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. I believe this was the 6th Summer Symposium I have been able to attend. Hands down it was the best with regards to content and sharing of ideas. </p><p>The Symposium created and conducted by the <a href="http://www.givinginstitute.org" target="_blank">Giving Institute</a> is where the latest results of the Giving USA data are unveiled, explained and discussed in detail by many of the top fundraising consulting firms in the world. You see, the Giving Institute is the former AAFRC, Association of Fundraising Counsel, who commissions all of the research for the <a href="http://www.givingusa.org/gusa/gusa_order.cfm" target="_blank">Giving USA report</a>. If you are employed in or connected to the non-profit sector and have not read this dynamic report, I encourage you to do so. The research data is comprehensive and can offer many insights which can aid in formulating any charity’s future strategy. </p><p>In addition to the Giving USA results, this summer gathering brought together so many of the sector’s thought leaders to present and discuss on various topics that truly affect day to day fundraising as well as major fundraising campaigns. Seeing and being part of such discussions, and in many cases debates, allows everyone involved to grow and be better prepared to serve the sector. </p><p>I was delighted this year’s agenda included several topics related to the Internet and its huge effect on communications and giving. Being a presenter myself (maybe that is why I thought this year’s edition of sessions was the best...), I was not sure how far-reaching the questions and ensuing discussions might be. Rest assured, I was not disappointed by the scope and depth of those questions and discussions. This group truly “gets it” in knowing the impact such fast-paced changes in mass communications can bring to the relationship building and fundraising processes. </p><p>If you are working with or considering a working relationship with any of the members of the <a href="http://www.givinginstitute.org" target="_blank">Giving Institute</a>, I encourage you to explore the items I mention above in greater depth. The members are a pleasure to be associated with and have become some of my best friends and trusted advisors in this wonderful sector. I am already looking forward to next year’s gathering and the further insights and opinions to be gained... </p> <img src="http://forums.blackbaud.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=32173" width="1" height="1">Giving USAGiving InstituteInternet