Justify the Work and Maximize Efficiency by Nancy Appel and Michael Lowstetter In this article, Nancy Appel, executive director of development for Hazelden , and Michael Lowstetter, chief financial officer for Shepherds Ministries , describe what it takes to determine the real cost of raising funds....

Planned gifts have often been thought of as the private purview of credentialed development, legal, and financial professionals. With terms like “present value methodology,” “four-tier system of taxation,” and “current IRS-mandated discount rate,” it’s no wonder why many of us feel this way and hesitate...

Contingent bequest? Charitable remainder trust? Split interest gifts? Remainder beneficiary? You’ve established a planned giving program and you’re ready to make personal appointments with your top prospects, but you fear you’re not yet fully confident in your knowledge. Don’t panic! Most conversations...