All I Ask of You

By Jerry F. Smith

It’s a new year, new beginnings and, yes, new challenges.

But, before we leave 2004, let’s review for just a minute. I’m sure when the final numbers are in, it will be another record year for private support -- maybe as much as $250,000,000,000. There are some 950,000 charitable organizations in this country and they all have their hands out.  In most cases, they are all worthy of our support. Your job is to make your school or organization a priority for your prospect.

My question for you is, how much of that $250 billion that was given away in 2004 did you get? Probably not as much as you needed.

If this is the case, all I ask of you in 2005 is to do three things:

1. Tell anyone and everyone about your mission. The number one reason people give is because they believe in your mission.
2. Determine your opportunities (projects).  People want to invest in your opportunities, not your needs.
3. Create a list of prospects. Good prospects are people who are involved in your school or organization; involvement leads to commitment and dollars follow commitment.

There is no doubt that to be successful in this business of raising private dollars leadership and sacrifice are required. I just finished a book entitled, “The Wisdom of Alexander the Great.”  Alexander was one of history’s wealthiest people, yet he always fought visibly, from the front.  He knew the names of 10,000 soldiers, refused medical treatment until all others were treated, slept cold, ate sparingly.  Don’t misunderstand; you do not have to be warrior to be successful.  All I ask of you is to lead by example and realize sacrifice is required in this business.

Be enthusiastic and happy and put a smile on your face.  You have the greatest job in the world!

All I ask of you is to TRY.

T – T stands for TIME. The TIME is now!

R – R stands for RELATIONSHIPS. Build RELATIONSHIPS!

Y – Y stands for YOU. YOU must take the first step!

All I ask of you is make 2005 a great year. You can do it! God bless!