News You Can Use - Vol 11 Issue 3

 

JFSG and FarmLinks Seminar a Success!

On Sunday, August 21, more than 60 fund-raising professionals gathered together for a three-day retreat at the relaxing, vacation-style FarmLinks at Pursell Farms resort. Professionals from across the region joined the J.F. Smith Group for an educational and recreational experience.

With a varied audience of independent K-12 schools, higher education institutions, social service nonprofits and healthcare foundations, the develop-ment training had something to offer for everyone. Among others, training topics from various speakers included alumni relations, athletic fund-raising, feasibility studies, capital campaigns, planned giving, steward-ship and event fund-raising. In addition to the educational aspect of the retreat, participants took part in several free time activities offered at the resort. Some took cooking classes while others played a round of golf. Some went skeet shooting while others went fishing. All in all it was a successful, educational and rejuvenating retreat for all involved. Here are just a few things participants had to say:

"Great conference! Outstanding location! I've been in the development field for 27 years, and this is one of the best conferences I've ever attended." -Wesley Wicker, vice president of advancement at Kennesaw State University

"I was especially impressed with the selection of presenters along with the topics covered. The information provided can only benefit those interested in raising funds for their organization. I am a believer in the philosophy, plan and techniques that were demonstrated by the J.F. Smith Group team." -Todd Thompson, dean of students, Westminster Christian Academy

"Thank you for the opportunity you shared with us this past week. It was the best conference I have been to! Your group had it planned perfectly-so organized, full of information, and also worked in some fun!" -Susan Barron, director of high school relations and event planning, Northeast Alabama Community College

"We had such an awesome time at the seminar, and everything was first class! What a value we received for our investment! I am still overwhelmed with new ideas." -Allene Everett, director of development, Shoals Christian School

 

Between presentation breaks is a great time to network!

Highlights from the Presentations

During the three-day retreat participants were treated with fantastic presentations delivered by development professionals from various institutions. Below are some highlights from those presentations. If you would like further information on any topic below, please contact Gina Snider at 334-332-4537 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Major giving comes from living individuals. In Auburn's campaign, 73% of all giving came from individuals, and nearly 53% of that was from alumni. -Rob Wellbaum, interim vice president of development, Auburn University

In calculating gift or estate taxes, a deduction is allowed for any transfers to a spouse. Therefore, a spouse can transfer an unlimited amount of property to the other spouse either during lifetime or death without incurring a gift or estate tax. -Glenn Estess, attorney, Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt LLC

Team building is essential. Do things together and use rewards and praise. Remember that everyone in your organization is part of the development team, and make sure to thank everyone and include them in these celebrations. -Chuck Vinson, vice president of advancement, Jesuit College Preparatory School

Donors expect an organization to be transparent and accountable. They expect measurable results; saying that we are making a difference is not enough. Marketing and development efforts must be professional. After all, appearance does count. -Jim Ray, executive director, Children's Harbor

Why do special events? It's a good way to bring in new blood and introduce people to your organization. While the value may not be immediate in terms of financial support, special events put a face to a name and create allegiance or affinity for your organization. -Mac Plummer, vice president, St. Francis Hospital Foundation

Volunteers in a campaign help in various ways, from prospect identification and ask amount verification to open-ing doors and hosting events. It is important to formalize the volunteer network in establishing committees, as well as to establish goals and a timeline for implementation. -Keith Mahlum, vice president, SDSU Foundation

Ask with confidence at the right time, for the right amount, benefitting the right project, with the right people in the room - and the answer will be YES. -Kay Hargrave, senior associate athletic director, Auburn University

Opening presentation by Jerry F. Smith

Fund-raising: The Fundamentals and Beyond

Jerry F. Smith, JFSG president and CEO, opened the seminar with an informative presentation on the funda-mentals of fund-raising. Some highlights from his presentation follow.

• People who are involved in your organization tend to become committed to it, and the dollars follow their commitment.

• Your solicitation success rate increases with the number of preliminary meetings you have prior to making the "ask."

• Myth: You can secure big gifts by writing letters. Reality: Big gifts are sought in person. One on one solicita-tions are the most effective.

• The first thing prospects judge, even before you proposal or your cause, is YOU.

• Studies show that two out of five people feel they don't give enough.

• The reason many low-end donors give for a year or two and then lapse are based on a lack of stewardship.

Jerry believes in the continuous education of the development world. That is why he and JFSG associates enjoy taking part in various speaking opportunities. Jerry is scheduled to speak at the following upcoming events:

September 9 - Diocese of Dallas
September 15 - Miami Chamber of Commerce
October 11- Jacksonville, FL AFP Chapter
October 24 - Stevenson Webinar

If you would like to schedule Jerry to speak at your next event, contact Gina Snider at 334-332-4537 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
J.F. Smith Group, Inc.

 

Golf during free time!

If golf's not your cup of tea, there's always cooking class!

"The past few days at FarmLinks were tremendous! The seminar was very well planned and executed, the speakers were enthusiastic and diversified, and words cannot express how outstanding the facility was! Thank you for providing me the opportunity to participate."
-Carol Ownby, director of development, McKinney Christian Academy

 

Voted the highest customer-satisfaction rating by the National Golf Foundation for four consecutive years, this pristine, 3,500-acre golf and recreational resort is located at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga, Alabama. At FarmLinks, you will experience the scenic beauty of nature, mingled with the rich heri-tage and friendly warmth of the deep South. From our 7,444-yard, championship golf course and world-class hunting grounds to our one-of-a-kind research and demonstra-tion academy, FarmLinks at Pursell Farms is a luxury resort offering something unique for the avid sportsman as well as for the golf industry innovators and professionals. At FarmLinks, you will enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious Southern cuisine and an experience in hospitality that will exceed your expectations. Visit www.farmlinks.org.