Subject Guide: Fundraising in a Crisis

Published Date:

Q: Does CASE have resources on fundraising during a crisis?  

A: The CASE Library has developed this resource collection on fundraising during a crisis or time of major change. It compiles resources on fundraising during the COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic as well as fundraising following economic recessions, disasters, institutional scandals, and other major events. It includes articles and books on how institutions can respond to crises and how they can become more resilient for the future.

For additional information on COVID-19, see the CASE Statement on COVID-19.

  • 2020 FreeWill planned giving report: an in-depth look at the biggest trends in legacy giving. FreeWill, 2020. 26 p.
    This is FreeWill's second annual Planned Giving Report. It analyzes data from more than 80,000 wills created with FreeWill's free online will-writing tool during the previous year. The report features data on trends across age, gender, marital status, and geography. This year's report also has a section on the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on planned gifts and nonprofit teams.
  • 2021 Bank of America study of philanthropy: charitable giving by affluent households: full report. Indianapolis: Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, September 2021. 115 p.
    This report identifies trends in the giving and volunteering behaviors of affluent individuals and households and includes data on giving during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • 2021 giving report. Boston: Fidelity Charitable, 2021. 39 p.
    This report looks back at how more than a quarter million donors were a sustaining force in philanthropy in a year defined by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dramatic shifts in granting behavior outlined in this report illustrate the ways that Fidelity Charitable donors provided relief to their neighbors and communities.
  • 2021 women and giving. Boston: Fidelity Charitable, 2021. 19 p.
    Fidelity Charitable conducted an initial survey of 3,055 charitable individuals in March 2020. They then conducted a subsequent survey of nearly 1,000 individuals in January 2021 to detect any shifts in donor attitudes and behaviors related to the COVID-19 pandemic and other events of 2020. What emerges is a picture of women’s giving that is fueled by empathy—in addition to revealing the opportunity areas for women to continue to hone their approach and implement more sophisticated giving strategies. The report compares the responses of different generations (Millennials, Baby Boomers, and Generation X) and how women compare with men.
  • Advancement leaders speak 2020: the pulse of higher education fundraisers during a challenging year. Cedar Rapids, IA: Ruffalo Noel Levitz, 2021. 16 p.
    Ruffalo Noel Levitz surveyed hundreds of higher education fundraising professionals to identify fundraising trends, attitudes, concerns, and goals following the Covid-19 outbreak. This report summarizes the results, containing information on how goals did or didn't change, how fundraisers made the pivot to digital, how messaging and tactics were modified, key challenges and opportunities that remain, and priorities for the next fiscal year. (The report is available as a free download after filling out an online form.)
  • Affluent Americans expand generosity during the pandemic. Indianapolis: Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, 2021. 6 p.
    In times of crisis, Americans have historically responded quickly and generously to assist others and address urgent needs. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic unleashed severe challenges. Preliminary findings from the 2021 Bank of America Study of Philanthropy: Charitable Giving by Affluent Households show that affluent Americans rose to these challenges in many ways. Some affluent households made unrestricted contributions to nonprofits to sustain operations across a wide variety of causes, and others expanded their generosity with additional forms of charity such as giving directly to individuals and businesses affected by the pandemic. Focusing on the communities in which they live, affluent households often concentrated their giving locally—whether to nonprofits, individuals or businesses.
  • Aliabadi, Sonbol. "Students can't wait: supporting vulnerable students' basic needs—amid the pandemic and beyond," Currents 46, no. 6 (November/December 2020).
    Sonbol Aliabadi, executive director of the Sierra College Foundation, discusses the passion and hard work necessary to assist community college students when they need it the most.
  • Barnett, Meredith. "Launch lessons: what UC Davis’ virtual campaign launch revealed about the future of online and in-person activities," Currents 47, no. 4 (July/August 2021): 56.
    October 10, 2020 was etched in the minds of many UC Davis staff, alumni, and donors. That was the date the university had planned to publicly launch a US$2 billion campaign. When the pandemic hit, UC Davis’ team launched the campaign online. Here’s what they learned.
  • Boedecker, Aviva Shiff. "7 reasons to stay the course with gift planning communications," Sharpe Group blog (March 29, 2020).
    Is planned gift fundraising a good idea in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic? This article lays out why planned gift fundraising should go forward and how to adjust the messaging to match the circumstances.
  • Brown, Helen. "Making remote work work," The Helen Brown Group (July 29, 2021).
    Allowing fundraisers and prospect researchers to work from home is a no-brainer. Old-school ways of insisting that everyone has to be in the office all the time are losing their credibility – and for good reasons.
  • Burt, Chris. "Why Giving Tuesday was a smashing success for higher ed," University business (Dec. 7, 2020).
    Solutions provider Anthology says smart, targeted and heartfelt strategies helped generous donations pour in during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
  • CAF world giving index 2021: a global pandemic special report. Charities Aid Foundation, June 2021. 22 p.
    CAF has been producing its World Giving Index for more than a decade. The first CAF World Giving Index was published in the wake of the global financial crisis, and now this long running study has given us the opportunity to look at how a new global crisis – the Covid-19 pandemic – has impacted giving around the world. 
  • Candid. Funding for coronavirus (COVID-19): philanthropy's response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
    This resource page from Candid (formerly the Foundation Center), compiles funding and grant distribution news related to the coronavirus pandemic. 
  • "Coronavirus/COVID-19 resource guide," AFP  (March 19, 2020).
    A compilation of resources about fundraising and COVID-19 from the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19): Events and community fundraising guidance. Fundraising Regulator (April 19, 2021).
    The information in this page is intended to support fundraising in UK nations where formal and legal Government restrictions, such as social distancing, are in place. 
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19): Supporting safe and responsible fundraising. Fundraising Regulator (July 21, 2021).
    The information in this page is intended to support fundraising in UK nations where formal Covid-19 restrictions have ended. As formal and legal restrictions (such as social distancing, limits on gatherings, and mandatory wearing of face coverings) are changed or ended by each UK nation, there remain key considerations and principles which fundraising organisations should consider in their planning.
  • "Covid-19 coverage: fundraising events," Chronicle of philanthropy.
    This collection of articles from The Chronicle provides case studies and advice for planning and executing fundraising events during the coronavirus pandemic.
  • COVID-19, generosity, and gender: how giving changed during the early months of a global pandemic. Indianapolis: IUPUI Women's Philanthropy Institute, September 2020. 26 p.
    This report explores how women and men gave in response to the pandemic and how their overall giving changed during spring 2020.
  • "Covid-era fundraising by big charities: special report," Chronicle of philanthropy (Oct. 28, 2020).
    During the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, giving has skyrocketed at food banks and other charities that serve people in need. But fundraising has also shot up at many groups that don’t have a direct connection to the crises of 2020, according to a new Chronicle survey of large charities. This special report has details on fundraising trends during the first half of 2020, fundraisers' worries about 2021, how big charities are faring, mixed results of virtual events, and changing fundraising strategies.
  • Daniels, Alex. "Nonprofits welcome billions in pandemic giving but wonder if support will last," Chronicle of philanthropy (March 3, 2021).
    According to data from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy and Candid, the philanthropic response to Covid-19 reached $20.2 billion last year, a record response. Early signs indicate that many foundations are likely to fall back to their old ways as the pandemic wanes.
  • Di Mento, Maria. "Clear communication is essential to keep pandemic-weary big donors engaged and giving," Chronicle of philanthropy (Nov. 17, 2021).
    The Covid-19 pandemic has left many people burned out, and this includes wealthy donors who have been approached again and again by charities seeking major gifts. Maintaining open lines of communication and stewarding these donors with a personal touch is essential for maintaining good relationships.
  • Di Mento, Maria. "Houston Ballet's charity ball offers a blueprint for pandemic-era hybrid events," Chronicle of philanthropy (June 11, 2021).
    The March 6 event, which included small parties at private homes in addition to a virtual program, raised $850,000 for the dance company.
  • Di Mento, Maria. "How to connect with prospective major-gift donors now," Chronicle of philanthropy (March 16, 2021).
    The Chronicle's Ask an Expert series answers reader questions with advice from experts in the field. In this edition, The Chronicle shares advice on how to connect with new major donor prospects at a time when in-person visits remain tricky and virtual meetings are still common.
  • Di Mento, Maria. "Winning big gifts—from a distance: during Covid-19, fundraisers are turning to technology to interact with wealthy donors," Chronicle of philanthropy (May 27, 2020). 
    Major-gift fundraising is usually a high-touch endeavor, but because of the pandemic, fundraisers are turning to digital tools to interact with wealthy prospects.
  • An evolving fundraising climate: CCS Philanthropic Climate Survey, Edition IV January 13–January 21, 2021. CCS Fundraising, 2021. 26 p.
    This report is based on a survey of more than 1000 respondents from across the nonprofit sector. It provides insights into how the coronavirus pandemic affected fundraising in 2020, expectations for fundraising in 2021, success levels for virtual events and virtual major gift solicitations, current practices and future plans for remote work, changes to cases for support, and intentions to hire fundraising staff in 2021. (The report is available as a free download after filling out an online form.)
  • Future-proofing nonprofits for the post-pandemic world. Alexandria, VA: Charities Aid Foundation, 2021. 12 p.
    As the one-year anniversary of the pandemic approaches, this report takes account of charities around the world that have been performing their duties under extreme pressure. While many organizations have been forced to close during the past year, those with sustained operations have shown remarkable grit and determination in the face of new challenges caused by the COVID-19 virus. In its sixth COVID-19 survey from December 2–16, 2020, CAF America, in partnership with Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and The Resource Alliance, polled 805 charitable organizations representing 152 countries to learn about the skills these resilient charities have relied on to persevere and those they are focused on strengthening as they continue to provide services through the pandemic and strive to emerge stronger than before.
  • "Giving USA 2021: In a year of unprecedented events and challenges, charitable giving reached a record $471.44 billion in 2020," Lilly Family School of Philanthropy news (June 15, 2021).
    While a strong year-end stock market and giving in response to COVID-19 and racial justice efforts drove growth in contributions, a tumultuous year created an uneven picture. 
  • Haynes, Emily. "After a year of zoom galas, are charities and donors ready to party – and attend other events – in person?" Chronicle of philanthropy (May 26, 2021).
    Nonprofits are beginning to plan in-person events. This article takes a look at some of the challenges.
  • Haynes, Emily; Stiffman, Eden. "Crises shape charities’ GivingTuesday appeals," Chronicle of philanthropy (Nov. 18, 2020).
    2020's GivingTuesday will take place on December 1. Many nonprofits are tailoring their messaging around the Covid-19 pandemic and economic recession.
  • Haynes, Emily. "Giving increased the last 3 months of 2021 over the same period in 2020," Chronicle of philanthropy (April 20, 2022).
    According to data from APF and GivingTuesday's Fundraising Effectiveness Project, overall giving rose 2.7 percent while the number of donors fell 5.7 percent during the last three months of 2021 compared to the last three months of 2020. 
  • Haynes, Emily. "Pandemic has changed giving strategy for many rich people, and some plan to donate more," Chronicle of philanthropy (May 23, 2022).
    According to a new survey from BNY Mellon, 68 percent of wealthy donors plan to increase their giving over the next two years.
  • Haynes, Emily. "A quarter of alumni supported their alma maters this year, survey says," Chronicle of philanthropy (Oct. 28, 2020).
    According to a study from the education technology firm Anthology, one-quarter of college alumni indicated they had made a gift to their institution this year. The survey also found that virtual events are more appealing to alumni than they were before the pandemic. The national survey of more than 17,360 graduates of four-year colleges was conducted in June, August, and September of 2020.
  • Haynes, Emily. "Study points to continued growth in giving in 2021," Chronicle of philanthropy (June 22, 2021).
    A report from the Fundraising Effectiveness Project reveals that there was a 10 percent increase in donors during the first three months of 2021 compared with the same time last year. Approximately 2.5 million donors contributed $1.9 billion to 9561 nonprofits between January 1, 2021 March 31, 2021.
  • Jones, Jennifer A. "3 volunteering guidelines to heed during the coronavirus pandemic," The conversation (April 28, 2020).  
    A scholar of nonprofit management offers suggestions for safely volunteering and supporting nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis.
  • Kihlstedt, Andrea; Eisenstein, Amy. "Q&A: Do capital campaigns make sense in a time of crisis?" Candid blog (May 20, 2021).
    Takes a look at how the Covid-19 pandemic has affected fundraising campaigns and shares advice on how campaigns should be handled during times of crisis.
  • Koo, Andrew; Cipollini, Ben. Giving in unprecedented times: a look back at 2020 U.S. giving data and trends. Giving Tuesday, 2021. 36 p.
    In the United States, total giving to charitable organizations increased in 2020, but there were clear winners and losers. This report reviews the trends.
  • "Lessons from the pivots," Currents 48, no. 3 (May/June 2022): 11.
    Institutions around the globe shifted fundraising efforts in 2020 and 2021 to support essential workers, medical research, and student needs. Here are four principles from 2021 Circle of Excellence Awards winners that can apply to campaigns beyond the pandemic. 
  • Lessons learned about the annual fund during a worldwide crisis [CASE webinar]. Washington, DC: Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
    This presentation will discuss the tools and techniques you should be using to communicate effectively with your donors and how the fundraising landscape has changed since the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Philanthropy and COVID-19.
    This resource page from IUPUI's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy compiles blog posts, free weekly webinars, podcasts, and talking points about COVID-19 and its effects on philanthropy and fundraising.
  • Lively, David. "Major gift fundraising during COVID-19: trends and takeaways," CASE blog (Jan. 12, 2021).
    At its core, fundraising—particularly raising major gifts—is a relationship-driven endeavor. But personal relationships are hard to manage in a global pandemic, challenging fundraisers around the globe to consider how COVID-19 has impacted our work. Specifically, what are the tangible short- and long-term impacts of the coronavirus era on our fundraising and how can we address these specific challenges? More importantly, how can we learn from them?
  • Lukacs, Caitlin. "The future of advancement: working through a pandemic creates space for creativity and innovation that could have lasting effects," Currents 46, no. 4 (July/August 2020): 36-41.
    Leaders in each of the pillars of advancement–fundraising, communications and marketing, alumni relations, and advancement services–from different types of schools discuss the ways the global pandemic has changed their work, the way they connect with their colleagues and constituents, and what it might mean for the future of education.
  • Major donors + digital [CASE webinar]. Washington, DC: Council for Advancement & Support of Education.
    This CASE webinar recording features as speakers Michelle Clark, associate vice chancellor of advancement strategy and administration at Texas Christian University; Chris Snavely, managing partner at Ovrture; and Charlie Melichar, senior consultant & principal of strategic communications at Marts + Lundy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became more and more clear that the old way of engaging donors no longer holds water. Our new, physically distant reality is the demise of static, one-size-fits-all, print-centric thinking. In this webinar, you will learn how TCU proactively addressed the need to step away from tradition and embrace a digital-first approach to engaging major donors and prospects by using the Ovrture platform. 
  • Martin, Jeff. "How 104 advancement shops have weathered a bleak start to FY2021," EAB insights (Feb. 3, 2021).
    EAB analyzed fundraising performance data from 104 advancement teams across the US and Canada. Notable trends include a slowdown in major gift activity and a drop in the number of donors, but for one third of institutions there was a growth in total dollars raised.
  • Martin, Jeff. "Insights from the Great Recession and what they mean for fundraising during COVID-19," EAB insights (March 31, 2020).
    EAB analyzed Great Recession fundraising data from approximately 1100 institutions to identify trends that may inform fundraisers on what's ahead.
  • McLeod, John. Where to from here? The outlook for philanthropy during COVID-19. Melbourne: JBWere, April 2020. 6 p.
    This report attempts to estimate the outlook for philanthropy and volunteering in Australia during the unprecedented combination of a major economic downturn and a significant global health crisis.
  • The missing middle part III: a snapshot of middle donor fundraising late 2020 / early 2021. Sea Change Strategies, 2021. 21 p.
    Middle donor fundraising continues to evolve in sophistication. This paper, the third in a series, highlights how middle donor fundraising fared during the Covid-19 pandemic in late 2020 in early 2021.
  • Parks, Dan. "Some grant-making changes made during pandemic are going away," Chronicle of philanthropy (Nov. 16, 2021).
    A foundation survey from the Center for Effective Philanthropy has found that many foundations changed their grantmaking practices in 2020 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, only 21 percent of foundations have sustained all of those changes in 2021. The full report is available at Foundations Respond to Crisis: Lasting Change?
  • Parks, Dan. "What fundraisers are doing as the pandemic eases," Chronicle of philanthropy (March 15, 2022).
    According to a survey from the Association of Fundraising Professionals, fundraisers are rethinking how they do their jobs with many focusing on donor retention, less reliance on direct mail, and staff retention in the midst of the Great Resignation. 
  • Perlmutter, David D. "Admin 101: our shift to remote fund raising," Chronicle of higher education (March 30, 2020).
    Fundraising is as important as ever for colleges and universities, and there is a need to continue conversations with donors, even if those communications can't take place in person at the moment.
  • Plater, William; Tempel, Gene; Shaker, Genevieve. "The new coronavirus is hitting colleges and universities hard, but donors can help," The conversation (March 11, 2020).
    In a time when many colleges and universities are under financial strain, the coronavirus presents a major threat to financial stability, as well as to low-income student populations who are less able to weather campus closures. The authors, all scholars of philanthropy, argue that donors can help institutions by acting quickly in response to the crisis.
  • Rosenman, Emily; Bok, Rachel. "Only a handful of US foundations quickly pitched in as the COVID-19 pandemic got underway, early data indicates," The conversation (March 17, 2021).
    The authors analyzed giving data from 152 foundations in the U.S. to assess foundation giving trends during the first nine months of the Covid-19 pandemic. 
  • Rothenberg, Liz. "3 examples of alumni solicitations to support vulnerable students: fundraising for vulnerable students during COVID-19 pandemic," EAB insights (March 23, 2020).
    Learn how UCLA, the University of Vermont, and Ohio University are raising funds to help students.
  • Ruble, Adam. "10 things fundraisers can do from home during the COVID-19 pandemic," sgENGAGE (March 17, 2020).
    Here are ten things you can do instead of meeting with donors and asking for money during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Sametz, Roger. "How can colleges engage accepted students and how can fundraisers strike the right tone during COVID-19?" CASE District I blog (April 15, 2020).
    Offers advice for admissions professionals, development professionals, and communications staff for how to respond to the challenges presented by COVID-19.
  • Schohl, Lisa. "How to thank donors during a crisis," Chronicle of philanthropy (July 21, 2020).
    Tips from fundraising experts on how to stay in touch with and thank donors during a crisis so that they'll keep giving even after the crisis ends. Discusses examples for the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Schohl, Lisa. "Major-gift fundraising during crisis: tips from experts," Chronicle of philanthropy (Oct. 14. 2020).
    Major gift fundraisers are finding creative ways to cultivate key supporters and bring in large gifts in spite of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. 
  • Sharma, Yojana. "COVID-19 triggers huge rise in donations for research," University world news (Jan. 13, 2021).
    The report Pandemic Philanthropy by Bridge Consulting reveals that the Covid-19 pandemic sparked a significant increase in large private philanthropic gifts from billionaires and corporate charitable foundations in China. Much of the giving was directed towards research and development of vaccines, antiviral drugs, and other treatments being developed by teams of scientists throughout China but particularly at elite universities and research centers. 
  • "Special report: A new world," Chronicle of philanthropy (March 31, 2020).
    In this collection of articles, The Chronicle explores key changes affecting the nonprofit sector as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Includes articles on volunteers, staffing, revenue and budgetary issues, crises response, and giving trends.
  • Stiffman, Eden. "Planned-gift donors are pledging bigger gifts during the pandemic, new report says," Chronicle of philanthropy (Nov. 19, 2020).
    Donors are showing increased interest in nearly all types of planned giving, and many are increasing the size of those deferred donations, according to a survey from the fundraising consultancy Marts & Lundy and the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners.
  • Theis, Michael. "As pandemic eases, college fundraisers are optimistic about meeting goals," Chronicle of philanthropy (May 20, 2021).
    Research from the firm Washburn & McGoldrick finds that 81 percent of college advancement professionals say they are confident they will meet their fundraising goals for the 2021 fiscal year. The survey received responses from 461 individuals at 103 institutions.
  • Theis, Michael. "Most 'social donors' say they will be ready to resume in-person fundraising events," Chronicle of philanthropy (June 7, 2021).
    A survey from OneCause has found that a majority of donors who previously participated in fundraising events says they will feel comfortable attending in-person events again in the coming months as long as certain conditions are present.
  • Tipping point: aligning with supporters in a changing world. Blackbaud, 2021.
    This report from Blackbaud seeks to answer three main questions: How did donor and organization behavior change over the past two years? What clues might these insights provide us for the future? How do nonprofits need to prepare for the changing fundraising environment? Blackbaud interviewed 1,168 nonprofit professionals and 1,024 donors to a variety of causes. This study presents the findings of those surveys, along with Blackbaud's recommendations for practice.
  • Understanding philanthropy in times of crisis: the role of giving back during COVID-19. Indianapolis: Lilly Family School of Philanthropy/Salesforce, November 2021. 42 p.
    The COVID-19 global pandemic and associated health, economic, and social effects have profoundly impacted multiple aspects of philanthropic giving. Based on newly collected data, this report supplies key insights into who, how, and why individuals and corporations in the United States gave during the early stages of the pandemic through the end of 2020. 
  • Ware, Andy. "The outlook for charitable giving," Lilly Family School of Philanthropy blog (Feb. 29, 2021).
    This post explores the outlook for charitable giving in 2021 and 2022 using the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy's forecasting model, and by providing information about how broad economic conditions may alter the philanthropic landscape.
  • Wawzenek, Bryan. "Adapting in advancement: how advancement teams are meeting the challenges of the pandemic at the beginning of the traditional school year," BriefCASE (Sept. 16, 2020).
    In North America, the beginning of the fall semester has been rife with controversy, COVID-19 outbreaks, and an increased focus on health and safety. How are advancement professionals adapting to the situation, what about their job duties has changed, and how are they balancing the short-term needs of constituents with the long-range goals of their institutions?
  • Whitford, Emma. "Advancement shops go digital," Inside higher ed (Feb. 23, 2021).
    Before the pandemic, higher education fundraisers relied on in-person meetings and events to cultivate relationships with donors and solicit money. The coronavirus pandemic has forced advancement offices to learn how to do these things remotely and online.
  • Also see COVID-19 Resources from CASE Educational Partners.
  • Bowman III, Nelson. "Fundraising during an economic downturn within the historically black college and university environment," International journal of educational advancement 9, no. 4 (April 2010): 266-272.
    During tough economic times, fundraising can become increasingly difficult. At the nation’s Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs), the situation is exacerbated by a legacy of underfunding by public and private entities as well as a commitment to educating mainly low-income, first generation students who need financial aid. This article focuses on fundraising within the HBCU context during dire economic times.
  • Collins, Mary Ellen. "Keep your campaign aim true: fundraising targets are still in sight, despite the recession," Currents 35, no. 4 (April 2009): 2009. 32-35, 37-38.
    The 2008 recession added a tricky new aspect to campaigns, but savvy fundraisers found success with a "business as usual" approach.
  • Diconsiglio, John. "The way we ask now: on the climb out of the Great Recession, major gift officers reveal which strategies are working and which aren't," Currents 36, no. 3 (March 2010): 2010. 42-46, 48.
    Frontline fundraisers discuss the highs and lows of trying to raise major gifts during an economic downturn.
  • Graney, Juris. "Stagnant economy forces Alberta post-secondary schools to get creative with fundraising," Edmonton journal (Aug. 15, 2016).
    This article gives a glimpse of how certain Canadian institutions are raising money from corporations and individuals in spite of a weak economy. 
  • Hall, Holly. "Breaking the rules: fund raising in hard times," Chronicle of philanthropy (July 6, 2011).
    While many fundraisers are taking a back-to-basics approach to dealing with the bad economy, others are turning conventional approaches upside down. This article takes a closer look at the strategies utilized by Barrett Carson, vice president for development at Georgia Institute of Technology.
  • Haynes, Emily; Stiffman, Eden. "Nonprofits plan for year-end fundraising—and uncertainty," Chronicle of philanthropy (Aug. 25, 2020).
    The laundry list of challenges fundraisers face is daunting: a presidential election, a pandemic, a poor economy, and record unemployment. Add in the drama surrounding U.S. postal service delays and it's clear that the 2020 year-end fundraising season—a critical time for many nonprofits—will be unlike any in recent memory.
  • International journal of educational advancement: special issue: fundraising in a time of economic downturn: theory, practice and implications, 9, no. 4 (April 2010): 191-287.
    With economies in shambles, markets down, institutional endowments in free fall, once-strong businesses declaring bankruptcy, and individual giving in decline, how did institutions, alumni and corporations react to the Great Recession? What can past economic downturns tell us about what to expect regarding philanthropic giving towards higher education? 
  • Kucera, Joshua. "Recession driving changes in corporate philanthropy," U.S. news & world report (Oct. 25, 2010).
    This article looks at how corporate philanthropy changed in the wake of the 2008 recession. Among other trends, there was an increase in volunteerism.
  • Lindsay, Drew. "Hard times, hard decisions: 7 things small and midsize charities should do when a recession looms," Chronicle of philanthropy (Jan. 29, 2019).
    The Chronicle interviewed nonprofit experts to ask for tips on how charities can prepare for recessions.
  • Mark, Tyler. "What fundraisers can learn from the Great Recession," CCS Fundraising blog (Sept. 19, 2019).
    This article considers the impact of the 2008 recession on giving and suggests ways that fundraisers can prepare for the next recession.
  • Martin, Jeff. "Insights from the Great Recession and what they mean for fundraising during COVID-19," EAB insights (March 31, 2020).
    EAB analyzed Great Recession fundraising data from approximately 1100 institutions to identify trends that may inform fundraisers on what's ahead.
  • Masterson, Kathryn. Lopez-Rivera, Marisa. "Colleges' billion-dollar campaigns feel the economy's sting," Chronicle of higher education (April 3, 2009). 
    A Chronicle analysis reveals the recession's effects on billion-dollar campaigns and institutional responses, which included postponing expansion plans, readjusting budgets, asking donors to expedite pledge payments, shifting priorities from capital projects to student aid, hiring more fundraisers, and looking for ways to appeal to the most loyal supporters.
  • Masterson, Kathryn. "More colleges consider adding 'gift tax' to new donations," Chronicle of higher education (April 1, 2009).
    A growing number of colleges are considering fees on new donations, in an effort to make up for a decline in the revenue that helps pay for fund-raising operations. Gift fees, or a "gift tax," as they are sometimes called, are not a new idea, but institutional discussions about them are becoming more common because of the worsening economic situation, administrators and fundraising consultants say.
  • Masterson, Kathryn. "With dwindling resources, colleges recalibrate fund-raising staffs," Chronicle of higher education (April 17, 2009).
    After several years of aggressive hiring, some college fundraising operations are now cutting back as both revenue and investment income fall. The regrouping could slow growth plans on many campuses at a time when the need for private support has never been greater.
  • Mayer, Caroline E. "Precision and patience: corporate and foundation relations professionals grapple with the new normal," Currents 36, no. 9 (November/December 2010): 18-23.
    Faced with declining assets and profits, many foundations and corporations have had to trim their philanthropic budgets—at the very time that educational institutions (and thousands of other nonprofit organizations) are seeking more dollars to fill the void left by the recession. This article discusses the resulting changes in the realm of corporate and foundation giving and what strategies educational institutions should use as they try to secure funding.
  • Mayer, Caroline. "Treasure chase: mega gifts are down but are they out?" Currents 36, no. 4 (April 2010): 2010. 18-23.
    Advancement leaders from around the country and the world acknowledge the downturn in mega gifts to education during the Great Recession and discuss the best strategies for dealing with the new economy.
  • McCambridg, Ruth; Heliczer, Cassandra. "'Four futures' of the Great Recession revisited: nonprofits' hopes, fears, and what really happened," Nonprofit quarterly (March 24, 2020).
    In 2008, the Nonprofit Quarterly asked Dr. Paul Light, a faculty member at New York University, to make predictions about what might happen to nonprofits over the course of the Great Recession. This article reviews Light's predictions and compares them to what actually happened. 
  • Muscatelli, Anton. Mackay, Francesca. "Then and now: fundraising during a fiscal crisis: lessons from the 19th century," Currents 37, no. 7 (September 2011): 2011. 36-39.
    Scotland's University of Glasgow embarked upon an ambitious fundraising campaign during the midst of global recession. That was not in 2008, but in the 1870s. More than a century later, the university's experiences offer lessons on fundraising during a fiscal crisis.
  • Paik, Jina. "Managing in the new economic reality," Nonprofit quarterly (Aug. 2, 2012).
    The recession stretched many nonprofits to their limits and forced them to learn new coping strategies. What follows is what staff at the Nonprofit Finance Fund (NFF) have heard about the problems nonprofits have faced and the management strategies used to address them.
  • Parks, Dan. "As the economy contracts, fundraisers see another reason to worry," Chronicle of philanthropy (May 4, 2022).
    Increasingly difficult economic conditions could make it hard for fundraisers to meet goals.
  • Parks, Dan. "Economic data shocks charity officials just as they were hoping for a post-pandemic boom," Chronicle of philanthropy (March 15, 2022).
    Rising inflation, a bear stock market, and low consumer confidence are presenting challenges for charities that were expecting an increase in giving as Covid-19 cases go down.
  • Parks, Dan. "Financial concerns mount for nonprofits as inflation and other economic woes prove stubborn," Chronicle of philanthropy (June 14, 2022).
    Although there are no signs that donors are pulling back on giving, nonprofits are growing concerned about the ongoing impacts of rising inflation, a faltering stock market, poor consumer confidence, and competition for employees.
  • Parks, Dan; Theis, Michael. "Grants from private foundations projected to decline 4.8% this year," Chronicle of philanthropy (April 3 2020).
    Grant making by private foundations is projected to decline 4.8 percent to $80 billion this year, according to new estimates from FoundationMark, a research organization. The economic recession resulting from coronavirus has caused assets held by private foundations to fall by 12.7 percent in the first quarter of this year.
  • Perry, Michael. "Onward and upward: fundraisers focus on midlevel donors to rise above the recession," Currents 36, no. 4 (April 2010): 2010. 25-29.
    The vice president of development of the College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts reports on new efforts at his institution and others to cultivate more gifts from midlevel donors as leadership gifts have become more scarce during the recession. Includes sidebar "Peering into the Crystal Ball" by Bruce McClintock.
  • Pulley, John, "Staying up in a down economy," Currents 35, no. 1 (January 2009): 28-33.
    Uncertainty is the only constant in a changing and challenging development landscape. Includes sidebar "Top 10 Tips: Strategies to Tame a Bear Market" by George Ruotolo.
  • Rooney, Patrick; Bergdoll, Jon. "What happens to charitable giving when the economy falters?" The conversation (March 23, 2020).
    As the new coronavirus pandemic sends the economy into a tailspin, Patrick Rooney, an economist at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and Jon Bergdoll, a philanthropy statistician, explain what usually happens to giving during recessions.
  • Schoenherr, Jeffrey A. "Why stewardship is critical now, and always," Chronicle of higher education (May 8, 2009).
    In periods of economic recession and falling donations, stewardship of donors is more important than ever.
  • Theis, Michael. "Most nonprofits lack recession plan," Chronicle of philanthropy (Feb. 27, 2020).
    According to research, two-thirds of nonprofits don’t have a plan to deal with a recession. But nonprofits appear very eager to have those conversations; 89 percent say they would like their supporting foundations to discuss recession planning.
  • Warwick, Mal. "Fundraising in tough times: how to survive in a challenging economy," Stanford social innovation review (Spring 2009).
    Mal Warwick makes recommendations for what fundraisers can do during a recession to minimize the impact of the recession while maximizing gift income.
  • Warwick, Mal. Fundraising when money is tight: a strategic and practical guide to surviving tough times and thriving in the future. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2009. 214 p.
    When times are tough, don’t cut back on fundraising, advises author and veteran fundraiser Mal Warwick. Instead, reassess current operations and plan for the future.
  • Blakewell, Thomas. "Practitioners' guide: fund raising when the weather is foul: are there limits to fund raising during times of trouble?" International journal of educational advancement 5, no. 2 (August 2005): 357-369.
    This article makes the argument that it is possible to raise money during times of trouble. It identifies different types of fundraising storms, how donors respond to crises, and what the president, board, and donors need from advancement professionals in times of trouble.
  • Gardner, Brian. "Managing adversity in a fundraising campaign," Journal of education advancement & marketing 1, no. 1 (Spring 2016): 35-42.
    Successful higher education fundraising campaigns begin with effective planning, but they are eventually realized by effective response to adversity. Whether circumstances include a public scandal or a decrease in morale due to stalled campaign momentum, every fundraising effort will experience its own unforeseen headwind. The advancement organization's capacity to respond, or its resilience, plays a key role in the eventual success of its campaign. This paper references both high-profile scandals and first-hand cases of campaign plan deviation that negatively impacted fundraising success and cites core management studies and principles to illustrate appropriate organizational effectiveness to better prepare campaign planners and practitioners in the aftermath of such circumstances.
  • Haynes, Emily. "Coast Guard charity's shutdown drive offers lessons in crisis fundraising," Chronicle of philanthropy (Feb. 6, 2019).
    In December 2018, a U.S. federal government shutdown left Coast Guard members without pay. Retired Rear Admiral Cari Thomas and the nonprofit she leads, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, started a successful fundraising campaign to help Coast Guard members make ends meet. This article offers key takeaways from the campaign. 
  • Klein, Kim. Fundraising in times of crisis. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2004. 192 p.
    In today's challenging times, nonprofits find themselves grappling with the threat of economic recession, the ongoing war on terrorism, government cutbacks in social services, and a wave of organizational scandals. Groups everywhere are straining to keep up with the increased demand for their services while struggling to generate funding. This book includes checklists, tips, action steps, and examples to walk you through the process of self-assessment and map out a road to recovery. 
  • Klein, Kim. Reliable fundraising in unreliable times: what good causes need to know to survive and thrive. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2009. 282 p.
    Fundraising consultant and author Kim Klein shares strategies for creating a resilient fundraising program, including practical strategies to survive and thrive in the short- and long-term. The book is filled with hands-on advice for nonprofits on how to create and expand an individual donor base, time management techniques for fundraisers, how to deal with crises and scandals, and why organizations need to embrace generational change. 
  • Koenig, Rebecca. "5 ways to raise money when donors are consumed by nonstop news," Chronicle of philanthropy (Feb. 16, 2017).
    Maintain good relationships with current donors, keep asking for money, prepare for the day when your work will get more attention, and look at the big picture to build relationships with other groups and find new donors.
  • Lindsay, Drew. "Advice from a top gift officer: 5 lessons learned from a crisis," Chronicle of philanthropy (May 17, 2018).
    Development executive Stacey Sickels Locke, who helped Sweet Briar College raise money after it was at risk of permanently closing, shares her top five lessons for fundraising during a crisis.
  • "Managing your annual fund during a crisis," Annual Giving Network (Feb. 23, 2020). 
    This article discusses crisis response strategies for annual giving programs to help them succeed in spite of major challenges like natural disasters, campus emergencies, and institutional scandals.
  • Oguntoyinbo, Lekan. "Ins and outs: fundraising momentum can stall as donors take a wait-and-see approach toward new leaders," Currents 38, no. 2 (February 2012): 28-33.
    When managed effectively, a change in leadership can enhance rather than hurt an institution's fundraising efforts. A successful leadership transition requires, among other things, constant, honest communication with key donors.
  • Zeigler, Elizabeth. "Stewarding donors through crisis," CASE District I blog (Feb. 18, 2020).
    Tailored and targeted donor communications are integral to a crisis response and management strategy. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when developing or implementing crisis response, communications, and management strategies for your top donors.
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