Fundraising Leadership

Students gain an overview of the principles, ethics and practices of professional fundraising and a systemic examination of the thinking and preparation that is required before an organization can engage in successful fundraising. Students examine the evolution of fundraising in North America, the role the voluntary sector plays in today's society and the changing nature of the position of the fundraising professional. Students also analyze the needs of an organization and apply fundraising approaches that best suit the organization's needs.

Accountability and transparency are key in today's society. Students develop realistic marketing, communication, and financial plans that reflect the budgetary obligations of an organization, learn how to inspire general public interest, and establish trust in the brand of organization they represent. Students learn the importance and role of marketing, public relations, and financial mangement in the world of fundraising.

Issues and processes involved in planning and organizing special events are presented. Students examine the organization, advantages and disadvantages of special events as a fundraising technique including tasks and responsibilities, working with committees, creative development of event concepts, scheduling and budgeting and strategies for maximizing profits from the event. Corporate partnerships and grant seeking, and entrepreneurial and third-party fundraising activities are also examined. Students develop fundraising plans according to the needs and capabilities of the organization they represent, such as finances and human resources. Relationships with the corporate sector and the means to identify their interest in fundraising are explored.

The funding relationship between the charitable sector, corporations and individual donors is integral to fundraising. Students explore the needs and motivations of donors (corporations or individuals) and what sustains long-term partnerships with the non-profit sector. They also learn to identify, analyze and rate potential prospects and prepare a solicitation approach accordingly.

Elements of a successful fundraising campaign are examined. Students learn how to develop a compelling case for support, attract the best leadership potential, develop donor prospects and prepare a plan of action. Management and financial strategies to effectively control the fundraising process of campaigns are explored. Practical implementation of fundraising strategies required to manage information generated during a campaign, such as processing gifts and dealing with information flow and technology are addressed.

In this course, students apply the concepts learned in the Fundraising Leadership Program through a series of reports. In collaboration with a non-profit organization, students analyze existing fundraising practices and make recommendations for enhancements. Acting as a member of a Board of Directors, students provide ongoing feedback to colleagues and help to critique the final report. Registration for the capstone project is available at the start of each academic term.

Please Note: Registration in this capstone is only open to students who have successfully completed the requisite courses listed below. If you have successfully completed your requisites and are ready to start your capstone, please contact the Online Education office at onlineplacement@lambtoncollege.ca to begin the registration process.

Prerequisite(s):

• FDL-1013 Introduction to Fundraising
• FDL-1023 Fundraising As Management Process
• FDL-1033 Methods of Fundraising
• FDL-1043 Donor Relationships in Fundraising
• FDL-1053 Strategic Management of Campaigns