Well, it’s a new year! And as we welcome the new year, it’s a time for reflection, anticipation, and, most importantly, recommitment to your core values as fundraiser. Here at Veritus Group, the stories I’ve heard over the past year from our team are both inspiring and a testament to the power of patience and persistence.

In fundraising, particularly as a frontline fundraiser, it’s easy to be swept into the riptides of immediate results and fast-paced strategies. And I get it. Much of that comes from your own managers and leaders. However, your long-term success in fundraising depends on a deeper, more steadfast approach.

You know it’s about cultivating relationships, understanding the passions and interests of your donors, and aligning them with the meaningful work you do every day.

This requires a relentless commitment to patience and persistence.

Throughout 2023, our team at Veritus Group had the privilege of coaching some of the most passionate frontline fundraisers. Their stories include those moments of doubt and the temptation to give up, especially when it came to cultivating a donor for a significant gift or qualifying a donor’s commitment. But it’s in those moments of uncertainty where the seeds of success were sown.

I recall one story about a fundraiser we coached who, for months, worked tirelessly to build a relationship with a donor in their portfolio. Despite unanswered calls, postponed meetings, and the pervasive silence that often leads to discouragement, this fundraiser persisted.

With support of our Client Experience Leader, they stayed focused on serving the donor’s interests, patiently listening, and providing thoughtful engagement opportunities. And then, a breakthrough came – a transformative gift that not only funded critical initiatives but also forged a deep and lasting partnership with the organization.

This story is not unique. It echoes across our community of fundraisers, reinforcing the truth that the fruits of your labor often come to those who wait, who listen, and who remain unwavering in their commitment to their donors and mission.

In 2024, I encourage you to embrace patience and persistence as your guiding light. Remember that each day you choose to stay the course, you are building upon a foundation that will support not just the immediate goals of your organization, but the long-term vision that will make an impact for years to come.

Celebrate the small victories, the subtle shifts in donor engagement, and the quiet acknowledgments of your efforts. These are the signposts that your dedication is resonating, that you are making a difference.

At Veritus Group, we’ve witnessed the transformational change that happens when a fundraiser connects deeply with their work and the people they serve. It’s a change that isn’t just measured in dollars but in the strengthened resolve of our fundraisers, the enriched experiences of our donors, and the enhanced impact of our missions.

So, as we step into 2024, let’s commit to being the champions of patience and persistence. Let’s share our stories of perseverance and celebrate each other’s successes. The road ahead will have its challenges, but together, with a steady hand and a hopeful heart, we will continue to change the world – one patient, persistent step at a time.

To all the frontline fundraisers out there, your work is essential, your passion is infectious, and your impact is immeasurable. Stay the course, and the rewards will be more than worth the wait. Here’s to a hopeful and successful 2024!

Jeff