Recently I’ve been asked this question a number of times while I’ve been out speaking so . . . it’s time to answer it here:
“I’m new to development and the nonprofit sector. What resources do you recommend to help me get off to a good start?”
There are literally tons of great resources to read, listen to, and people to follow on Twitter or Facebook. Here’s a short list of some of my favorites but since there are so many resources, readers please be sure to add your favorites in the comments below.
Excellent reads:
How to Become a Nonprofit Rockstar by Rosetta Thurman & Trista Harris is a fast read with lots of great tips and strategies.
50 Asks in 50 Weeks by Amy Eisenstein. A basic “how to” for a new development officer. You may want to join us: Amy will be the webinar guest for my Ignited Online Fundraising Community on January 19!
Yours for the Asking by Reynold Levy, President of Lincoln Center for the Arts. The book is not just about the arts, but also a great overview of all aspects of being a nonprofit CEO. I’ve read this book a few times and had much to say about it. For more information check out my posts: Yours for the Asking; The Nine Stages of Giving; and Purposeful Planning: Four questions to assess annual fundraising success.
Read the Chronicle of Philanthropy on a regular basis.
A few websites chock full of useful information for new fund development staff:
SOFFI – Showcase of Fundraising Innovation and Inspiration
AFPnet.org – Association of Fundraising Professionals
A great list with lots more links: 50 Resources for Students Attending Nonprofit Management Schools.
