Refilled by Generosity: What the Charitable Gift Planners Conference Reminded Me About the Heart of This Work
This week, I had the privilege of spending a few days surrounded by some of the brightest, kindest, and most curious minds in philanthropy at the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners Conference.
There’s something about being in a room full of people who care deeply about generosity—it refills your cup in a way that’s hard to describe.
But it also reminded me of a few things I think we all need to hear right now.
1. The Disconnect Is Real—But It’s Fixable
Across organizations large and small, I heard a familiar theme: leaders and fundraisers are not
always on the same page. Sometimes the case for support, strategy, or tactics feel out of sync
with leadership’s direction. The result? Frustration on all sides.
Here’s the truth: this disconnect doesn’t mean anyone is failing—it just means communication
and trust need intentional attention. Alignment takes work, but when it happens, the results are
powerful.
2. We’re All Still Learning
It was humbling (and oddly comforting) to hear seasoned professionals—people with 30 or 40 years in the field—say, “I learned something new this week.”
This work doesn’t come with a finish line. The philanthropic landscape keeps evolving—laws shift, technology changes, donors surprise us—and that’s part of what keeps it exciting.
3. Policies Are Your Best Friend
If your organization doesn’t have a gift acceptance policy or naming rights policy, it’s time to make that your new BFF.
These documents don’t just protect you now; they safeguard your mission for years to come.
But remember, they’re not “set it and forget it” tools. As the world changes, your policies should too.
4. It’s Been a Hard Year
Let’s be honest—it’s been tough out there. From small nonprofits to large institutions, nearly
everyone I talked to admitted they’re feeling stretched thin. The economy, political tension, and
donor fatigue are taking a toll. If you’re feeling tired, discouraged, or uncertain, you’re not alone.
Take a breath. Rest. You’re doing meaningful work in challenging times.
5. Curiosity Is Your Secret Weapon
When the conversations get hard—whether it’s with a donor who wants more control or a leader who’s reluctant to let go—curiosity is your greatest ally. Ask questions. Listen deeply. What’s behind the need for control or fear of letting go? Maybe a donor’s been burned before. Maybe a leader is carrying the weight of uncertainty.
When we stay curious, we open the door to empathy, understanding, and solutions that strengthen relationships instead of straining them.
Leaving the conference, I felt something I haven’t felt in a while—hopeful.
Hopeful because even in this season of uncertainty, our community of fundraisers and planners is asking the right questions, challenging assumptions, and staying rooted in generosity.
Here’s to staying curious, staying connected, and continuing to learn—together.
