From the Salvation Army to Habitat for Humanity, nonprofits have become household names, and for good reason. They possess the time, resources, and ability to do the work that so often falls through the cracks; feeding the hungry, housing the homeless, and fighting global warming (to name a few). In reality though, the money and resources don’t appear from thin air. The important work done by nonprofit organizations is only possible, because of committed staff, volunteers, and generous donors.
If you’re reading this, chances are you are currently (or hope to eventually) work for a nonprofit, with a nonprofit, or are well versed in the field- so the importance of donors is evident. Simply put, they’re the reason you’re still working too.
While donors care enough about your cause to donate, I would suggest that very few donors really grasp exactly how nonprofits function. Moreover, who exactly are the people running these nonprofits? After all, they are the ones taking donors’ money and (hopefully) doing some good with it.
Analytical One’s objective is to leverage the data that nonprofit organizations collect from donors so that the organizations can optimize their fundraising performance. We seek to provide a spotlight into the inner workings of nonprofits by speaking with executive directors, nonprofit fundraising experts, and industry specialists to bridge the gap between those who are doing the work and those funding the work. They discuss everything from the personal, educational and career choices that led them to nonprofit work, to the surprises they’ve encountered along the way.
Whether you’re interested in working with a nonprofit or just want to learn more about the industry, perhaps this blog will provide some context and insight into nonprofit work and the people behind it.