by Bernadette A. Sahm

Recently I had an awakening about where when and what I was doing with my support and energy. Most people that know me know that I have an energy that is positive and upbeat. That if you want something done and you want it done properly, I am that “go to” person.

Our energy our disposition is how we carry ourselves and what the world sees in us. Do we inspire others and grow our world and our relationships? Or are we literally watering dead plants by giving our energy to those with an empty cup. The ones with a void so vast that it literally can never be filled. The ones who believe they are entitled and owed. The ones who take and take and give little or nothing back.

By nature, I am a giving person as I firmly believe that giving is for the giver and that it truly is in giving that we receive. As a professional development director and professional fundraiser for more than 25 years I have witnessed the most generous people. And sadly, I have also witnessed the biggest takers who feel entitled and as though the world owes them.

Take stock! Where and who are you giving your time and treasure. Are you watering a thriving garden and growing garden or dead plants that offer little or nothing in return.

As far as fundraising goes successful people want to give to successful organizations. They want to know that their gifts are making a difference and that those in receipt are operating as good stewards. Stewardship is so important to the success of an organization. Simply put, do they take care of all that they have been given? Or do they live large on the donations and gifts of others.

Take the time to research the nonprofits that you support. So many are doing great things and good works. Ask for their financials.

We have a private Catholic school in my community that never loses focus on their mission. Their mission is to provide a good solid Catholic school education. They may receive millions of dollars to support a state-of-the art stadium and gym facility, but they also make it known that regardless of the donation, 20% of the gift automatically goes into school tuition to support kids that otherwise couldn’t afford it. This keeps their mission alive well and thriving. It also allows them to stay true to their mission and purpose.

Like most people I receive donation requests often and almost daily from a host of nonprofit organizations. The easiest ones to support are the ones that offer basic needs like food, clothing, housing and education. Seeing kids with cancer and animal cruelty also pulls at my heartstrings and makes for an easy response. I support my Catholic High school as I benefitted from a wonderful education there and hope to support them in giving others that same opportunity and experience.

United Way and Tunnel to Towers use well over 90% of their gifts and donations to support their primary missions, simply put they are excellent stewards of the gifts that they receive They readily share their financial statements.

We vote with our dollar and with so many in need, take the time to learn as much as possible to support the good stewards who are doing great things and at all costs avoid watering the dead plants.

#giving #donations #nonprofit #relationships #healthyrelationships #donors #stewardship #worthycauses

Bernadette on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bernadetteamoyer