Culture of Philanthropy – Addressing Harmful Practices in Fundraising
For six years, I worked behind the scenes in fundraising, focusing on events, data metrics, and donor communications. Before entering the fundraising sector, I knew little about its history. However, participating in the AFP (Association for Fundraising Professionals) Central VA Chapter’s Inclusive Fundraising Fellowship exposed me to a different side of fundraising that I had not considered before.
The foundation of fundraising is built on relationships, trust, and community engagement. However, traditional practices often perpetuate harm and inequity. To understand why, it's important to look at the history of philanthropy. Historically, philanthropy has often been driven by the wealthy elite, sometimes reinforcing power imbalances and overlooking the needs of marginalized communities.
I see many of these harmful practices still in place today. How can we shift fundraising and its culture to be more equitable and inclusive of the communities the non-profit sector claims to serve?
Here are a few ways to start:
Re-evaluate Donor-Centric Models
Traditional fundraising often prioritizes the preferences and interests of donors over the needs of the community. This can lead to a power imbalance where donors dictate the direction and focus of non-profit work. Shifting towards a community-centric model involves actively listening to and addressing the needs of those served by the organization. This may mean involving community members in decision-making processes and ensuring that their voices are heard and valued.
Ethical Storytelling
Fundraising often relies on storytelling to connect donors to the cause. However, it’s important to tell stories ethically and respectfully, avoiding exploitative or sensational narratives. Ensure that the stories of those served by the organization are told with dignity and consent, highlighting their strengths and resilience rather than portraying them as helpless victims.
Equitable Staffing Practices
A truly inclusive fundraising culture starts within the organization. This includes equitable hiring practices, fair wages, and opportunities for professional development. A diverse and inclusive staff can bring a variety of perspectives and ideas, enriching the organization’s work and its connection to the community.
By adopting these practices, we can work towards a fundraising culture that aligns with the values of equity and inclusion, creating a more resilient non-profit sector that truly empowers and serves all community members.