In late 2019 Washington State University published the results of a study to determine the response of donors who learned that gifts made for a specific project had been redirected to another—still worthwhile—cause. The findings were striking. Donors expressed feelings of betrayal, were less likely to give to the charity or volunteer again, and were more likely to speak negatively about the organization to others. To avoid these outcomes, it is imperative that nonprofit boards and staff understand the critical importance of donor intent in encouraging philanthropy, managing healthy and respectful recipient/benefactor relationships, maintaining fiscal integrity, and managing organizational change. This webinar will offer some cautionary tales and suggestions to help you succeed in this work.

Presenter: Joanne Florino, NYCON Board Chair and Adam Meyerson Distinguished Fellow in Philanthropic Excellence at The Philanthropy Roundtable. Co-Author of Protecting Your Legacy: A Wise Giver’s Guide to Honoring and Preserving Donor Intent, 2020