Our Approach

It’s Not About Tactics, It’s About Relationships

At The FOCUS Group, we believe the heart of successful fundraising lies in nurturing lasting relationships with donors. It’s about caring for people and allowing them to share and invest in your organization. This philosophy is encapsulated in the:

Six Key Principles of Taking Donors SERIOUSLY®

01

People give to people that they know and trust.

02

People give because they’re asked and shown how.

03

People give when they´re involved and have a sense of ownership.

04

Giving is a way of life. Some people just have the gift of giving.

05

A ‘no’ is never forever. Or said differently, “A no has a context."

06

Proper planning maximizes results and minimizes costs.

These principles are simple, yet profound, and shape every aspect of how we do fundraising. They are woven into our proven approach to fundraising, outlined below.

Our Practices

Fundraising is most efficient when we have a basic framework to build on. We call it the Taking Donors Seriously® Fundraising Framework:

Case

We start by crafting a compelling case statement that encapsulates your mission, strategy, and financial goals. This foundational tool not only communicates the essence of your organization to major donors but also underpins all your fundraising communications.

Leadership

The success of your fundraising efforts is intertwined with the strength of your leadership. We work collaboratively to foster unity, develop staff, and cultivate volunteers who become integral to your fundraising endeavors.

Prospects

Identifying and understanding your top prospects is crucial. We use advanced tools like Generosity Screening and detailed donor profiles to pinpoint individuals who align closely with your mission in terms of capacity, inclination, and generosity.

Strategy

Recognizing that each donor is unique, we help you develop tailored strategies for your key supporters, focusing on efficiency and effectiveness in reaching your fundraising objectives.

Plan

A well-defined plan, with clear timelines and activities, is essential for staying on track and achieving your goals. We create a customized plan that aligns with your overall development strategy, ensuring consistent progress and focus

"The goal is to provide the highest quality of service and the highest return on investment, now and over time."

Brad Layland

CEO of The FOCUS Group