Giving Beyond Your Means

The Chronicle of Philanthropy and Bolder Giving are hosting a series of live online discussions with people that they deem to be some of the most interesting philanthropists in the world.  This week featured a discussion with Jill Warren, a middle-class woman who, along with her husband, decided to contribute between 35 and 60 percent [...]

A New Way to Experience History in Gig Harbor

Recently, I participated in a board meeting for the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation hosted by the brand new Harbor History Museum in Gig Harbor, Washington.  While there, I got a sneak peek inside this amazing new museum which is set to open its doors on September 18th!  Here is a little preview:

Big News Out of Boston

The Boston Foundation and the Urban Institute just released a beta version of their new Massachusetts Nonprofit Database, an online tool to help nonprofits build their capacity. I poked around the database a bit and was really impressed with the breadth and depth of info and resources provided. “Shared goods and services” helps groups leverage [...]

More on What I Think About Donor Solicitations

Two weeks ago, an old friend of mine returned from a trip to Africa where she served as part of a medical team, providing much needed attention and care to many families; children in particular. I showed my seven-year-old son the series of quite arresting photos she had taken and he was moved by the [...]

IslandWood is Hiring!

Bainbridge Island based IslandWood currently has two positions open in their development department for a Grants Coordinator and a Conferences and Event Coordinator.  They’re also searching for an IT professional.  Click here to view the listings and for more information on how to apply.

Summer Reading

I recently discovered a book which I think would be great summer reading for anyone looking for tips to energize a nonprofit board. It’s written for employers looking to motivate their staff, but all the tips seem equally, if not more, relevant for motivating volunteer leaders. It’s called “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates [...]

More Mega Gifts in 2010 – A Promising Sign?

According to an article in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, there have been more eight- and nine-figure gifts given in the first half of 2010 than in 2009. The article states: “At least 20 people have made gifts of $20-million to $35-million in the past six months; in the first part of 2009, only 13 such [...]

The Kitty Kam Experiment: Can a Website Change the Relationship People Have to your Service?

There are some things that you hear that you never forget. Years ago, while on a tour of a local humane society I heard, “If it weren’t for the cats, we’d be out of business.” Such a comment is obviously provocative, so I inquired further.  It turns out that at the time, dogs were very [...]


web design: dogpaw studio