Tag Archives: Organizational Development Episcopal Charities

Punch It Up!: Sound Bites from the GPA Panel Discussion

nonprofit,

The GPA Chicago Area Chapter kicked off the year with an open dialogue about how to deliver a more compelling presentation to funders. A panel of foundation representatives engaged the audience in an honest exchange of ideas and stories. Below are some memorable quotes we picked up from the panel.

cc-ama_reinischOtto Reinisch
Director, Organizational Development
Episcopal Charities and Community Services

  • Be authentic.
  • Need is not a good motivator. Instead, invite the funder along for the journey.
  • Be creative to set yourself apart.
  • Be strategic. This is a reflection of the organization’s leadership.
  • Follow up after you submit a proposal. Follow up post-award. Follow up after a rejection. Keep the dialog going.

gpa_murrayMark C. Murray
Program Director
Field Foundation of Illinois

  • Have an agenda for the meeting.
  • Tell the story of who you serve. In your story, be clear and specific about the resources or staffing you need in order to provide the service.
  • Engage the funder by getting them to ask questions.
  • At the site tour, introduce the funder to your “rock stars” and let them tell your story. Best to have the funder see your team in action in a real scenario.
  • Be friendly, but don’t be creepy.