What sets Rainmaking apart from other books about major gift fundraising is that it presents a framework you can implement immediately to help you raise more money. This book is unique because it isn't based on classroom theory. The strategies and tactics outlined here are field tested, proven, success- ful formulas for securing big gifts. In fact, the tips and tactics in this book have helped us raise more than $250 million over the last three decades. In this book, we've set out to provide you with a step-by-step guide for building lifelong relationships with people who have a passion for your cause. The success of all major donor fundraising efforts relies on people. You've no doubt heard the saying, "People give to people." That's only partly true. In reality, people give to people who inspire passion and compassion in them, and with whom they have trust-based relationships. We're going to guide you through the process of creating systems and processes that allow you to build high-trust relationships, uncover true philanthropic passions and create meaningful giving experiences that lead to transformational giving. Here's what others have to say about Rainmaking: "This how-to book on major gifts is an essential resource for start-up nonprofits and new major gift officers, as well as a skill-sharpener for seasoned professionals." - Heather A. McGinness, CNM, CFRE, Nonprofit Consultant & AFP Master Trainer "Really good stuff. I know these guys and knew when I got the book that it would be good, but was happy to find that it is enormously practical and beyond the "simple basics." - Randy Shaw, Regional Development Manager, Mercy Ships "Andrew and Roy combine five decades of practical development experience to produce this handbook no fundraiser should be without." - Robert Stuber, Director of Development/Direct Marketing, Americans for Prosperity "Rainmaking: The Fundraiser's Guide to Landing BIG Gifts was right on the money! I have given the book to every member of my staff." - Jeffrey R. Fulgham, CFRE, Chief Advancement Officer, Patrick Henry Family Services
About the Author: Andrew Olsen, CFRE, is Sr. Vice President at Newport ONE, a leading fundraising consultancy exclusively serving nonprofits. Prior to joining Newport ONE, Andrew held senior-level positions at Russ Reid and Strategic Fundraising. Over the last two decades Andrew has helped raise more than $200 million for organizations like Save the Children, Special Olympics, The Salvation Army, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center, St. Joseph's Indian School, Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, Best Friends Animal Society, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Boys Town, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, University of Tennessee Medical Center, numerous Catholic Charities agencies, Food Banks and Rescue Missions. Andrew is Chair of the Board at the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless, and is a passionate advocate for people living in poverty. Andrew blogs at www.andrewolsen.net. Roy C. Jones, CFRE has 30+ years of major gift procurement and fundraising experience. He is recognized professionally as one of the top relationship managers in the country. In addition to consulting professionally with some of the nation's top charities, Jones serves on the boards of several human service charities. He also founded the Fundraising Institute Training (FIT) Foundation to promote training and philanthropy, specifically with small and mid-sized nonprofits. www.FundraisingInstituteTraining.com / www.RoyJonesReports.com Jones serves today as Vice President of Development at Mercy Ships International, a $160 million organization that provides hope and healing to the world's poor. Mercy Ships is one of the world's only sailing fleet of hospitals, vessels of hope that have performed over 79,000 surgeries for the hurting and poor worldwide. Their ships are state-of-the-art facilities that offer clean water, reliable electricity and care centers. Because over 50% of the population lives within 100 miles of the coast, Mercy Ships is able to sail a modern hospital ship with a crew of 450 volunteers directly to people who lack access to first-rate medical care.