Horton knew a Thing or Two about being a Fundraiser

Yes, that Horton...Horton the Elephant, the one who hears a WHO.

1) Horton took the time to listen to his "WHO."

As fundraisers, our WHO is the donor we have the opportunity to serve. Donors are our allies, partners, and advocates. They make our heart beat faster and help bring vision to life. By listening and building relationships with our WHO, we are helping create vision, direction and motivation for the long haul.

2) Horton goes to great lengths to connect with his "Who."

When Vlad Vladikoff, a black bottomed eagle, flies the clover a long distance, Horton remains in pursuit of his WHO. Building relationships is the heart of philanthropy. Being donor centered and pursing a relationship that allows you to not understand why donors give but how you can best support them in doing so.

3) Horton heard something no one else could.

Asking questions and listening to donors and potential donors is not only a priority, it is a privilege. Stephen R. Covey points out that “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” Like Horton, we have to take the time to really listen in order to hear things that others may not hear.

4) Horton knew that a [gift] is a [gift] no matter how small.

Ok…I may have taken liberties on this one. But, you understand. Philanthropy is such a personal decision; it is a joy to build a relationship with donors to better understand their philanthropic goals. But every gift, big or small, truly makes a difference and has a place in sustaining the mission of the organization for generational impact.

Horton the Elephant….making good things happen for his WHO.

What do you think? What lessons can non-profit leaders learn from Horton?