Retaining fundraisers, reducing pressure & testing AI images

Tell you what, the charity sector doesn't half boast some brilliant writers and blogs.

One of the joys of publishing this feature is getting to read and reflect on such an eclectic range of fascinating ideas, unusual takes, and deep-dives on niche topics. It's nice to be able to provide a platform for these, while drawing your attention to some of the articles that may have passed you by.

This new selection is as varied as ever, taking in sector collaboration, DEI, retaining fundraisers, reducing internal pressure, and testing out AI images.

Huge thanks as always to my colleague Rachel for finding these gems - hope you enjoy!

The Real Reason Your Fundraiser Just Quit
Written by Ann Criswell, published on Substack
“Fundraisers don't leave because we've stopped believing in the mission—we leave because it hurts too much to keep believing in organizations that don't believe in us.”

Ann brings some honest and insightful reflections on how the internal lack of support and respect given to fundraisers by other team members can drive passionate and talented people away from a cause they really care about. This piece offers validation to any fundraiser that’s ever found themselves in this position: mistrusted, micromanaged or undermined by fellow colleagues or trustees, and shines light on the vitality of a holistic fundraising friendly culture for ensuring sustainability and success. It's also helpful for anyone managing or supporting fundraisers.

Do Big Charities OWE Small Charities Help and Support?
Published by Third Sector Network
This poignant article sensitively, but firmly, reminds larger (and, indeed, all) organisations on their ethical responsibility towards greater good and the sector as a whole, not just the success of their own targets. Encouraging collaboration over competition, we’re all reminded of the big picture – and the risks to us all if we’re not willing to engage in cooperative partnership with others. The overall message here is clear, but we like how this article approaches the issue in a balanced and mindful way – reinforcing the message that offering support to other organisations doesn’t mean neglecting your own charity’s needs. 

Breaking the Internal Pressure Spiral 
Written by Flóra Raffai, published by Fair Collective
Particularly geared at leaders and staff in small charities, but incredibly relevant and timely for all given current uncertainties and pressures on the sector. Flóra presents an easy-to-access set of psychological tools that we can tap into to help internally manage what often feels like a never-ending spiral of difficult decisions, heavy responsibilities, perfectionism and fatigue. This article focuses on the practice of continuous improvement, with helpful tips for charity leaders who struggle to let something be “good enough for now”.

An empowering and practical piece for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the many challenges facing their organisation that feel out of their control. 

Charity Right: AI versus Real People Image Test
Written by Jamal Abbas, published by SOFII
Which fundraising campaign would perform better, one with a real image of real people, or an identical copy that used an AI generated image? The answer might actually surprise you! Jamal shares how Charity Right – a UK-based charity that provides school meals to children living in vulnerable communities across the world – explored the use of AI generated images in digital fundraising campaigns in direct comparison to traditional shots, and the emotional impact each set had on donors’ responses. The article explains how they went about it, their findings, and some helpful takeaways on the pros, cons and ethical considerations of using AI-generated images in fundraising. 

White Men, Wake Up! 
Written by Jeff Schreifels, published by Veritas Group (also available in audio)
We should rightly be cautious about white males providing advice on DEI. However, if it takes a 60-year-old white male to get others to actually listen up, reflect and hold themselves to account, then we’re here for it. Jeff calls out men – and indeed, anyone privileged by race, class, sexuality, age or gender – working in not-for-profits on the urgency of leaving fear and ego at the door when it comes to entering into the DEI conversation. He provides some simple yet practical ideas for leaders on actioning diversity and inclusion within their organisations – which could be especially useful for people who are allergic to the idea of DEI.

Seen or written an article that we should include next time? Comment below and let us know ⬇️