LIBRARY RESOURCES & BLOG
This area is filled with how-to articles, engaging conversations, and tons of examples of Catalytic Thinking in Action including actual planning sessions. Much to explore and learn from!
“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” Winston Churchill After my daughter was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease several years ago, we went from doctor to doctor, seeking relief. One of those doctors had been going through his own transformation (he has since entirely given up … Read more
Just as I finished yesterday’s post on the power of inspiring boards (vs. always complaining about them), I saw this newly released video from this year’s TED conference. And man if Barry Schwartz doesn’t say the exact same thing, giving statistical proof that inspiration will accomplish what neither rules NOR incentives can. When we humans … Read more
The other day, I got this tip from a group that specializes in boards and governance. (I’ve redacted the name of the high-profile organization from whence this VERY long paragraph came. I suggest skimming it – don’t read every word or you won’t get to the good stuff!) “Addressing noncompliant board members can be a … Read more
Last week I received a note that became the post Joan is Going Nowhere. In that post, Joan described her frustration with her ED’s mandate that fundraising focus on the donor vs. the needs of the population her organization serves. I am grateful for the great wisdom you all shared with Joan – being gone … Read more
The following note came from one of the readers here at Creating the Future. The subject line was “Feel like I’m going nowhere with fundraising.” I thought I’d share it here, as I know Joan is not alone! Dear Hildy: I’m hoping to get advice. I read your blog all the time, and I’m with … Read more
In a post last week, I noted that Social Media Fundraising is a) not sustainable b) scarcity-based vs. strength-based c) counterproductive if we want to create a better future for our communities In that post, I addressed the last item – the counterproductive nature of Social Media Fundraising vs. creating real impact. Today let’s tackle … Read more
These days we are inundated with the lure of fundraising on Twitter and Facebook and sites like KIVA.org. A birthday ask on Facebook that raises $5,000. A Twitter campaign that asks for just $10 apiece, suddenly raising $10,000 to help an individual family or a “boy without arms.” Sites like KIVA.org that ask you to … Read more
Man oh man, if there were ever a week we needed to get grounded with a Rock Out before heading into the world, it is this week! We started this fledgling year with brutal war in Gaza and brutal economic hardship here at home. And everywhere we look, it is getting harder and harder to … Read more
I just realized that this month is the 3rd anniversary of the publication of my book, FriendRaising. I feel like a mom, wondering how so many years could have passed since my baby was born! To celebrate, I want to share a story of friendship and family and laughter. It has nothing and everything to … Read more
If Community Engagement is like gardening in the front yard, I can think of no one more engaging than Clyde. Clyde is the work of my neighbor, Larry. I don’t know how long Clyde has been around, but we were introduced when we moved into the house directly across from Larry’s in 1996. For 12 … Read more