David Jones, Executive Director for Annual Giving & Constituent Development at the University of Georgia, remembers when annual giving campaigns were 2 mailings and a single-ask telemarketing effort.

Now, it’s a much more sophisticated operation.

“Annual giving offices are focused on channeled integration using every tool we have to communicate a consistent message, and honoring donor intent with a diversity of support mechanisms,” said Jones. “An annual fund is the lifeblood. It’s the foundation of support that’s so critical. It enables us to do all the extras that make our missions worthwhile.”

In this edition of The Beacon, Jones draws from over 2 decades of fundraising experience to discuss the difference in annual fund efforts today vs. 20 years ago, the benefits of an annual fund, developing segmentation strategies, reaching millennials, tips for designing annual fund websites, and other ways to increase annual fund giving each year.

About our guest

David Jones has built a 22-year career in higher education and served in advancement roles for the majority of that time. He is knowledgeable and experienced in annual and major giving, alumni programs, fund raising systems, non-profit board development and strategic planning. Jones is a frequent presenter and facilitator at professional regional and national conferences.

Follow David on Twitter at:
 

@dsjuga