Spring Webinar--Philanthropy for the Modern Family

“I wish I could give but . . . . “ Fundraisers hear this phrase often, but may not be sure how to respond. All they hear is what sounds like a definite “no.” In this modern era, increasingly complex family structures are having an impact on giving decisions. Like many Americans, a great number of financially secure donors are taking on the responsibility of caring for adult children, aging parents and struggling siblings. Many of these donors want to do more to support your organization, but feel conflicted with meeting family needs first. What if your donors understood that they don’t have to choose? Gift planning options can help donors match their financial needs with their charitable goals. The key is knowing how to introduce the right vehicle(s) at the right time. This interactive and practical session will help you learn how to hear the cues and clues that signal a gift planning opportunity and propose options that will help keep the conversation going. By putting donor needs first, you will not only close larger gifts but also build philanthropic partnerships for life. Lead your organization by mastering the skills needed to grow philanthropy for the modern family.

•  Recognize the cues and clues that may mentally block a donor from making the gift of a lifetime.
• Match a prospective donor's personal family needs with the right noncash gift and/or gift planning vehicle.
• Explain the value of various gift planning options on the spot during face-to-face donor conversations.

Meet the Presenter--Tia Graham

Tia J. Graham leads the gift planning team for the PBS Foundation. She has worked in the field of philanthropy for nearly two decades. Over this time, she’s had the pleasure of helping a diverse group of donors fulfill their passions for public media, higher-education, community philanthropy and medical research. Prior to entering the nonprofit arena, Tia worked as a financial reporting accountant and estate planning attorney. In these roles, she gained insights into the personal giving decisions made by people from varied socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Tia lives in Jersey City, New Jersey with her family. She holds a law degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law and a BS in Accounting and Finance from Northeastern State University. Tia is a member of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners, American Bar Association, National Bar Association and Oklahoma Bar Association. She is a frequent speaker for professional development organizations and nonprofits.