2025 Professional Development Opportunities

Going Deeper with Discovery Visits – Understanding Your Donor’s Motivation and Intent

This program is designed to teach fundraisers the essential skills and strategies for conducting a successful discovery visit with donors. Participants will learn how to engage in meaningful conversations, build rapport, and uncover a donor's interests, motivations, and giving inclination. The program focuses on active listening, asking the right questions, and creating a donor-centric experience. By the end of the presentation, fundraisers will be equipped with the tools to cultivate stronger relationships with donors, assess their needs, and align fundraising efforts to the donor’s passions and values.

Learning Objectives for Donor Discovery Meetings

1. Understanding the Donor’s Interests and Motivations
• Learn what causes, issues, or projects they are most passionate about.
• Discover any personal stories, experiences, or motivations behind their giving.
• Explore how they perceive your organization and where they see alignment with their personal values.
2. Guiding the Conversation to Build Trust and Strengthen the Relationship
• Establish rapport by showing genuine curiosity, active listening, and valuing them beyond financial contributions.
• Assess whether they are ready for a giving opportunity soon or if additional cultivation is needed.
3. Identifying Opportunities for Deeper Engagement
• Discover potential avenues for involvement, such as events, volunteering, site visits, or leadership roles.
• Understand their preferred methods and frequency of communication (email, phone, in-person meetings, Zoom call)

Facilitators:

• Kathy Hamilton, Development Officer, Abrahamic Reunion
• Nellia Jones, Interim Executive Director, American Red Cross Central & South Texas
• Robert Suggs, CFRE, Director of Major Gifts, Trinity University

Event List