With the energy brought by a new year, organizations are always eager to launch new initiatives to make this year bigger and better than the last.

Natalie is a high school senior in our neighborhood. She is an outstanding young lady; one any parent would want their own children to emulate. I have known Natalie since she was about 8 and it has been fun to watch her grow up.

“Tomorrow, is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one” –Brad Paisley

Universities, colleges, small and large nonprofits all need to utilize volunteers to accomplish programmatic, governance and fundraising goals.

The season of gift giving is upon us. Presents are being wrapped and finding their places under Christmas trees all over the world.

An article in The Chronicle of Philanthropy caught my eye this past week.

I secured my first annual fund challenge gift in 1994. The very generous donor and his wife, agreed to match every new and increased gift to our campaign up to $25,000. It worked brilliantly, and we far exceeded the challenge.

When I first started my fundraising career, I was given a laminated card the size of a business card and on it was listed all of the questions a prospective donor should be asked in a cultivation meeting.

I love everything about it. The changing leaves, cooler temperatures, hay rides. I love hot apple cider, harvest displays and pumpkin EVERYTHING! And then, of course, I love the holy grail of Fall: Halloween!