The Fundamentals of Fundraising: Capital Campaign Wisdom That Stands the Test of Time
If you collaborate with nonprofits for decades on challenging capital campaigns, you see patterns and gain experience that is helpful to share. Peter Heller, our founder, has a unique—perhaps even quirky—way of sharing what he has learned. As we looked back on our 20 years in business, we found that much of it still holds up today.
Sure, some of the conditions have changed. But the fundamentals—be confident in your mission, talk about your goals with passion and clarity, take the time to build strong relationships, and don’t hold yourself back—stand the test of time.
We decided to look back at some of Peter’s words of wisdom and share them again, starting with advice that spans both time and culture.
Nov. 12, 2019: Anna Karenina and the 6 Elements of Capital Campaigns
The Anna Karenina Principle states that there are specific elements that must be functioning in order to be happy. Sounds a bit like the 6 Elements we believe are critical for a “happy” and effective capital campaign.
In a letter to donors, Martin Luther King Jr. calls on donors to support six young men fighting deportation to South Africa, proving the civil rights leader’s talent for inspiring others.
April 29, 2021: Spock at a Gala
“Helping nonprofits maximize gala effectiveness always reminds me of Star Trek,” Peter wrote. Think that tie sounds a bit tenuous? Let Peter explain how the words of Captain Kirk and Spock capture two different approaches to galas.
Looking back, what’s striking isn’t how much has changed, but how much hasn’t.
The contexts shift, the tools evolve, and the headlines come and go. But the heart of effective fundraising remains the same: clear vision, courageous leadership, strong relationships, and the willingness to ask for what your mission truly needs.
These posts remind us that enduring fundraising wisdom often comes from unexpected places—and that when advice is grounded in purpose and human connection, it stands the test of time.