Each time I begin to work with a new client, I always ask myself, “What role does the CEO want philanthropy to play in this organization.” To me, this is the first question that should be asked and it should be asked as frequently as needed. Just as our donors want complete transparency about what we do, how we do it and the outcomes of our actions, we too should want transparency of thought as it translates directly into action. The dialogue we begin with our senior leadership team, even tough dialogue, will open the door to new possibilities and create greater understanding of the mentality at the top.
Too often, when we do not understand what the CEO wants from the foundation or fund development program, we find ourselves running in circles and creating our own projects and our own reasons for philanthropy. This, in the end, is not incredibly beneficial. What if we could stop running in circles and begin climbing the mountain?
So my question to you is, have you asked your CEO what he or she wishes the role of philanthropy to be within your organization? Have you begun to ask the cage rattling questions about what his or her answer ultimately means for the development arm of your organization? If the CEO desires a serious, high level, capital fundraising foundation/development office, what does that mean for you? Are they ready to make the commitment to either enhance the philanthropic culture or change it completely? How does the Board feel?
Until you ask, you won’t know where you are going and how you need to get there.
The Captive Consultant 