Discovery Work 
Led by Lauren Wise (ILD ' 20), Philanthropic Advisor, CU Anschutz (left) and Shawna English (ILD '21), Philanthropy Director, Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation (right)
Lauren and Shawna led a practical workshop-style session to address day-to-day communications with donor prospects that can sometimes feel uncomfortable, awkward, and intimidating for any fundraiser. Quickly dispelling these common fears, they shared a step-by-step plan for success. Perhaps most reassuring was the stories of folks who they'd reached out to many times via voicemail, text, and email and eventually connected with...in their experience, folks truly are busy and appreciate your persistence!
Blending the art and science of this work, they shared tips to prepare for calls, key things to listen for, as well as ways to engage/re-focus the conversation if needed. The cohort had plenty of time to practice with one another and start to fine-tune their own approaches. Participants really appreciated their sample lists of questions and templates.
Finally, they discussed disqualifying prospects. While it can be hard to do, there are different frameworks that can help you make this decision. And, just like there are lots of versions of "Yes," there are also different versions of "No." It's not always no--never.
Thanks to Anchor Center for Blind Children for hosting us! The cohort was able to tour their facility with Savannah Wippel and pose together in front of a very special mural. These beautiful wings were painted by Kelsey Montague, who has also been commissioned by Taylor Swift to add a pair of wings in Nashville. So, we're all a little more closely connected now, right? 
