fundraising strategies

Person holds a tray of dense green seedlings in a plant nursery, with more seedlings and boots in the background.

Cultivating the "big bequest": Paving the way for a bright future

That transformational bequest that seems to come out of nowhere? Chances are, the seeds were planted years earlier. Here’s how to engage donors at every level, make endowment giving feel accessible, and keep legacy giving visible.

Kitsap Community Foundation

Oct 124 min read

Woman writes in a notebook at a cozy desk, holding a glass of water, with a lit candle, plant, phone, and glowing Christmas tree behind.

Year-end punchlist: Start checking it twice

You’re making a list! Before December sneaks up on you, check it twice with seven practical reminders, from reaching new donors and spotlighting different ways to give to starting more personal conversations with the supporters who deserve extra attention.

Kitsap Community Foundation

Oct 125 min read

A person sits at a table reading a book while enjoying a cup of coffee and avocado toast, creating a calm moment of learning.

Worth a read: Charitable planning trends

Staying current on charitable planning trends helps advisors better serve clients and strengthen long-term relationships. Explore three recent articles covering AI's impact on advisory services, the continued growth of donor-advised funds, and why these trends matter for both advisors and the nonprofits their clients support.

Tina O'Brien

Jul 162 min read

A woman presents to colleagues in a meeting room, pointing to a whiteboard with charts while team members listen and take notes.

Beyond attendance: Is your board equipped for today and tomorrow?

A strong board does more than govern—it helps drive an organization's long-term success. From fundraising and advocacy to strategic oversight and community connections, engaged board members play a critical role in advancing your mission. Explore practical ways to strengthen board effectiveness through intentional recruitment, development, and engagement.

Tina O'Brien

Jul 93 min read

Portrait of a shocked woman with an open mouth and hand on her chest against a plain white background.

Say what? The tax laws changed?

As donors adjust to changing tax laws and economic uncertainty, nonprofits may see both hesitation and new opportunities for engagement. Organizations that prioritize clear communication, flexible giving strategies, and mission-driven storytelling can strengthen donor relationships and encourage long-term support.

Tina O'Brien

May 74 min read

When We Give Together, We Grow Together

Mark your calendar for the 2026 Kitsap Great Give and join your community in giving back to the causes you love.

Tina O'Brien

Feb 243 min read

Two people shake hands in a professional setting, shown in close-up, with office chairs and a table softly blurred in the background.

Endowments and trust: What’s the connection?

Endowments are often discussed as tools for financial sustainability, but for many donors they also serve as powerful signals of trust. An endowment shows that an organization is planning for the long term, committed to strong stewardship, and prepared to carry its mission forward. When paired with clear governance and professional management, endowments can increase donor confidence and support meaningful legacy giving.

Tina O'Brien

Feb 52 min read

A small brown egg and a much larger white egg sit side by side on a clean white background, highlighting the stark size difference between them.

Big and small, there is something for every donor

As 2026 begins, tailor strategies for both affluent and entry-level donors. Major donors need personalized engagement and demonstrated impact, especially under new tax rules. At the same time, entry-level donors may increase giving thanks to new above-the-line deductions. Layered, diversified communication helps sustain support across all donor levels. KCF is here to help you build a resilient, inclusive fundraising strategy.