With the advent of technology, place is no longer bound to a physical location like a building, area or campus. Place is so much more than a particular point in space. Place is the role one plays in a particular community or context. Place is a position in an order or hierarchy. Most importantly, place can be used as a verb meaning to remember or recognize. Placing is the act of recalling one's engagement with the community, including shared values, experiences and understanding.
We are curious about the emerging Virtual Reality communication platforms and innovations and specifically what opportunities they bring to Philanthropic Placemaking. We stalk the latest VR news. We use our team in NYC to participate in most opportunities to strap on the next brand of headset, leave the real world and experience a creative VR team’s virtual place. They are all worth the trip.
Read MoreOur team in New York City is bundled up and hitting the sidewalks to soak up all the merriment of the gift giving season. No other city on earth has shaped our image of Christmastime gift giving like New York City.
Read MoreI commend Johnson & Johnson and their partners for their efforts to grow public awareness of philanthropy while making their own investments of time, talent and treasure, especially at the holidays. Sure, we all understand that showing a caring side is a wise part of any brand identity campaign, but you gotta admire those who put action behind the words.
Read MoreWe explored NYC on #GivingTuesday with a question: What are major shopping malls that promote a sense of community doing to take advantage of the opportunities that #GivingTuesday presents? The potential role of these properties has been a recent focus as we consider how a culture of generosity can be fostered where people gather for meals, entertainment, and shopping.
Read MoreNaming opportunities are a familiar tool for securing and recognizing major gifts. This practice is now used by all types fundraising organizations and can address both physical spaces, like a building or office, or a concept, like a center or a faculty position.
Read MoreBok Tower Gardens is a historic landmark. The singing carillon tower and surrounding gardens were a gift from founder and philanthropist Edward W. Bok. Designed by architect Milton B. Medary, the tower features the finest design and craftsmanship of the period, including stonework by Lee Lawrie, tiles by J.H. Dulles Allen and metalwork by Samuel Yellin. The 60-bell carillon is one of the finest in the world. The gardens were designed by the renowned landscape architect Frank Law Olmstead, Jr.
Read MoreThere are two key questions that we all want to ask and they both point to donor motivation. The first is why did you give to us? The second is what will motivate you to give to us again? One can be asked, the other should never be asked. If we are to demonstrate understanding of our donors, there are some things we have to figure out without asking.
Read MorePackaging information or the elements of an experience in a familiar “wrap” is often the most efficient and practical means for the donor relations team to brand the messages they prepare. This wrap can be as simple as adding a consistent look or brand to outgoing emails, a two-pocket folder or a regular template for your donor reports.
Read MoreHow often should you communicate with your donors?
As you construct a communication plan, be mindful of the level of intimacy implied by different types of activity or communication channels. Always be respectful of the individual donor’s request for privacy, keeping in mind that there are degrees of anonymity.
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