Why and Research

At the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence's Fall Forum for Local Education Foundations, several presentations focused upon fundraising. 

Dan Billingsley, vice president of external affairs at the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, spoke. 

We asked Jennifer Seal, a friend and Fall Forum attendee, to share with all of us what she learned in that session.  

Dan Billingsley at the Fall Forum 2015

Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence's Fall Forum provided attendees with robust information on fundraising applicable for brand new fundraisers and veterans alike.  

Dan Billingsley of the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits opened the conference by challenging the attendees to think about the why of our organization - why are we here?  Why does our organization exist?  He urged the group to find ways to tell of our impact on the education crisis now.  

Mr. Billingsley's next session focused on the major phases of a fundraising cycle and broke down each with tasks to be accomplished for maximum effect. The ohases are identification, research, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. A major lament he mentioned was that we don't do a great job researching potential donors, be they individuals, foundations, or corporations to ensure that our programs align with what the entity prefers to support. With this clear plan, we should all be able to make a difference for our local schools at this critical time.  

Jennifer Seal

Director of Development and Community Relations

ASTEC Charter Schools

Oklahoma City

Jennifer Seal with OFE Trustee Georgeann Roye at the
Fall Forum, University of Oklahoma, October 20, 2015