Why use counsel?
- Fundraising counsel brings to the client organization significant focus, skill and expertise with the commitment to make the client’s fundraising success the top priority
- Fundraising counsel brings integrity and independence, objectivity and realism to the fundraising program
- Fundraising counsel brings authority and accountability to the fundraising effort that an emotionally attached client staff and leadership cannot
- Fundraising counsel brings a consistent urging to the client project and working together with development and organizational staff and volunteers generally produces greater results than would be achieved otherwise
How do I decide what I need?
Initial consultations are conducted with a prospective client at no charge. M. E. Grace will meet with you to assist you in determining what the next steps in your development program may be and how counsel can assist you in achieving your objectives.
How are fees determined?
A flat, fixed fee is charged based on the level and extent of professional services provided. Fees are not based upon the amount of charitable income raised or expected to be raised.
What about fees based upon commission or contingencies?
Contracts providing for a contingent fee, a commission or a fee based upon a percentage of funds raised are prohibited under the Code of Ethics of the American Association of Fundraising Counsel and the Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Such arrangements are harmful to the relationship between the donor and the organization and detrimental to the financial health of the client.
Does counsel solicit the funds?
It is in the best interest of clients that solicitation of gifts is undertaken by board members, staff and other volunteers. True philanthropy is relational in character and, as such, should be based upon a relationship with the organization and its representatives, not a third party.
Are the results of all planning studies and program analyses positive?
No. Not every organization that seeks to embark upon a given campaign or fundraising program is ready and prepared to do so. M. E. Grace will engage a client and endorse a given direction only when the best interest of the client is served.
How much does counsel cost?
Engaging counsel commits significant organizational resources and therefore should be engaged deliberately, thoughtfully and with a clear understanding of purpose and expected outcomes.
Advancement counsel, carefully chosen, can provide an organization or institution with focus, skill and expertise which generally produces results that are greater than would be achieved otherwise. Moreover, expert counsel can position the organization for continued success long after the term of the contract has concluded.
How do I select counsel?
- Develop a written job description for counsel which includes scope of work and desired outcomes
- When interviewing prospective counsel, focus on counsel’s ability to collaborate with the organization, its leadership and staff.
- Insist upon clear consulting service agreements delineating scope, cost, time frame, expected outcomes and, most important, shared responsibility between counsel and client.
- Define and gain agreement with counsel on measurements for success—qualitative and quantitative