# Stern Bears and the effect on fundraising

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2008/03/24/stern-bears-and-effect-fundraising/
- Published: 2008-03-24T20:51:09+00:00
- Author: Howard Lake

Having survived more than one recession as an anxious director of fundraising and
as a confident consultant, I was tempted to ignore the likely consequences of the
recent financial shenanigans. Usually the professional classes keep their jobs and
salaries, if anything they may even feel more like helping the less fortunate in
times of need, and only those actually laid off really stop giving (yes, I’ve done
the research). This time there are two scenarios in play out there that make me 
hesitate.

My apprehension was aroused by the absence of several ‘definites’ at a recent major
donor reception for fat cats I helped organise. Unsurprisingly, the really rich 
now represent a much higher proportion of charities income, and expectations for
2008, than ever before. Reeling from the downturn in direct mail etc charities have
moved heavily and successfully into major donor fundraising. Now enjoying the opening
nights, receptions, drinks and canapés lifestyle we may not have noticed that our
intended victims (sorry – friends to be) were glued to their screens as their bonuses
liquefied before their eyes. Fundraising from those used to trousering huge wads
of extra cash each year, is not that difficult; but when the pockets are empty, 
and uncertainty over their future contents stalks the land, fundraising may revert
to being a tough call.

Secondly interest rates, that are we hope being held down, may rise and strip away
a significant amount of the giving class’s disposable income. That could really 
begin to bite on our revenue income.

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So, am I bothered? Well, just enough to check your thoughts on the matter…

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