Donor Wealth Events
Major gift fundraising lends much of its success to building strong and trusting relationships with donors. Transformational donations are often the result of being in good standing with a family who is going through a "wealth event," which is just a life event that results in a large transfer of wealth. Taking the long view with these donor relationships and patiently waiting for a bigger opportunity based on these events can be a good strategy. Here are some examples of life events that can yield large donations when a solicitation is well-timed. Downsizing / Sale of Property As donors get older their space requirements and travel preferences evolve, and they might transition to a smaller house and give up their seasonal or weekend getaway cottage. Eventually, donors might give up homeownership entirely and join an assisted living facility. Having a close relationship with donors and learning about an upcoming desire to downsize is key to incorporating philanthropy into th