Chapter Leadership Brief 10.10.18 By Jill Scibilia How is your fall so far? If you are like me, it started with the post Labor Day rush and has not let up. I don’t expect the pace will let up until January—maybe. I don’t know about you, but I find the fall season leading into the holidays and year-end to be particularly exciting as a fundraiser. Nearly one-third of all giving happens in December with an estimated 12% happening the last few days of the year. Most year-end “asking” is done in November and December. It is also an important time of year for stewardship and to express gratitude to all of our donors—regardless of their preferred timing for making a gift. Here are a few suggestions as you head into year-end: Lead with Gratitude – Set aside time to express gratitude to your donors, to the members of your team and all who help you do your work all year-long. Technology can help you do this to a wide group quite easily. I also suggest you take the time to do meetings, phone calls, and personal notes to a targeted group. You know who should be on this list. I have always found this to be time well spent. Don’t miss National Philanthropy Day, a special day set aside to express gratitude by recognizing the great contributions of philanthropy—and those people active in the philanthropic community—to the enrichment of our world. National Philanthropy Day is on Monday, November 19th. Remember to check out our professional advancement events and webinars where you can learn and exchange best practices. Here are our next two sessions: November 8th: Pulling Back the Curtain on Donor-Advised Funds December 5th: Webinar: Building Strong Development Teams Visit our events calendar to register and learn more. Finally, I want to express gratitude to you for the work you do for our sector. Your voice and engagement in our fundraising community matters. Thank you for all you do to make the world a better place.