The A$k
This updated and expanded edition of the best–selling fundraising resource The Ask gives anyone who needs to learn how to ask for their nonprofit organization, creative project, business venture, or simply for themselves all the right steps and language to make the best Ask.
Fundraising expert Laura Fredricks guides her readers through views about money; formulating the right case statement and business plan; selecting the right people, at the right time, in the right location, to make the Ask; handling the myriad of responses to the Ask; and the crucial follow–up to each and every Ask.
The Ask is filled with numerous sample dialogues that any reader can use and adapt immediately. Laura Fredricks shares her insights on how to take a good Ask and turn it into the most effective Ask by providing best practices and solid examples of her own fundraising experiences. Her engaging, entertaining, and inspirational style of writing will transform anyone′s fear of asking into an action plan to make the right Ask.
This book is written for anyone who wants to develop the fundraising skills needed to achieve greater success and learn how to ask with confidence.
Praise for The Ask
“Do you want to think bigger about who you are and what you offer the world? Of course you do. Then you need to do the work, but you shouldn′t do it alone. That′s why you must be able to ask. Laura′s book will show you how to do so with grace and strength. Highly recommended.”
Michael Port, New York Times bestselling author, The Think Big Manifesto
“Laura gives great examples of how to make each Ask a positive experience for the asker…and the person being asked.”
John E. Möller, director, Office of Protocol,The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
“People are more involved and more passionate than ever about causes in their life and reaching goals, yet most still are not very good at the most important part: asking for what they want! This book offers comprehensive but practical advice on how to connect with, convince, and inspire people to help you succeed in your goals whether it′s business, charitable, personal, or any aspect of your life.”
Paulette V. Maehara, president and CEO, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Alexandria, Virginia
“This book is a clear road map for initiating and making the Ask in the not–for–profit and business sectors. As the president of an executive recruitment firm, I see this book as an invaluable resource for planning your career and landing your best job.”
Gail L. Freeman, president, Freeman Philanthropic Services, New York
“Laura is the wizard of strategic fundraising, and this is a guidebook for all of us to use in everyday matters whether it′s asking for a raise or negotiating with our partner.”
Donna Weaver, founder, WeaverWorks, Yardley, Pennsylvania and former corporate communications executive in the apparel industry
About the Author
The Author
Laura Fredricks, JD, is an expert fundraiser, an internationally known inspirational speaker, and principal owner of her own boutique consulting company for nonprofits and businesses (www.laura–fredricks.com). She is author of The Ask: How to Ask Anyone for Any Amount for Any Purpose and Developing Major Gifts.
Prior to opening her own company, Laura was the vice president for philanthropy at Pace University in New York City, where she raised $92 million in six years. She has been teaching nonprofit business management and fundraising techniques since 1994 for the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, Duke University, New York University, and the Smithsonian Institution. She holds a communication degree from Rutgers College and a law degree from Western New England College School of Law.
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