Art of Fundraising
Our founder, Dr. Henry Rosso, defined fundraising as “the gentle art of teaching the joy of giving.” This course goes beyond the specific tools and techniques of fundraising to teach the “amazing skills” of fundraising such as active listening, empathy, emotional intelligence, and additional others-focused skills that are central to connecting with donors and understanding their motivations.
Certificates: Fund Raising Leadership,
| Location | Dates | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (Asynchronous) | September 15, 2025 - October 12, 2025 | $1,040.00 | Register |
| Fort Lauderdale | February 05, 2026 - February 06, 2026 | $990.00 | Registration opening soon |
| Indianapolis | June 04, 2026 - June 05, 2026 | $990.00 | Registration opening soon |
Course Details
Please review the attendance policy and cancellation/transfer policy before registering.
Schedule
The Art of Fundraising is offered in-person or online.
In-person Schedule
The in-person class is two days in length.
Day 1: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Day 2: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30 | What is the art of fundraising? Introductions & Expectations Course Objectives Discussion: What is the art of fundraising? |
| 10:00 | Break |
| 10:15 | Defining Empathy What is empathy? What is not empathy? Theory and research |
| 11:45 | Lunch |
| 1:00 | Self-Awareness for Fundraisers The roles of fundraisers Foundational elements of strong donor/fundraiser relationships |
| 3:00 | Break |
| 3:15 | Empathy Practice Group activities designed to increase empathy |
| 4:45 | Summarize and conclude |
| 5:00 | Adjourn |
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30 | The donor/fundraiser relationship Relationship development process |
| 10:00 | Break |
| 10:15 | Addressing burnout, compassion fatigue, and self-care Emotional labor Setting boundaries Dealing with difficult donors |
| 11:45 | Lunch |
| 1:00 | Developing empathy skills in others Empathy in donor contact reports Conflict resolution techniques Bringing the team on board |
| 3:00 | Break |
| 3:15 | The art of fundraising in the field Review and wrap up Action planning Final reflections Certificates and celebration |
| 5:00 | Adjourn |
Online Schedule
The online course is four weeks in length.
Each week you’ll have a course module to complete. Each module consists of:
- readings from a PDF study guide
- viewing a pre-recorded narrated presentation
- completing an 8-question quiz where you must score a 6 or higher
- engaging in forum discussions with others
- and submitting assignments.
More details about the online format and requirements may be viewed here.
Week 1: Empathy and the art of fundraising
What is empathy? What is not empathy?
Theory and research
Discussion: What is the art of fundraising?
Assignment: Listening exercise
Week 2: The donor/fundraiser relationship
The roles of fundraisers
Foundational elements of strong donor/fundraiser relationships
Relationship development process
Discussion: Roles and qualities of successful fundraisers
Assignment: Examine a donor relationship and apply the research
Week 3: The art of engagement
Engaging all donors
Discussion: strategies for a donor you’re “stuck” on
Assignment: Engagement opportunities
Week 4: Gratitude and fundraising
Expressions of gratitude and stewardship
Discussion: analysis of recent donor communication for gratitude
Assignment: course reflections
To be eligible for the Certificate of Achievement, all coursework must be completed and submitted no later than Sunday of week 4 at 11:59 p.m. ET. This is a firm deadline and late work will not be accepted.
Location
Please click on the city name for further details and recommended hotel accommodations. Registrants will receive complete course logistical information upon registration.
CFRE Education Points
Full participation in many of The Fund Raising School’s courses fulfill education point requirements for Category 1.B-Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.
The Art of Fundraising qualifies for 13.5 CFRE Education Points/Hours.
IMPORTANT REGISTRATION NOTE: Tuition payment is due before the class begins and may be paid by credit card or check. All cancellations and transfers are subject to an administrative fee of $275.