2022 seemed to come with a little less fanfare than usual due to the ongoing pandemic. In some ways, it might feel like a continuation of 2020 and 2021. You might be feeling tired and worn or refreshed and energized, confused, hopeful, or even optimistic about 2022.

No matter how you're entering this year, having a solid strategy for personal and fundraising success remains critical. We'd like to take the opportunity to offer some ideas and to help you refocus as the calendar resets.

Being prepared felt difficult over the last two years because of many unpredictable factors and variables. Still, there are a few areas where preparation (even for the unexpected) can be instrumental and lead to greater success overall.

Every year, my mother continues to give one member of our extended family a gift for the holidays. Why? Because this one cousin always sends my mother a thank-you note in return. Something about this exchange creates a transaction of value for both parties - Mum gets the warm fuzzies of dopamine, and my cousin gets gifts.

As the rush of holiday giving begins to slow, organizations will continue sending requests for donations. It's easy to get lost in this flood of calls-to-action and requests.

Over the last two years, there's been lots of talk about virtual fundraising amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of us shifted to online events and various virtual fundraising strategies (seemingly ages ago), while in-person gatherings weren't safe or feasible.

During the initial rush to incorporate virtual fundraising strategies, many people believed it was just a temporary shift. However, there are incredible benefits to this type of fundraising. From building stronger relationships with donors who live far away to diversifying your fundraising events and attracting more people, the advantages of virtual fundraisers are significant. Many experts indicate that virtual fundraising is here to stay, regardless of what happens next with the pandemic.

College groups and clubs usually need extra money for various reasons, from funding a service project or buying supplies for an event to attending conferences or events. There are loads of great reasons for college clubs and organizations to fundraise.

But let's be honest, you've probably experienced that awkward walk past yet another fundraising table on campus. Even if it's a worthy cause, it can be tough to justify buying yet another baked good or participating in one more "change for change" campaign.

Have no fear; we've rounded up some great fundraising ideas for college students, clubs, and organizations that don't involve those awkward fundraising tables or uncomfortable conversations!

Nonprofit advocacy and grassroots fundraising campaigns offer your supporters different ways to get involved in your mission, attract new donors, and expand your network. Nonprofits are utilizing this strategy more than ever to go beyond the standard fundraising campaigns and encourage their supporters to take different actions throughout the year.

If your organization is considering incorporating these strategies into your fundraising campaigns, we've got some best practices and insights to help you plan an influential and effective grassroots and advocacy campaign!