For years I believed the weathered fundraising maxim that Job One was to convince and convert people to the mission of my specific project. Then they’d give. Then they’d get involved.  What I’ve discovered over the years, though, is that it’s after people write a check that they really start to get involved.  People discover their passions in the act of giving.

Think about yourself. It’s after you’ve written a check that you start to feel like you are part of any effort.   So bypass the long cultivation period.  Just get out there and ask people to partner with you.

When we actually start doing, start acting, that’s when the fire of service gets ignited.  This isn’t about beginning with the end in mind.  This is about beginning.