Course Description

Would you like to assure that your organization has the monetary resources necessary to provide quality care for animals? The Essentials of Fund-raising: Creating Financial Stability for Animal Care Organizations guides participants through the process of developing and implementing a comprehensive fund-raising program that will help create a financially solvent and secure organization.

This course is designed for the novice or seasoned CEO, Executive Director, Development Director, Board Member, or Volunteer charged with raising funds for an animal care organization. A variety of learning methods will be used during this fast-paced, practical, and interactive course to guide students in increasing their understanding of fund-raising concepts, methods, strategies, and application. Students will have the opportunity to apply this knowledge to draft a unique, personal, and effective fundraising plan for their organization.

This 6-week course is part of the Executive Leadership Certificate Program.

Course Objectives

Objectives of this course are to understand:

• Why it is important to have a strategic plan and sound fund-raising infrastructure for success
• Why people give and how to apply this knowledge to marketing efforts
• The legal and ethical considerations of fund-raising accountability
• The elements that go into designing and implementing a comprehensive and successful fund-raising plan
• How to develop the fund-raising ability and willingness of board members, staff, and volunteers 
• How to create an effective annual giving campaign including direct mail, special events, and web solicitation
• The process for identifying and cultivating individual major gifts 
• The components of a successful capital campaign 
• How to start a long-term planned giving program 
• How to gain private and corporate foundation funding

Required Text

Fund-Raising for Animal Care Organizations (part of the
HSUS - Shelter Management Series) – cost of the textbook is included in the course tuition

Class Format: Online

There are no scheduled lecture times; instead, you log on at your convenience to participate in weekly discussions and submit assignments. Expect to spend at least 2-4 hours per week reading materials, completing assignments, and discussing issues.