Posts by Barry Spencer

There are patterns to life. Things that happen on a repeatable basis. Like the seasons that come in their given time, so do certain motivations as we move toward end…

Give and Get What you give out is what you receive in return. It is the parable of the seed and harvest in the bible. If you plant seeds of…

“News” The news today comes at us fast and furious. It is laced with emotionally charged words regardless of which side of the argument you are on. But think for…

This Conversation Matters The planned giving conversation matters for the donor. While annual giving meets immediate needs quicker than planned giving, don’t dismiss how planned giving can help. Too many…

Three Donor Questions “But dad, what do I say?” This is the question my kids ask me when faced with a challenge in their studies, and they don’t even know…

The Starting Point to Giving Dr. Stephen R. Covey’s best selling book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, first published in 1989, has sold more than 25 million copies…

When is the Best Time? The African Proverb asks and answers this question: “When’s the best time to plant a tree?” “Twenty years ago.” “When’s the second best time?” “Today!”…

Circle of Influence Donors have spent a lifetime developing professional relationships to enhance the success of their business or career. It’s their “circle of influence.” Now, in retirement, that network…

Generations of Philanthropy Their jeans have always told the story of hard work and good value. In 1866, Levi Strauss, a German-Jewish immigrant, built his first store and the foundation…

Involuntary Philanthropists Webster’s Dictionary defines a philanthropist as “a benevolent supporter of human beings and human welfare.” When I grew up and heard that big word, guess who I thought…