Major Gifts Ramp-Up Archives - InsideCharity.org

December 18, 2024

I Was Wrong: Jimmy LaRose and I Agree On Everything That Matters w Jim Eskin

About a year ago I hosted Jimmy LaRose in our Non-Profit Empowerment webinar series. We labeled the program: Let’s Agree to Disagree. During this lively one-hour discussion, I had the chance to ask him 20 questions probing challenges and opportunities confronting American philanthropy. Now, after reading his most recent book Major Gifts Ramp-Up: Money Is Oxygen — Without It Charities Can’t Breathe, co-authored with Joanne Oppelt, I can proudly and unequivocally declare that we are […]

December 18, 2024

Stefanie Stark Takes the Helm at America’s No. 1 Major Gifts Fundraising Company

Stefanie Stark was recently named president of the world renowned major gifts fundraising firm Development Systems International (DSI). Founder Jimmy LaRose celebrated by sharing, “Stefanie’s ascension has been unprecedented. She’s raised millions and makes charities’ dreams come true. Stefanie is DSI’s future!” She is a distinguished nonprofit management expert with nearly three decades of experience in the charitable sector. As President of Development Systems International (DSI), she champions the Major Gifts Ramp-Up (MGRU) Model and […]

March 28, 2025

Hall Powell at 86…His Life of Leadership and Faith

Henry “Hall” Powell, Jr. celebrates his 86th birthday this March 31st, and is honored by his peers for his remarkable legacy of leadership in both the nonprofit sector and Christian ministry. This tribute honors a man whose career spans decades and whose influence spans generations. Hall’s life has been defined by service – from raising funds to transform and save lives to guiding others in their walks of faith. Jimmy LaRose, one of Hall’s proteges, […]

June 18, 2025

Chris Smith – 10 Do’s and Don’ts of Donor Relations

I made a year-end gift to a favorite charity several years ago. It was the fulfillment of a pledge made months before. Outside of church, this was the largest check I had ever written to a non-profit. For me, it was a big check. A really big check. I counted the CEO as a friend, had volunteered at the facility, and believed in their mission. Writing the check filled me with joy. It felt good. […]