Working Together for Greater Impact
The Theme
The theme for FIA Conference 2023 was Together, Unlimited. And it certainly did feel like there was a sense of togetherness. It was so wonderful to attend in person and there was a great feeling of energised fundraisers and suppliers who wanted to learn and connect.
We repeatedly heard phrases such as ‘Individually, we are incredible’ but ‘together, we make the world better. And, together, there’s nothing we can’t do’ and I often felt the agreement in the room when those words were spoken.
This theme was echoed throughout the conference in many sessions and discussions. Here are some of the highlights of what was exciting to see and hear about:
Sharing & learning across our sector
Fundraisers are often known as an industry that is good at sharing knowledge and learnings. It would be great to have lots of opportunities to do more of this, including the ups and downs, sharing about successes and failures and being open to others’ ideas and learnings.
Not every fundraiser or organisation gets to do this, but isn’t it great that gatherings like the FIA Conference encourage and actively promote working together to see even greater impact?!
An interesting element to be mindful of though. While it’s important to learn and share with each other, it’s equally as important to innovate and get creative to avoid too much ‘copycat fundraising’.
Tracks presented together
As an example, the Gifts in Wills and Individual Giving tracks came together to jointly hold a session on the debate about ‘Direct Mail Vs. Digital’ on Thursday. This enabled a well-rounded discussion on its importance, along with real examples and the sharing of experiences and learnings.
Making a bigger impact
By working together, bigger sector-wide changes can be made, and perceptions of the fundraising profession and the NFP industry can be challenged. This can’t and won’t be done alone, but by working collectively together to make big change.
We heard of CEOs and senior fundraising leaders from different organisations coming together to form collaborative working groups and think tanks. There are some big issues to tackle, and alone it may seem impossible, but together – we can see change. Ultimately, this could help organisations make a bigger and longer-lasting impact on those they serve.
It was so great to see such togetherness at this year’s conference, and the thought that Together, Unlimited will continue is exciting.
Jenni (left) pictured with Jenny and Michelle at the Awards night