PROTOTYPE: How to Build Critical Planned Giving Relationships-Outline: Critical Relationships

Outline: Critical Relationships

Pdf Summary

The presentation, <strong>“Critical Relationships in Planned Giving,”</strong> by Rebecca Rothey, CFRE, CAP, AEP, emphasizes that successful planned giving depends on strong, thoughtful relationships. It introduces three key relationship categories: <strong>external</strong>, <strong>internal</strong>, and <strong>self</strong>.

Externally, fundraisers must understand the donor’s personal network, including family, close friends, and other influential people who may shape giving decisions. The session highlights the importance of honoring a donor’s values, legacy, and philanthropic motivations, while asking questions that deepen understanding and trust. It also addresses the role of professional advisors such as financial planners, attorneys, and trust officers, as well as the influence of religious, business, and community ties.

Internally, the presentation stresses collaboration across departments such as finance, legal, development, and mission-driven teams. It notes that strong planned giving work requires alignment with organizational leadership, awareness of institutional priorities and limitations, and clear, ethical communication to ensure responsible stewardship.

A central message of the session is that the <strong>relationship with oneself</strong> is the foundation for all others. Self-awareness, personal values, past experiences, mentors, and ethics all affect how fundraisers engage donors and colleagues. Authenticity is presented as essential for building trust in both donor and institutional relationships.

Overall, the presentation encourages professionals to approach planned giving with relationship-centered practices, ethical awareness, and a commitment to understanding the people and systems involved.

Keywords

planned giving

donor relationships

relationship building

fundraising ethics

external relationships

internal collaboration

self-awareness

donor motivations

professional advisors

philanthropic legacy