How to Craft Gift Agreements

"Philanthropist sues university over hiring decisions."

No fundraiser wants to deal with a donor lawsuit or lose a hard-earned gift. Yet news accounts of wealthy donors reneging on multimillion-dollar pledges, or filing lawsuits when things go sour, drive home the need for gift agreements that can stand the test of time.

How can you draft agreements that honor a donor's wishes and protect your nonprofit's interests far into the future?

Join the Chronicle on and learn from Richard Marker, a philanthropy adviser and former head of a foundation who will provide advice on how to help donors clearly define their expectations for a gift. He'll share ways to determine what you can and should not promise in exchange for a donation and tips for properly articulating expectations in writing.

You'll also hear from Felicia Murphy-Phillips, a top fundraiser at Morehouse College. She'll offer tactics for communicating regularly with donors – from the start of a relationship until long after a gift is made – to prevent pitfalls and ensure that your key supporters feel valued.

What Will You Learn?

• Questions to ask big donors to clarify their long-term expectations for a gift
• Ways to protect your nonprofit's interests and avoid making promises you can't keep
• How to communicate with benefactors to ensure mutual satisfaction for the long term

Who Should Attend?

• Major Gifts Officers and Leadership Giving Professionals
• Executive Directors, CEOs and Trustees
• Development Directors, Chief Development Officers and Advancement staff
• Philanthropic and Financial Advisors

SPEAKERS: