Directed at local nonprofits, such as a rape crisis center and a dance company, Golden's fund-raising advice differs from standard counsel on grant proposal writing. After 20 years in the development business in Cleveland, she believes creating that thick document is a time waster and the lowest priority on a leader's task list. A better place to start is to systematically consider how foundations and governments make grants: some respond to emergencies, some to a chronically unmet need, and some to ongoing requirements, such as operating expenses. Golden gives a pep talk--replete with aphorisms from Mao Tse-tung and Che Guevara (neither noted for sympathy with capitalist philanthropy)--on thoroughly preparing oneself and one's organization for the initial contacts and meetings, and for sustaining the personal relationships made thereby for the future health of the nonprofit. Her practical guide is capped by addresses of 190 public and special private libraries that the Foundation Center in Washington, D.C., routinely stocks with its materials.
Gilbert Taylor
Review
"Susan Golden provides not just another book on proposal writing, but one which provides a realistic view of proposal writing with practical step-by-step guidance towards success -- useful for both novice and experienced grantwriters." (Patricia F. Lewis, ACFR, president and CEO, National Society of Fund Raising Executives)
"Secrets of Successful Grantsmanship identifies the key element of fundraising -- relationships. In a high-tech world, organizations that raise money must be high-touch -- relationships are the best way: focused, disciplined, and persistent." (Anita D. Joseph, director, Association Financial Development, YMCA of the USA)
"Success in fundraising is not about how money was given, it is about raising friends and building relationships between the community that needs services and the organizations that provide them. Susan Golden offers the same guarantee for success with grantmakers -- make them your friends and build lasting relationships." (James M. Greenfield, ACFRE, FAHP, senior vice president, Development and Community Relations, Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian)
"The presentation in this book is unusually clear and direct -- it asks all the right questions and provides understandable real world answers." (Bruce A. Loessin, vice president, Development, Case Western Reserve University)
"Armed with the step-by-step approach of Secrets of Successful Grantsmanship, you will not only significantly improve your success rate as a grantwriter, but you will also learn how to avoid wasting time on 'long shots.'" (Kenneth W. McLaughlin, president and CEO, Greater Cleveland YMCA)
"In an era when organizations focus on short term results, Secrets of Successful Grantsmanship highlights for the practicing professional the application of 'The Relationship' (advocacy) plan of action versus 'The Transaction' (get the grant and go) mentality. Golden frames the process with skill and practical understanding." (Jon Labahn, principal and senior consultant, Strategic Resources Management, Ltd.)
