The fundraising world is fast paced. It’s ever-evolving as means and methods for donor communications and engagements change. So it’s easy to get lost in the laundry list of deliverables, strategies, reports—the “what’s” and the “how’s”—that fill our calendars.

The inner workings of what we do as fundraisers are important, yes. But over the years, I’ve never seen anything light up a team like truly knowing why we do what we do.

Fundraising is a privilege—because every dollar raised represents a life changed. That’s our mission; that’s our why, our purpose. And it’s awe-inspiring to see teams of uniquely gifted professionals and subject matter experts align their skills to achieve a singular mission.

That’s purpose-driven impact. And as leaders, we must endeavor to keep our shared “why” at the forefront of every “what” we ask of our teams.

Because purpose is the force that binds our teams together, transforming mundane tasks into meaningful contributions. When everyone is aligned to the same why, a collective passion emerges, turning each project into a journey of discovery and learning for greater results. Our work, then, is no longer just about hitting targets; it’s about creating a lasting impact in our world.

But aligning teams takes work, and it’s not for the faint of heart! Ben Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”

This quote is one of many posted above my desk as a reminder that greater output requires greater investment, and building into teams centered on a shared why should be a daily habit. I’ve seen the magic that unfolds when individuals become more than teammates, growing into champions for a singular cause. These purpose-driven teams are resilient teams, navigating challenges with unwavering determination because they understand the profound impact of their individual and collective efforts.

So today, let’s commit to not only building teams of highly skilled professionals, but also fostering a culture where our “why” stands out as the flame that fuels our collective passion. Embrace intentional team involvement, where every member is an active participant in the pursuit of a greater purpose. And together, let’s learn, grow, and create a legacy of fundraising impact that goes far beyond the boundaries of campaigns and initiatives as we make our world a better place.