The next in the AFP International Conference Series (last day – almost done, promise!) is ‘Generational Giving’ with June Bradham, Tucker Branham (both CFREs from Corporate Development) and Rachel Hutchisson of Blackbaud.  They started with a personification of the generations.

Roles

Boomers

“I love rock n’ roll, my first computer weighed 25 pounds.  I’m getting older and wondering what ‘fulfillment’ will look like after I get done working.  My kids are grown and mostly gone and I’m really excited about it :).

Gen X

“40-ish” Don’t call me at home, the only ones that do are students at university phone-a-thons or local political candidates (neither of which you want to be perceived as). Email me and I’ll get back to you. If I haven’t led yet, I’m ready for Boomers to retire and let me shine a bit

Gen Y

I’m always moving fast. Email is to slow. If you want to reach me, use Facebook or Twitter. I consume media how I want, when I want (mobile, Pandora, etc.). I set up all my parents technology.  If you ask for my opinion, you’d better want it. And you’d better use it.  If you do – I have a lot to offer and I’ll bring my friends along.

Giving & Expectations

Boomers

• Giving to fewer causes
• More concerened with feeling passionate about causes
• Peer to peer and senior level is best
• We know we’re getting older, but we are not ready to admit it
• Done with long, boring, ineffective meetings – but still a lot to offer
• Give because of strong organizational leadership
• I only want to talk to someone at the top level (who doesn’t

Gen X

• Busy
• Motivated
• Results oriented
• Family focused – but able to multi-task
• Struggle with work/life balance
• Ready to lead and love to network
• ROI is important
• Involve our children
• Tired of being passed over for boards because people want their bosses

Millennials

• Passionate
• Vocal
• Connected
• Impact
• Have a voice and were encouraged to use it & share it from an early age. Don’t be offended when we do.
• Passion for change
• Need to be heard/have good ideas
• Impact and Cause over organization
• Absolutely tired of giving EVERYTHING and never being HEARD
• If you disengage them now and don’t hear them – you’ll never get them back

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