Blog

  • The Art and Science of Donor Bliss

    Do you want to learn more about “Donor Bliss”?

    Most of us embark on our giving journey with a heartfelt desire to make a difference or create a positive impact on what truly matters to us.

    Whether it’s standing up for a cause, uplifting our communities, finding a cure for a disease, or simply living our values, the act of giving often comes from a place of deep passion and personal commitment.

    When we give thoughtfully, we unlock a wonderful experience—the joy of giving. This joy isn’t our goal, but rather a beautiful byproduct of our generous actions.

    If this resonates with you, we invite you to explore our book, The Art and Science of Donor Bliss.

    It’s a heartwarming and practical guide for donors who wish to enhance the impact of their generosity.

    Discover how you can find your own Donor Bliss!

    Are you in the professional world of…

    • Fundraising?
    • Advancement Services?
    • Nonprofit Leadership?

    If so, you will find the stories and practical guidance for donors to be insightful in your work.

    Your group can enjoy discounts and presentation bundles!

    Contact us

  • Building and cultivating relationships

    Donors partner for shared values

    I contemplate innovative strategies for establishing and nurturing relationships that emphasize the importance of shared values between donors and nonprofits.

    The connection between individuals and organizations lies in their common purpose and vision. People yearn to engage actively in philanthropic efforts that resonate with their values. Donors seek partnerships with institutions that reflect their beliefs, as they strive to address the needs of our world collaboratively.

    In our role as relationship builders, it is essential to articulate a clear and compelling mission and vision. Actively listening to volunteers and potential donors to understand their interests and passions is critical. This engagement helps to forge deeper connections and aligns them with our work. By attracting and fostering relationships with partners who are equally passionate about our mission, we create a powerful synergy that not only enhances our efforts but also enriches the joy of giving for all involved.

    Let’s spread the word about the Joy of Giving together!

    Contact us to learn more

  • A Donor Bliss Experience

    Giving with joy

    Each year, Eric has the privilege of recommending a recipient of the Lionel Billman Memorial Scholarship award at his hometown high school. Approximately 60 students receive scholarships annually, with many receiving multiple awards. These scholarships cover everything from book costs to full tuition.

    In addition to a variety of memorial scholarships, awards are granted by organizations representing The Arts, Primary and Secondary Education, specific student activities, and a diverse range of community, regional, and national organizations.

    The process of reviewing potential candidates for the Lionel Billman Memorial Scholarship has been a cherished tradition for us for many years. Reflecting Lionel’s deep commitment to his hometown, this scholarship is awarded to students who aspire to return and give back to their community after completing higher education.

    Participating in the process each year reminds us at Donor Bliss Consulting of the profound joy found in family legacy giving. It is a privilege to be part of a long-standing tradition that honors family heritage while making a positive impact in the community.

    Eric Billman presents the Lionel Billman Memorial Scholarship
    (Cass County Community Foundation)

  • Quralew Co-op Wins Top Prize

    Families and Giving

    Earlham College Creative Capitalism Competition

    Sometimes we just have to brag a little. Over the course of three months, we coached a team of students who had big plans for making an impact on employment and waste management in Ethiopia. Their team leader was a part of our lives for two school years and we were happy to share our strategic planning expertise with his team.

    Their journey included many hours of working out the business numbers and preparing for incremental presentations. Along the way, they created a professional level two minute infomercial video and made a mock “Shark Tank” pitch. Three of the team were devoted members of the track team. Did I mention that they were also full time students and none of them business majors? One was also a freshman.

    At the final competition, four other teams had great ideas in various stages of implementation. All competitors were passionate about their ideas for saving the world. We just about held our breath for the entire 20 minutes of our team’s presentation.

    Please join us in congratulating the Quralew Co-op team on their first place win. They worked hard for it!

  • The Sewing Machine Project

    The Sewing Machine Project

    Donor Bliss Consulting partners with the Sewing Machine Project. A portion of each book sale will be passed on to this wonderful example of Donor Bliss!
    If you are passionate about textile arts or are looking for a cause worthy of your support, please visit the Sewing Machine Project website for more information.

  • Starting with “Why”

    Our giving story

    Before our wedding, we talked about the importance of being generous. At that time, our discussion was about tithing, although it extended into organizations and causes that were important to each of us. We agreed that we had a desire to impact the lives of others through our generosity.

    We believe blessings come from thoughtful giving and from developing a lifestyle of giving.

    The Joy of partnering
    Amidst uplifting stories of philanthropy that illustrate the joy of giving, you will learn a purposeful approach to charitable giving.

    Both of us were taught how to give by our parents, and for that, we are deeply grateful. Through the years, we have come to experience the joy that results from giving, and we cherish each opportunity. For example, after 9/11, we were thrilled to be able to do something substantial (for us) that would help address the very pressing reality and needs of people in the aftermath of tragedy with a gift to the Red Cross. We are thankful for the chance to contribute in a meaningful way.

    Whether it has been buying a goat for a family in a third world country, sponsoring a child’s education in Africa, or supporting higher education, we have indeed experienced Donor Bliss as a result of our giving. We recognize how fortunate we are to engage in these acts of compassion, and we carry immense gratitude for the positive impact our contributions can have on others’ lives.