David Whitehead

Biography: I am the senior vice president and chief development officer for AARP and AARP Foundation. I lead all fundraising efforts, including efforts to support charitable, advocacy and social impact programs. I've been in the non-profit world for nearly 25 years and have helped a number of national and international organizations become more effective through strategic investments and revenue growth. I live in Fairfax Virginia with my wife and four children. You can follow me on Twitter @Whitehead_Dave.

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David Whitehead 'sPosts

4 More Ways to Cut Back on Your Fundraising Mail

Posted on 05/15/2012 by David Whitehead | Philanthropy & Fundraising | Comments

Volunteering | Your LifeA few weeks ago, I shared some thoughts on how to cut back on the mail/email you receive from well intentioned organizations. There were some excellent comments from readers that pointed out some additional issues that may increase the volume of mail or emails you receive. So, here are some additional suggestions on how to clear the email/mail box: 1. Call and ask organizations you support not to sell or exchange your name and address. It is standard practice for …

Three Ways to Cut Back on Fundraising Mail

Posted on 04/26/2012 by David Whitehead | Philanthropy & Fundraising | Comments

Volunteering | Your Life “Why do I get so much fundraising mail?” If you are in my position as a development professional, you sometimes get that call (or letter) from a donor that starts with, “Why do you send me so many requests for support?” Obviously, if it’s “so much” it must be “more than I want.” I usually get right to the point – how often would you like to hear from us? Would you rather join our sustainer program? (A sustaining donor …

In a Time of Enmity, the Charitable Deduction May Be Too Good to Give Up

Posted on 03/15/2012 by David Whitehead | Philanthropy & Fundraising | Comments

VolunteeringThe Federal Government is looking for money. I know, big surprise. Next target: remove the charitable gift deduction. In a recent article in the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Jack Shakely shares that in this time of deficits, the deduction may be too costly to keep. And he has a point. An individual giving a million dollar gift to a building project or a new national program – doesn’t need the tax deduction. Seventy percent of Americans don’t itemize and don’t get the …

It’s the Donor’s Money

Posted on 02/6/2012 by David Whitehead | Philanthropy & Fundraising | Comments

Money & Savings | Your LifeHave you ever noticed that when you buy a tube of toothpaste from the grocery store, that you never think the money you spend still belongs to you? Fact: you exchanged the money for the toothpaste. Toothpaste belongs to you and the money belongs to the store you bought it from. Quid pro quo, tit for tat, or as some say, “We’re square.” Not so with donations! After 23 years in fundraising, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve …