Second, comments are impossible to read…they’re too light and way to fancy. Unless of course you are only wanting to communicate with people who don’t need reading glasses.

Third, you say:

…necessitates communicating with a broad base, talking to folks about the work we’re doing, building relationships, staying in touch, making people feel involved enough to want to be members and supporters – which is the same thing as organizing.

This is exactly what good fundraising is. I worked in development for ten years and when organizations are doing what you say, they’re successful at fundraising. When they don’t, they’re not. Because without broad support from people, no organization will be successful at raising money from foundations.

Finally, you say:

It makes me sad how often people talk about fundraising like it’s the dirty work of a movement, totally disconnected from organizing and strategy.

It’s dirty work only to middle and owning class folks.

I grew up working class and understand the deep desire for people to help each other. In my neighborhood, we shared power tools and car rides to the grocery store. When one family would go crabbing, they’d share their bounty with everyone.

When you’re close to the edge, there’s no shame in asking for help.

I think that made me an excellent fundraiser. The classist institutions did me in, though.

Great work. I’m looking forward to keeping up with your blog.