I agree wholeheartedly with Pamela regarding gaining fundraising experience.
In my diversion from the museum world, I worked at a corporate director of
public relations, and my duties included administering the charitable giving
for my company.  It was an experience that gave me tremendous insight into
the other side of the funding $ - what will I GIVE money to??  Spending
other people's money was fun, but came with an incredible responsibility
that I did not take lightly.  I now look at all my grant proposals from the
funder's prospective after they are done and ask - if I were the foundation,
would I recommend this for support?

Another great way to get some BASIC information/experience would be to call
several foundations/funding agencies in your state (NEA or NEH funded ones,
like the Ohio Council for the Humanities, or laarge companies in your area
that have foundations) and ask them for a grant application and regulations.
Check out their websites, some have forms and regulations available
online...
Read them over, fill one or two out.  Remember that you have to know the
forms you may be using, at least the basics.  See what kind of information
they require, and how long it takes to prepare one (even for a ficticious
event...).  There are many ways to learn fundraising techniques, but backing
your enthusiasm up with even basic knowledge may be of great assistance.

I would also encourage you to try to find a smaller museum that might be
interested in your volunteer goals.  Large institutions with development
departments are great places to learn, but time constraints my burden you
with your own work schedule.  Small, volunteer organizations need help, and
perhaps you are just the person to give it to them.  THey may be more
flexible with your schedule and needs as well.  I'd recommend starting on
the local level, and working your way up.

Pamela also brought up the great point about transferring knowledge from
other non-profits in the fundraising arena.  Perhaps there are other
organizations in your area that can help you gain some experience (and in
some cases, even training, for free).  Have you thought about United Way,
Cancer Assn., Red Cross, etc.?  Be careful to associate yourself only with a
reputable agency, but they can be great places to learn....

Best wishes!
Melinda Gilpin

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