Fundraisers often ask, Why should I spend time working with young donors? In response, I often challenge them to perform a simple test: analyzing the age of their current donor base. If they're like many organizations, they'll find a significant number of donors age 40 and over. I imagine you're in the same boat, and youre likely thinking, So, what's wrong with that? That's where the money is; that's the most efficient base. If I can meet my goals focusing on that base, why spend time chasing younger donors with fewer dollars? It is true that a lot (but not all) of the money is in that older demographic. But fundraising isnt and never should be simply about raising money today. Its about developing relationships that result in long-term stability and effectiveness.