How to Write the Perfect Donor Bio

Here's my outline for a thorough yet succinct major gifts donor bio. It's universally useful and not too fussy. I use it constantly.

Primary Names
Aliases (include nicknames and maiden names)
Record number in your database 
Contact info
Photo

Relationship with Your Organization
•    How they became connected to your organization
•    Years of involvement, key groups and leadership roles
•    Current donor status
•    Key relationships within your organization, especially board
•    Two sentence max summary on last key contact with organization

Professional and Civic Background
•    Companies and leadership roles
•    Important business info, especially newsworthy events
•    Involvement in other nonprofits or civic groups
•    Giving to other organizations (quick to read chart form is ideal)
•    Schools attended, alumni roles

Family and Personal Background
•    Key family members and relevant history
•    Spouse, basics about children
•    Residences
•    Interests, hobbies not otherwise covered
•    Anything else important that didn’t fit in above

Optional: Possible Interest Areas
•    Briefly identify 3-4 possible interest areas within your organization

Footer: Your name, date, and possibly list key sources

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