Wouldn’t it be great to know why a donor is giving to your organization? Recently I’ve run into a couple of lists that are right on target!

Jerold Panas, a perenial expert on giving, recently repeated his three-point mantra on why people give to a particular organization:

1. Belief in the mission
2. Fiscal responsibility
3. Trust in the staff, especially the chief executive

The Bank of America High Net Worth Study, issued every two years, asked donors about their motivations for giving, reported in 2010. Here’s what those donors said:

1. Being moved by how their gift can make a difference (72 percent).
2. Feeling financially secure (71 percent).
3. Giving to an organization that will use their donation efficiently (71 percent).
4. Supporting the same causes or organizations annually (66 percent).

These motivations were consistent with the most recent 2012 report.