The Art of Reciprocity (AoR) began with a need to develop a fundraising guide that speaks to Native people, fundraisers, and philanthropists who are in the trenches of creating change; people with the heart but not always the tools or access to the resources of many professional fundraisers. There is a need for a model that reflects the Native experience, history and culture of giving.  The goal of AoR is to train trainers who can use this model as a template to develop a fund development training program and support system within each community, which reflects the values, culture and history of giving grounded in their own experience and vision of the future.  Many groups can benefit from this model including Native communities who have grantees, communities who are interested in establishing sustainable funding or a foundation, and Native communities and nonprofits desiring to implement a fund development plan.
 

The Art of Reciprocity is:

1. A philanthropic, fundraising curriculum that honors culture, promotes purpose, encourages inter-generational and inter-tribal participation and embraces the universal elements that connect all of life.
2. Rich in cultural traditions, embraces contemporary training, and emphasizes Native teachings, stories, values, and practices.
3. A framework that seeks to create long-term vision for capacity building in
   Native Communities.
4. An individual and an organizational tool for building capacity in the areas
   of fundraising and philanthropy.
5. A map for development planning rather than grant writing guide.
6. An opportunity to learn, to teach, to inspire, to create, to renew.
7. A decolonized model of giving, receiving, & sharing in Native communities.

The Art of Reciprocity Cycle

Gifts of the Earth -- Generosity, Life, Respect, Rootedness
Origins, Philanthropy, Social Exchange Model

Gifts of the East -- Vision, Preparing for the Journey
Case Statement, Beginnings, Renewal, Hope, Devotion to the Service of Others, Illumination, Courage, Seeing the Rainbow.

Gifts of the South -- Relationships, Growth, Nurturance
Cultivation of Donors, Fundraising Tools, Clarity, Youth, Generosity, Heart, Loyalty, Idealism, Compassion, Involvement in the World.

Gifts of the West -- Integrity, Giving Thanks
Stewardship, Gifts Acknowledgement, Communications, Perseverance, Sacrifice, Fasting, Reflection, Ceremony, Respect, Humility, Commitment, Awareness of
our Spiritual Nature.
 
Gifts of the North -- Wisdom, Elders, Leadership, Understanding
Creating a Development Plan, Analyzing, Integrating, Respect for the Struggle of Others, Commitment to Universal Life Values, Freedom, Justice.

Gifts of the Sky -- Seeing the Bigger Picture
Evaluation, Communication, Unity, Decolonization

Gifts of the Center -- Balance, Humility, Moderation, Insight, Serenity
Giving Thanks, Celebrating, Coming Full Circle, Beginning Again, Learning
 

The Art of Reciprocity Program Delivery

Native Americans in Philanthropy is committed to developing and supporting fund development expertise in your community and Indian Country.  The AoR training and support provides an opportunity to close the resource gap and increase the number of Native people educated in the field of philanthropy. It is offered as either a 6-day training, a 3-day retreat, or as a 1-day introduction.  For more information on the AoR please contact Daniel Lemm via e-mail at dlemm@nativephilanthropy.org