In Chapter Five of my book, Giving Done Right, I laid out 10 rules for givers wishing to build effective relationships with nonprofits. Here they are.

1) Don't force a fit. 2) Recognize that if you're a big giver, you live in a bubble of positivity -- and take steps to burst the bubble and learn. 3) Don't assume you have what it takes to strengthen nonprofits or build their capabilities. Ask what they need.

4) Don't restrict your gifts, and make them last. 5) Calibrate what you ask of nonprofits to the size of your gifts. 6) If you have to make a restricted gift, allow for a decent "overhead" rate and offer as much flexibility as possible.

7) Prioritize relationships and make your expectations clear. 8) Use your unique vantage point and influence to help nonprofits do their work better. 9) If you have to end a relationship with an org you fund, do it transparently and with a lot of notice.

10) Decline applicants in a way that's honest and respectful of their time.

This stuff is not rocket science. But it's not common practice either. Understand more about why -- and how to be a great giver (or to help your board members or donors be great givers) in the book: https://cep.org/giving-done-right/