They want to be sure their money is being spent wisely. And generally women like to have their giving targeted to a specific area. In general, it is believed that men give to preserve the status quo while women give to change. Women give instinctively to improve the world and to make a real difference. Women are by nature caretakers and feel a greater need than men to insure the growth and continuation of activities or institutions that have benefited her or her family.
Conversation is considered a key in approaching women for gifts.
It has been found to be critical to develop a personal link with women before asking for a gift. Women's colleges involve alumnae in all levels of alumnae relations and fund raising and appear to be more sensitive and concerned about how alumnae feel about their institution. Sixty percent of the wealth in the U.S. is owned by women. Forty percent of all executive management and administrative positions in the Fortune 500 companies are held by women. E Economists predict that in the next 20 years eight trillion dollars will be transferred to baby boomers - most of it will go into the hands of women because they outlive men by an average of seven years.