Keynote Dan Pollata

I was blogging during the first part of the keynote, but it started to get really interesting so I tuned in ...

Keynote Speaker Dan Pallotta

This was a really interesting keynote speaker. I think he was very relevant for folks who already have their museums – and a good heads up for anyone looking to create one.

Dan has written a book talking about the trouble nonprofits (including museums) are facing. He talked about the root of it is that society has taught us that overhead is bad. That in nonprofits and charities – overhead – or staff, buildings, marketing campaigns are all viewed as bad because they are labeled overhead. They are not seen as part of the cause. He made a hilarious joke that the secretary answering the phones who is working just as hard as the social worker in Africa should wear a t-shirt that says “overhead”.

He believes that this negative societal view stems from early puritanical beliefs and is now reinforced by the government and “charity watchdogs.” They are teaching society and potential donors to ask the “wrong question.” The only question being “what percentage of my donation goes ‘the cause’”. Everything is the cause – marketing to get the message out about the help needed, overhead allowing the cause to be helped, planning to expand organizations to help more – is all the cause.

It was just a really fascinating look at how “the public” perceives what non profits should be doing and how their mind works for giving. I think the speaker proves the necessity of a good marketing / fundraising / pr team. It seems vital that the right message gets out to the right people in the right way - as well as societal change of course. I’m gearing up for the hands on science session. I’m hoping to pick up some tips or inspiration for library programming or maybe Pal tweaks? I was able to pick up a Starbucks before it closed at 1 (how ridiculous is that).