When I switched from major gift fundraising to direct response, I explained to my friends that, at last, I could deal with humanity without having to deal with people.

Actually, I really, truly, like people. But, at the same time I must admit that dealing with them at 30,000 feet is better than one-on-one at ground level. And so my fascination with the online world is rooted in the reality that we really can relate to one another — at least on the surface.

Online is like direct mail on steroids. Audio. Video. Feedback. The whole enchilada without the person. Sweet.

All of which brings me to touting an online conference you’ll want to attend. A great opportunity to learn from fundraisers without ever having to mix with fundraisers face to face. A blessing, at least in my book.

On May 15 and 16 the Resource Alliance, producer of what I think are the best conferences in the fundraising world, will hold its annual Fundraising Online Conference. I urge you to register today.

Not only will you avoid meeting face to face with an endless parade of vendors and consultants decked out in badges and ribbons that would do a third world air force general proud, you’ll actually learn something.

In fact, you’ll learn a lot about what’s going on in the Digital World from some of the best folks in the business. Take a quick tour of the conference site here.

I talked to my long-time friend and colleague Mike Johnston at HJC New Media, who’s chairing this year’s session and, even discounting Mike’s usual exuberance, it looks like a winner.

Here’s the deal:

• For $260 you can register and get everyone in your office on board. For those who can’t attend on the 15^th and 16^th, recorded sessions will be available for three months. Bargain.
• Ted Hart, a pioneer in this space, will lead off with the Plenary Session.
• The sessions themselves are designed to help everyone from generalists to channel integrators to even the green eye shade accountant types. Check out the program and you’ll see something for you.

Of course they’re also channeling the goodies via social media so you’ll find ‘em at:

LinkdIn

FaceBook

YouTube

Twitter

Vimeo

Frankly, I can’t think of a better way to spend two days. Resource Alliance, you deserve a raise!

Roger