I grew up in Brazil during a time when inflation was so out of control that restaurants would pencil in new prices on the menu every day.

I remember being a kid and already understanding what inflation meant for our family. At one point, inflation hit 19% in a single month. In many stores, prices were not even posted. You had to ask, and someone would check the price for that day.

That kind of environment forces people to become financially sharp very quickly.

But here is what stayed with me most. Even in the middle of economic chaos, people did not stop being generous.

Over the years, that has shaped the way I think about fundraising and leadership. Generosity is not ultimately driven by the economy. It is driven by the heart of the giver.

Yes, some people may pull back during uncertain times. But truly generous people do not only give when the market is up and everything feels safe. They give because generosity is part of who they are.

Some of the most significant gifts I have ever helped secure came during moments of crisis.

That is why I believe leaders in nonprofits, mission-driven organizations, and churches must be careful not to make the wrong assumption.

It is not your job to decide for someone else that now is a bad time to give.

It is your job to give them a compelling reason to invest in something that matters.

Generous people give in good times and in bad times.

So do not let uncertainty cause you to shrink the vision, delay the ask, or assume no one is ready. If your mission matters, present it clearly. Invite people boldly. Let them respond.

People are still looking for something worth believing in.

Make sure they can see it.