Nonprofit Fundraising Learning
Unleash the power of your fundraising with our curated collection of educational video courses, designed for nonprofits. Step into the expansive and changing world of raising funds effectively, navigating through the proven strategies and innovative techniques that Top Nonprofit Experts shared. These video sessions will lead you on a journey to discover the art and science of persuasive storytelling, engaging donors, and mastering grant writing – to name just a few topics. Whether you are starting a new nonprofit or looking to advance an already robust fundraising program, these learning segments are packed with actionable insights and practical tools to help you reach your goals for your charity, nonprofit, or NGO.
The world of grants for nonprofits, with Julia Patrick and Tony Beall, in a dynamic Fundraisers Friday learning episode, “Grant Writing and Readiness.” Packed with actionable and powerful takeaways, this informative conversation is your gateway to mastering the art and science of grant writing, regardless of your nonprofit's size.
Julia kicks off with a wise reminder: “Grant writers are amazing human beings—they’re the oil in the machine of nonprofit success.” From there, Tony, aka “Mr. Nonprofit Consultancy,” shares his expertise on navigating grant cycles, taking some of the mystery out of the intimidating grant process, and showing how to leverage those relationships for long-term success. He offers up, “A grant is the perfect combination of style and substance. It needs to tell a story and evoke an emotion while delivering hard data and measurable outcomes.”
Key points thoughout the conversation include understanding the importance of grant cycles, the benefits of digitized grant portals, and how to handle rejection with grace and determination. Tony speaks to the value of collaboration: “Funders are looking for solutions that make the most impact—building relationships and collaborating with other organizations can open doors you never anticipated.”
Whether you're crafting your first grant application or refining your strategy, this episode offers insights to transform your approach.
the incredible impact of the Eide Bailly ResourceFULLness Award, a unique grant that celebrates creative problem-solving among nonprofits. Host Meico Marquette Whitlock speaks with Deb Nelson from Eide Bailly and Alyssa Golob, Executive Director of Helping Paws of Minnesota, to discuss the transformative impact of this award on organizations like 2024 winner Helping Paws, which trains and places service dogs with individuals in need.
Deb explains the award’s goal and how winners are selected: “We created this award to showcase nonprofits that think outside the box—it's about mining your diamonds, finding what you already have, and making it work for you.” She speaks to the importance of clear, compelling communication, sharing that organizations who excel in storytelling and impact often resonate most with judges.
2024 Award winner, HelpingPaws.org, Alyssa Golob, shares the journey of Helping Paws’ "More Dogs, More Impact" campaign, which aims to quadruple the number of service dogs placed annually. “Our waiting list for a service dog is two-and-a-half years. With this campaign, we’re aiming to reduce that significantly, allowing us to match more dogs to people who need them.” She reveals how they creatively involved donors in the campaign with a unique challenge that inspired significant community support.
Through this conversation, we learn that strategic fundraising, social media storytelling, and genuine engagement with community members are keys to success. The discussion amongst the trio also highlights the evolving role of social media in nonprofit storytelling, with past winners using digital platforms to effectively amplify their messages and impacts. Find out more about the award and the application process: EideBailly.com
Are monthly giving plans a stable, sustainable revenue source for nonprofits?
Explore the options and issues with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. These plans, often overlooked, are essential for building consistent support and cultivating a pipeline of engaged donors. Julia kicks off by noting, “I think this is the secret sauce to a lot of really successful organizations.” Monthly giving allows organizations to focus on donor engagement without the intense efforts required for one-time donations.
Tony elaborates on the evolution of giving methods, observing, “The core values and foundation of this work haven’t changed, but technology has transformed how we approach it.” From the early days of pledge cards to today’s seamless online options, technology has empowered even small organizations to implement effective monthly giving programs.
As the discussion progresses, they highlight the critical role of stewardship in maintaining donor relationships. Tony explains, “You tend to have as much as 85 to 90% retention with robust programs.” This high retention underscores the importance of making monthly donors feel valued and part of a community. Whether by offering project-based updates or mission-centered communication, nonprofits can maintain engagement and encourage future involvement, potentially elevating monthly givers to major contributors.
Both cohosts agree that supporting staff, board members, and volunteers in promoting these programs can further strengthen results. With creative incentive programs, nonprofits can foster a team-driven approach, making monthly giving a core part of fundraising strategy.
#MonthlyGiving #DonorEngagement #NonprofitSuccess
Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of Quam Taylor, discusses the nuances and challenges of nonprofit board "Give or Get" policies. Sherry challenges the common practice of requiring board members to either donate a set amount or "get" equivalent donations from their networks, arguing that this approach can hinder true relational fundraising and overall organizational growth. She begins with, “If my board member is going to give an hour or two outside of that monthly meeting, I actually want it to be things that are building that network and the relationship with people who have the ability to be a mid or major level donor.”
Show Host Julia Patrick and Sherry look deep into the unintended consequences of the give/get policy, like perpetuating a transactional mindset rather than fostering deep connections. Sherry explains, “We want every donor giving their best gift… that goes for board members too.” By creating policies that make it easier for board members to give their "best gift," boards can drive sustainable funding, while making board service more inclusive and meaningful. This lively and sometimes funny conversation emphasizes rethinking board contributions, embracing relational fundraising, and even "offering scholarship" seats to diversify and cultivate future leaders. Julia offers up, “This is a super cool way to get that next-gen leadership coming in.”
Key takeaways you’ll find:
1. Fundraising should prioritize relationships, not transactions.
2. Rethink "give/get" requirements to encourage board diversity.
3. Empower board members with relational, impactful ways to contribute.
The innovative Social Sector Hero Award celebrates organizations that are making measurable improvements in their communities through impact-driven initiatives. The Social Sector Hero Award offers over $20,000 in prizes to organizations that embody eight principles. Adam Luecking, CEO of ClearImpact.com, who has dedicated 18 years to supporting public sector and philanthropic organizations, shares details about the award and provides insights on the importance of measurement in driving meaningful change. "At the end of the day, we need to help people bring precision to their passion," he says, promoting the need for data-driven accountability in nonprofit work. Nominees don’t have to be clients of Clear Impact—they just need to demonstrate a commitment to improving lives. “We want to build champions who can articulate these concepts to others in their organization,” Adam says--highlighting the award's mission to foster leadership and measurable growth within the sector. Learn more about applying for the award at SocialSectorHero.com
Host Julia Patrick asks Adam to share how Clear Impact is revolutionizing the way organizations measure success. Through their work, Clear Impact supports nonprofits by offering practical tools like the Scorecard—a free tool that lets organizations track their progress in real time. This tool helps nonprofits align their efforts with measurable outcomes, ensuring that every step taken is purposeful and impactful. Adam comments, “The only way to bring precision to your passion is through measurement.”
Adam’s emphasis on marrying narrative with data is transformative for the sector, blending the emotional appeal of storytelling with the power of transparent, measurable results. “Transparency creates trust,” Adam goes on to explain as he advocates for nonprofits to openly share performance reports to gain trust from funders and community members alike.
#SocialSectorHero #ImpactMeasurement #Nonprofitawards
Exploring the nuances of what it takes to succeed as a nonprofit fundraiser, especially in an evolving sector that is increasingly professionalized. In this Fundraisers Friday episode, Julia Patrick and Tony Beall chat about the rewarding yet challenging world of professional fundraising. Julia sets the beginning tone with a meaningful reminder in light of today’s tumultuous times. . . . “We’re going to need professional fundraisers now more than ever.”
Tony shares that nonprofit work wasn’t always viewed as a career path; rather, “a lot of us just kind of stumbled into this work.” Now, nonprofit professionals can earn a solid wage and receive specialized education. Both hosts emphasize the importance of core competencies—like ethical integrity, relationship building, and data analysis—to excel in this field. Tony comments, “To be a successful fundraiser, you have to have a high level of integrity and just, you know, ethics beyond question.”
A key part of their conversation is the value of persistence in a role known for its high turnover. Julia points out that many fundraisers only stay in one job for an average of 18-19 months, yet Tony reassures aspiring fundraisers with a can-do spirit, saying, “I believe all things are possible when we communicate in a way that ensures all things are possible.”
These two don’t just provide advice; it’s a call to action for fundraisers to be adaptable, passionate, and resilient in an often-demanding role. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned pro, this discussion will reenergize your commitment to making a difference.
#NonprofitLife #FundraisingSuccess #ProfessionalFundraiser
A winning fundraising strategy requires nonprofits to align their mindset, clarify their message, and consistently apply methods that prioritize donor engagement and community impact. Fundraising expert Peter Heller joins co-hosts Julia Patrick and Sherry Quam Taylor, to explore the essential "Three M's for Fundraising Wins": Mindset, Message, and Method. Peter, CEO and Founder of Heller Fundraising Group, emphasizes the importance of mindset in fundraising, beginning with, "If you don’t think your nonprofit is worth it, then it’s time to pack up or get a new job." According to Peter, nonprofit teams often struggle with self-doubt and limiting beliefs that can dampen their fundraising potential. Sherry adds that, "Mindset isn't 80% of the battle—it’s everything."
The trio then explore the "Message" aspect. Peter advises nonprofits to focus on the positive future they aim to create for their community, rather than portraying themselves as the hero of the story. This strategy, he explains, fosters deeper donor engagement. He says, "Your nonprofit is simply the catalyst or vehicle for positive community change." Finally, the 3 discuss the "Method," where Peter advocates for a structured, year-long approach to fundraising. He stresses the importance of diverse fundraising methods, saying, "It’s not about just one big gala or campaign but engaging major donors consistently every month." This organized approach allows nonprofits to maximize their impact while avoiding common pitfalls, like over-relying on event planning instead of donor relationships.
Christine Sakdalan and Miguel Valentin of MVP (mvpoc.org) dive into the complexities of sustaining a nonprofit in a challenging funding environment. MVP’s mission to empower young leaders from underserved communities is met with enthusiasm and grounded insight from both leaders. Christine emphasizes the organization's goal: “If we could only help one person, it would all have been worth it.” For Miguel, it’s about sustaining momentum: “When you’re wishing you could do more, it’s important to step back and celebrate what’s been accomplished.”
Miguel and Christine describe strategies like diversifying revenue streams, engaging in creative fundraising, and, crucially, maintaining board and volunteer engagement. They stress that successful nonprofits need not just dedication but also clarity on mission, expectations, and resilience, a sentiment echoed in Christine’s reflection: “We need transparency and accountability. That’s the winning combination.
#NonprofitLeadership #YouthEmpowerment #SustainableImpact
The delicate and often overlooked subject of compensation for nonprofit fundraisers! With hosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. The Fundraiser’s Friday duo highlight the wide spectrum of pay scales in the sector, ranging from entry-level salaries of $40,000 to executive roles reaching $180,000, with Tony emphasizing the importance of transparency. He says, "We’re seeing more organizations list salary ranges in job postings, and that transparency saves everyone time." This transparency, he suggests, could aid nonprofits in attracting talent and cultivating a healthy work environment, especially as the labor market tightens.
The enlightening chat also digs into the benefits nonprofit organizations can offer to attract and retain talent, such as flexible work arrangements and reduced dress code expenses for remote employees. Julia reflects, “We have these nickel-and-dime expenses, like dry cleaning and transportation, that working from home can alleviate.” And Tony speaks about the sector's shift towards professionalism and equity: “If you want the best talent, you need to offer packages that meet people where they are in life.”
#NonprofitCompensation #FundraisersFriday #NonprofitTransparency
An emotional and thought-provoking episode with our guest, co-host, and friend, Wendy F. Adams. Wendy bravely shares her deeply personal story of gift legacies and the challenges of managing estates after significant family losses. Wendy, a seasoned nonprofit professional herself and now a consultant to nonprofit leaders, discusses the heart-wrenching reality of being both a fundraiser and someone navigating the death of loved ones--uncovering critical lessons about donor stewardship and the importance of recognizing consistent donors.
Wendy lost several family members in quick succession, including her mother, and was tasked with managing their estates. As someone who had dedicated her career to fundraising and nonprofit leadership, she found herself on the other side of the desk—grieving, making difficult phone calls, and uncovering truths about the ways organizations steward their donors. “By the time I got to the third call, I said, ‘OK, this is not someone who’s just young in the field and doesn’t know.’ We’ve got a breakdown,” Wendy recounted.
Her mother, a dedicated nurse and a longtime donor, had been supporting several nonprofits for over 15 years, often giving $60 a month to at least seven different organizations, adding up to tens of thousands of dollars. Despite her consistent generosity, when Wendy called to inform these nonprofits of her mother’s passing, she was met with polite condolences but no recognition of the impact her mother had made. “I was floored and amazed to actually do the math myself,” she shared, “but what floored me in not a good way was the response I received when I called...there was not a word to say thank you.”
Wendy’s very human experience highlights the profound need for nonprofits to do better in stewarding donors, especially those who give consistently over long periods. Her story reminds us of the importance of having these conversations early and often, ensuring that donors like her mother feel appreciated not only during their lifetime but beyond. As Wendy passionately stated, “We have to do better. I’m still in the sector, and I love it, but we need to rise to the occasion.”
We’re discovering a flexible and accessible fundraising training program, designed to empower fundraisers at any stage of their careers. Our host is joined by Pearl Hoeglund from the Fundraising Academy at National University. As a Director, Pearl shares with our host Julia Patrick, and you as a viewer, her passion for nurturing the next generation of fundraising leaders. She calls upon the importance of learning, collaboration, and long-term career sustainability, that help nonprofit professionals thrive in a field that requires both skill and heart.
The Fundraising Academy offers a certification pathway that emphasizes relationship-driven fundraising, focusing on building authentic connections with donors. Pearl shares her personal journey through the program, noting how it transformed her approach. After completing the certificate, she said, “I approached donors confidently with excitement. I knew how to build authentic relationships with them and align them with the cause that they care about.” This confidence and strategy are key elements of the Academy’s curriculum, which equips fundraisers with the skills to secure major gifts and sustain long-term relationships—crucial for avoiding burnout.
What makes the program particularly compelling is its flexibility. With self-paced, modular courses, participants can dive into specific areas such as stewardship or donor outreach, then move on to other topics. The program culminates in a capstone project where fundraisers create a customized development plan for their organization, with guidance from a mentor. Pearl points to the real-world application of this training: “You leave the capstone with a fundraising development plan that you can bring back to your organization that can actually be activated!”
The certification is also highly accessible. For $2,500, participants get 125 hours of training, making it an affordable option for both individuals and organizations. Additionally, the program is being submitted for CFRE credits, further solidifying its value for professional development.
How to handle unhappy donors and turn their dissatisfaction into renewed support, with Fundraisers Friday co-hosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. Whether it's over-solicitation, poor communication, or shifting priorities, understanding why donors frown and how to respond is crucial for every nonprofit.
Tony Beall shares key insights on identifying and addressing donor concerns, emphasizing, “We hope to develop that kind of relationship where a donor can call, text, or even send a carrier pigeon to let us know when they're not happy.” Julia Patrick reflects on the importance of feedback, admitting, “I don’t think I’ve ever been queried or asked for feedback as a donor. It’s shocking when you think about it.”
Watch as as we explore how nonprofits can proactively prevent donor dissatisfaction and maintain strong, transparent relationships.
How to handle unhappy donors and turn their dissatisfaction into renewed support, with Fundraisers Friday co-hosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. Whether it's over-solicitation, poor communication, or shifting priorities, understanding why donors frown and how to respond is crucial for every nonprofit.
Tony Beall shares key insights on identifying and addressing donor concerns, emphasizing, “We hope to develop that kind of relationship where a donor can call, text, or even send a carrier pigeon to let us know when they're not happy.” Julia Patrick reflects on the importance of feedback, admitting, “I don’t think I’ve ever been queried or asked for feedback as a donor. It’s shocking when you think about it.”
Watch as as we explore how nonprofits can proactively prevent donor dissatisfaction and maintain strong, transparent relationships.
Unlock the powerful connection between volunteers and donors. James Goalder, Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, makes a compelling case: Volunteers and donors aren’t separate groups—they’re driven by the same passion to make a difference, and nonprofits should engage them accordingly.
“The reason people volunteer and the reason they donate are often pretty similar... If you’re not appealing to them for both, you’re missing out on a way to really cement that relationship,” James begins. This shift in mindset could be a game-changer, breaking down traditional silos and unlocking new opportunities for deeper engagement and support.
James also tackles the sector’s current challenges head-on. With donor and volunteer numbers on the decline since the pandemic, nonprofits are increasingly leaning on major donors to keep things afloat. But he warns, “If the donor universe has dropped but the dollars have stayed relatively the same, that means we’re going back to the same major donors again and again... and eventually, they’re going to get tired.” This ‘donor fatigue’ threatens sustainability unless nonprofits start thinking differently—by engaging volunteers as donors and showing how both time and money make an impact.
The key? Storytelling. James details how effective communication, filled with emotional narratives and impact-driven stories, keeps supporters inspired. When volunteers see the value of their time and donors understand how every dollar makes a difference, the relationship deepens. “Whether they stuff envelopes or write a check, both contributions matter,” he offers.
This sparkling conversation will fire up nonprofits to rethink their engagement strategies. It’s not just about separating donors and volunteers—it’s about recognizing the overlap, nurturing those connections, and keeping supporters engaged with stories that resonate. With fresh ideas and actionable advice, you’ll feel energized and ready to bring volunteers and donors together to build something lasting and impactful.
The right board involvement can demystify fundraising, turning what might seem like a daunting task into a more manageable and impactful team effort. From this lively session, expect to learn a lot about the sometimes complicated, yet critical, role of engaging nonprofit boards in fundraising, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. This discussion revolves around the vital understanding that fundraising is a "team sport," as Tony aptly puts it. Together, they focus on the theme that board members play a significant role in an organization's ability to secure and sustain funds, but often, there's confusion about what fundraising truly is—and what it’s not.
Julia strikes the early tone by sharing her personal reflections on her decades-long involvement in community fundraising and board service, describing how much she could have done differently with the right knowledge. She says, "I looked at the different decades of my life and what I could have done better, and what I did well.", reflecting the importance of continuous learning for board members to become more effective in their roles.
Tony builds on this as they go on, explaining that while many board members feel a fear of fundraising, they can still significantly contribute by playing roles that don’t involve the daunting task of asking for money. He introduces four key roles board members can adopt: the Prospector, the Cultivator, the Solicitor, and the Steward. "You can support your organization from the launching pad to landing," Tony says, which shows the flexibility in how board members can engage in the fundraising process.
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