![Fundraising Courses and Training](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/fundraising-courses.png)
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.
![Overcoming Nonprofit Donor's Objections Overcoming Nonprofit Donor's Objections](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/4v83zazihmq/167368818.jpg)
This learning segment will give you empowering insights into how to overcome nonprofit donor’s objections to donating by fostering more genuine relationships, transparency, and finding opportunities for mutual understanding.
Co-hosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall begin with emphasizing the importance of addressing the pain points of fundraisers. Tony highlights the significance of viewing objections as opportunities, setting a positive tone for the conversation.
Tony shares insights from his professional development experience at the Museum of Tolerance, where he learned the importance of reframing information and taking a moment before responding. Julia appreciates this approach, noting that it helps shift the mindset from stress to opportunity. Tony talks about the “necessity of intentionality” in understanding and responding to objections, emphasizing how important authenticity and transparency is in donor interactions.
A big part of the presentation revolves around the difference between objections and concerns. Tony explains that objections often stem from underlying concerns, and the key is in how these are received and addressed. He stresses the importance of not always having an immediate answer but rather acknowledging the question and promising to follow up. This approach, he notes, maintains the trust built with the nonprofit donor and really emphasizes the value of listening actively.
Julia reflects on her experiences and the pressure to have all the answers, expressing relief at Tony's advice to embrace authenticity and transparency. Tony reassures her that “not knowing all the answers does not equate to failure”, as the relationship and process are the things that matter.
The two also touch on the nuances of navigating sensitive topics, especially in politically or socially charged environments, with Tony suggesting staying away from initiating controversial topics unless the donor brings them up, focusing rather on shared values you might have and the mission of the organization. This, he suggests, helps maintain a positive and productive dialogue.
Tony's key quote encapsulates the session's theme: "You don't always have to have the answer. Lean into authenticity and transparency."
![Development Directors; 19 Months and Gone! Development Directors; 19 Months and Gone!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/E2vrytndeza/4101789111.jpg)
The pressing issue within the nonprofit sector: why Development Directors often leave their positions after an average of just 19 months. The conversation, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall, is both eye opening and spirited, deliberating about the various factors contributing to this high turnover rate and offering practical solutions to improve retention.
Tony Beall, known for his expertise and passion in nonprofit consultancy, shares that one of the main reasons for this rapid turnover is the lack of adequate resources and support provided to Development Directors. He emphasizes that organizations often bring in fundraising professionals without equipping them with the necessary tools, such as up-to-date technology and sufficient budgets for travel and networking. This lack of support can lead to frustration and burnout, pushing talented individuals to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Julia echoes Tony's concerns and highlights an often-overlooked aspect: the time it takes for a new employee to fully integrate into a role. She recalls an HR expert's insight that it typically takes about 12 months for someone to acclimate to a new job, learning the organization's culture, processes, and expectations. If Development Directors are leaving shortly after this period, it means they barely have enough time to make a significant impact before moving on, which can be detrimental to the organization's stability and growth.
![Creating Nonprofit 'Go To' Volunteers! Creating Nonprofit 'Go To' Volunteers!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Brt7cqkszba/1967493630.jpg)
The importance of volunteers in your nonprofit’s ecosystem with specific actionable insights for organizations to better manage and nurture their volunteers. An informative chat with Jared Throneberry from Bloomerang. By valuing volunteers' contributions and strategically engaging them, nonprofits can build a loyal and motivated volunteer base that is crucial for their success.
Jared shares his unique journey from an IT and business analyst background to his current role at Bloomerang, and shares his insights into volunteer management highlighting the need for strategic engagement and thoughtful placement of volunteers.
One key Jared emphasizes is the importance of matching the right volunteer with the right task. He illustrates this with an example from his experience: "If a volunteer doesn't feel like they're being useful or helpful in a particular area, it's probably because that's the thing they don't need to be doing. You need to find the other person who enjoys that, that will enjoy and appreciate it." This approach ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose among volunteers, plus it encourages them to return and remain engaged.
With host Julia Patrick, the two dig into the often-overlooked aspect of treating volunteers with the same respect and appreciation as donors. Jared notes, "Thank you for donating your time and your energy. You're helping to support our mission." This mindset shift from seeing volunteers as free labor to recognizing them as integral parts of the mission is vital for building long-term relationships and encouraging repeat volunteerism.
Continuing, Jared shares practical strategies for engaging volunteers, such as providing impactful feedback and showing appreciation through follow-up communication. He recounts a memorable volunteering experience with a customer who provided shower systems for homeless populations. The experience was enriched by a pre-volunteering briefing that detailed the mission and impact of the work, followed by hands-on, gritty tasks like cleaning showers. Despite the nature of the work, the thorough orientation and clear communication of the mission made it a fulfilling experience for Jared and his colleagues.
Julia highlights the parallel between customer retention in the business world and volunteer retention in nonprofits. Just as restaurants thrive on repeat customers, nonprofits must cultivate long-term relationships with volunteers. Jared suggested simple yet effective practices like sending personalized follow-up surveys and sharing the tangible impacts of volunteer efforts to keep the engagement strong. If your nonprofit finds volunteer support and management challenging, this is a great primer for you!!!
![Driving Corporate Responsibility (#IndyTechGives) Driving Corporate Responsibility (#IndyTechGives)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Qak7cj3tffg/1750723688.jpg)
The innovative concept of peer-to-peer fundraising intertwined with corporate social responsibility (CSR), showcasing how businesses can drive meaningful impact in their communities, with Steve Lausch, the Director of Product Marketing at One Cause and Managing Director of #IndyTechGives.
Steve starts by taking us back to 2019, the inception year of Indy Tech Gives, a pioneering initiative born from a simple yet profound question: "What might happen if we were to give our peer-to-peer fundraising software away to local Indiana businesses at no cost?" This question led to the creation of a five-week social giving program that unites Indianapolis’s tech community to support various nonprofits.
One of the key highlights of this fun conversation, with host Julia Patrick, is the seamless integration of competitive and community giving. Steve elaborates, "We talk a lot about community giving and competitive giving, and they are two beautiful sides of the same coin." This dual approach has spurred a vibrant engagement among employees and tech companies, driving significant fundraising outcomes. The competitive spirit is evident as teams and individuals participate in unique fundraising activities, from shaving heads to hosting yoga sessions in public parks, all to rally support for their chosen nonprofits.
The pandemic's onset in 2020 posed a significant challenge, but it also brought to light the adaptability and resilience of the initiative. As Steve recalls, "People don't know where north is on the compass, and we need to rethink this." Despite initial uncertainties, the program not only continued but thrived, proving the power of digital engagement in times of crisis.
Julia and Steve dig into the benefits corporations reap from participating in such initiatives. The boost in employee morale, the enhancement of CSR efforts, and the alignment of corporate values with community impact are profound. Steve emphasizes the importance of engaging employees early in the process, allowing them to voice their preferences and rally around causes they genuinely care about.
As the two wrap up, Steve shares the impressive milestones achieved by Indy Tech Gives. Over six years, the initiative has seen participation from 30 businesses and raised over $325,000, impacting numerous central Indiana nonprofits. This success story is a testament to the potential of combining technology with philanthropy, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community.
![Investigating The Nonprofits Of Professional Athletes Investigating The Nonprofits Of Professional Athletes](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Hpwf0w6cl0/711342406.jpg)
Award-winning sports reporter Jason Wolf sheds light on the intricate and often misunderstood world of professional athletes and their nonprofit organizations. Wolf, known for his investigative prowess with the Arizona Republic and the USA TODAY Network, describes his findings in the mismanagement and inefficiencies that plague many athlete-founded charities, despite the athletes' noble intentions.
Wolf's journey into this niche field began serendipitously while covering star NFL player Delaney Walker. He recalls, “I had known enough to know that 990 is that the federal tax returns were public records and that I could get my hands on them. But once I printed them out, I had no idea what I was looking for.”, which marked the start of his deep look into the financial and operational workings of nonprofits, culminating in a groundbreaking series of reports.
His investigation, notably the “Mismanagement of the Year” project, scrutinized the nonprofits founded by Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award winners. This prestigious award, given annually since 1970, recognizes NFL players for their philanthropy and community service. Wolf explains, “My investigation into the efficiency of the nonprofits founded by these esteemed men reveals that many of them are far more inefficient than even the athletes themselves realize.”
The investigation uncovered alarming trends, such as significant portions of donated funds being consumed by administrative costs rather than directly supporting charitable causes. Wolf shared a startling example: “My investigation in Buffalo showed that the for-profit nonprofit management company that ran Andy Dalton's nonprofit was contractually entitled to... a quarter of every dollar donated. So when Bills fans donated it was $442,000 to Andy Dalton's nonprofit. This for-profit company took 100 grand off the top.”
The primary issue, according to Wolf, is the involvement of marketers rather than nonprofit professionals in managing these charities. This is resulting in poor financial oversight and operational inefficiencies. Wolf’s findings have garnered numerous accolades and have sparked meaningful changes within the sports philanthropy landscape.
One of the most impactful outcomes of his work is the formation of Sport for Impact, co-founded by former NFL star Anquan Boldin. This organization aims to educate players and their families about responsible sports philanthropy. Wolf proudly comments, “The most wonderful thing that has come out of this work has been Anquan Boldin co-founding Sport for Impact... the Jacksonville Jaguars are the first NFL team to provide them with a grant.”
Because of his thorough investigations and dedication to uncovering the truth, Jason Wolf has illuminated the need for greater transparency and efficiency in athlete-run nonprofits. His work continues to inspire change, urging athletes to adopt best practices and ensure that their charitable endeavors truly benefit those in need.
![Is 'Selling' A Dirty Word In The Nonprofit Sector? Is 'Selling' A Dirty Word In The Nonprofit Sector?](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Oofd2aymcq0/553859700.jpg)
The nuanced topic of "selling" within the nonprofit sector, shedding light on common misconceptions, presented by co-hosts Tony Beall and Julia Patrick.
Julia kicks off the show by introducing the new Fundraisers Friday initiative. "We think that this concept, this epic task that fundraisers have, deserves its own day," she declares, whilst Tony Beall, renowned for his expertise in the nonprofit world, adds a touch of humor and big picture clarity to the conversation.
The focus of this episode revolves around the idea of "cause selling," a term Tony introduced to Julia years ago. "In fact, we are all selling and we are all selling all the time," Tony explains, emphasizing that in the nonprofit context, selling involves promoting solutions, ideas, and community needs to passionate supporters. This approach, he argues, is integral to successful fundraising. Julia concurs, sharing her personal experience. "If I had been educated on this process when I was a young community leader... I would have raised millions more for my community," she admits.
Tony elaborates on the cause selling curriculum from the Fundraising Academy at National University, noting its efficacy. "We had folks that would come out of that program... raising a lot more money for their organization," he states, which ties into the importance of professional development in enhancing fundraising outcomes.
The conversation also looks at the stigma associated with the term "selling" in the nonprofit world. "No one wants to feel like they're working in transaction mode," Tony acknowledges. However, he stresses that many aspects of fundraising, from OKRs to KPIs, inherently align with sales principles, advocating for a shift in perception.
Julia and Tony agree on the necessity of transparency and collaboration within nonprofit organizations. "Selling is a team sport," Tony adds, advocating for inclusive involvement in fundraising efforts. Julia supports his view, and points to the role of trust and authentic communication in fostering successful donor relationships.
This dynamic exchange sets the tone for future Fundraisers Friday episodes, dedicated to empowering fundraisers and advancing the nonprofit sector's mission.
With engaging discussions and expert advice, Fundraisers Friday aims to demystify fundraising and equip nonprofit professionals with the tools and confidence to excel in their roles.
![Impacts of Bad Donor Behaviors Impacts of Bad Donor Behaviors](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Eew1do0pcn4/823109752.jpg)
A compelling look into the sensitive topic of inappropriate behaviors exhibited by donors towards nonprofit organizations. Angela Barnes from Carter Global and Jack Alotto from Fundraising Academy explore the deep issues and emerging solutions within the nonprofit sector.
Angela vividly articulates the longstanding issue, noting that problematic donor behaviors, though historically discussed only behind closed doors, have begun to garner public attention. She describes the critical feedback they have received and the substantial progress being made in addressing these concerns. "It's a subject we're talking about, but it's gone on for decades within the sector," Angela says, pointing to the persistent nature of the problem.
Jack adds historical context, referencing a study by AFP on sexual harassment that included not only donors but also board members and staff. This info sparked deeper considerations about the underlying causes of such behaviors. "It got me thinking about what's going on here and what we are maybe doing that is part of the cause," as Jack describes his concern and approach to the issue.
A significant focus of this informative conversation is the proposal of a "donor code of ethics" as a structured response to these challenges. This initiative aims to establish clear expectations and boundaries between nonprofits and their donors, ensuring respectful and ethical interactions. Angela and Jack discuss the necessity of organizational documents that outline these boundaries and how they should be communicated through this donor code.
As the conversation continues, it becomes clear that the nonprofit sector's reliance on donors sometimes complicates the response to inappropriate behaviors, with organizational leaders often hesitating to confront or alienate contributors. Jack and Angela argue for a balance between securing resources and maintaining ethical standards, pointing to the importance of respecting and protecting staff and organizational values over accepting donations.
Angela and Jack provide a roadmap for nonprofits to empower themselves and redefine the dynamics with their donors, one that emphasizes ethics, respect, and mutual values.
![Nonprofit's Questions This Week! Nonprofit's Questions This Week!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Tkzrxrf5djo/2866513133.jpg)
Practical tips for nonprofits on addressing outdated information, integrating board members into fundraising, managing remote teams, and the importance of board succession planning, with the helpful insights from Muhi Khwaja, CFRE and trainer from Fundraising Academy.
--Addressing Outdated Information in Presentations--
A nonprofit professional asks how to manage a situation where a CEO presented outdated and incorrect data. Muhi begins his response by emphasizing the importance of having updated talking points and literature. He suggests that marketing departments should create and regularly update a pitch deck with current statistics. Muhi also advises providing updated information electronically to correct any mistakes without embarrassing the CEO.
--Integrating Board Members in Fundraising--
Another question comes from a CEO who wants to involve a passionate board member in fundraising, despite resistance from the development department. Muhi stresses that board members are integral to fundraising and should not be seen as outsiders. He advocates for development teams to work closely with CEOs to engage board members in fundraising, whether through thank-you calls, grant meetings, or personal donor visits. This integration can be managed effectively by having a development committee that includes board members.
--Managing a Work-From-Anywhere Team--
Pat from Flagstaff, AZ, sought advice on managing a team spread across different time zones. Muhi shares his experience with a work-from-anywhere (WFA) structure, emphasizing the importance of scheduled meetings, time management tools like Calendly, and communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Slack. He highlights the flexibility and productivity benefits of WFA, saying that organizations should find a cadence that works for them and allow their teams to balance work and personal lives effectively.
--Importance of Board Chair-Elect Positions---
Robert from Omaha, NE, asked about the necessity of having a board chair-elect. Muhi supports the idea, noting that having an elect position helps with continuity and ensures smooth transitions. He recommends updating bylaws to reflect this policy and having job descriptions to distinguish between the roles of the current chair and the chair-elect. This approach helps in maintaining organizational knowledge and stability.
--Professional Development and CFRE Training--
Muhi and Julia discuss a recent initiative where they launched the first Muslim CFRE study group, in partnership with CFRE and AFP Global. This initiative aims to provide professional development opportunities for Muslim fundraisers, with plans to continue this annually.
![Demystify Your Planned Giving (Fundraising Strategy) Demystify Your Planned Giving (Fundraising Strategy)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Q5p7qb88cqk/587806407.jpg)
conversation about simplifying the often-misunderstood world of Planned Giving for nonprofits, with Tony Martignetti, a former attorney turned planned giving consultant. With his candid charm, Tony reveals his journey from despising his attorney gig to embracing the predictability and impact of planned giving, belaying a clear message that planned giving is not as complex as it seems.
Tony begins by explaining, “Planned giving fundraising does not change that much. It would take a major overhaul of the estate tax law for planned giving to change significantly, and there hasn't been one of those in at least two decades.” This insight into the stability of planned giving will resonate with you if you’re looking for long-term fundraising strategies.
At the heart of the discussion is the simplicity of starting a planned giving program. Tony emphasizes the most common and simplest form of planned giving: bequests. “Launching the dealing with the most basic, simplest, most common planned gift by far, just feels that's the place to launch your planned giving,” he states. This straightforward approach demystifies the process, making it accessible even to nonprofits just starting with planned giving.
Tony then shares an inspiring statistic that underscores the profound impact of planned giving on donor relationships: “75% of people who leave a gift in their will, that will increase their other giving to your nonprofit.” This reveals how deepening donor engagement through planned gifts can enhance overall giving, a testament to the emotional and financial bonds that planned giving can forge between donors and nonprofits.
Throughout the show, cohosted by Julia Patrick and Sherry Quam Taylor, Tony advocates for those making the ‘Asks’ to focus on life and sustainability rather than the morose topic of death, which many mistakenly associate with planned giving. His approach is life-affirming, emphasizing the ongoing impact of donor contributions well into the future. This perspective not only enriches the dialogue around planned giving but also aligns it closely with the core missions of nonprofits—sustaining and nurturing community life through enduring support.
The episode wraps with a clear takeaway: start simple, think long-term, and engage deeply with your donors. Tony’s closing comments echo a call to action for nonprofits to embrace planned giving not as a daunting venture but as a natural extension of their existing donor relationships. Learn more at TonyMartignetti.com
![Nonprofit's Questions Answered! Nonprofit's Questions Answered!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Awj177w1kam/3875162525.jpg)
Engaging perspectives on the nuances of nonprofit board structures and fundraising strategies, answering nonprofit’s questions and offering practical advice for nonprofit organizations. Questions covered; Establishing a young professionals board | Joint fundraising campaigns | Crafting appeals from NPO CEO’s | How to join the professional speaking circuit for nonprofit experts. Hosted by Tony Beall with guest expert Jack Alotto from Fundraising Academy.
![The Fundraiser's Self-care Approach The Fundraiser's Self-care Approach](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/1v-pwi1hr14/3603813500.jpg)
Insights on nonprofit fundraising staff management and the transformative power of technology in fundraising. Our guest explains the importance for fundraisers to pursue work-life balance as an "ebb and flow" rather than a strict equilibrium, and emphasizing the importance of personal well-being alongside professional effectiveness, to meet the challenges in building a sustainable and humane fundraising environment.
In this lively exchange, hosted by Wendy Adams and Julia Patrick, Micah James, a Senior Platform Coach at Bloomerang, shares a look at what truly resonates with those involved in nonprofit management and fundraising.
Micah and the team at Bloomerang have been instrumental in helping organizations transition from traditional methods like Excel and Google Sheets to more sophisticated customer relationship management (CRM) tools offered by Bloomerang. She delightfully notes the "aha moments" experienced by clients when they realize the efficiencies gained through automation. Micah explains, "One of my favorite moments is when clients realize they don’t have to do things manually anymore. It’s about seeing those fundraising practices come to life, and technology come alongside fundraising."
The chat steps into the crucial topic of work-life balance within the nonprofit sector. Micah introduces a refreshing perspective on the concept of balance, emphasizing it as more of an "ebb and flow" rather than a strict equilibrium. She believes that it's unrealistic to expect a 50/50 balance daily and suggests that a more fluid understanding is needed to maintain both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.
She continues, stressing the value of sustaining not just financial resources but also the well-being of those who lead nonprofits. She acknowledged how the shift to digital platforms can be overwhelming for some but also opens new paths for operational efficiency and donor engagement.
Micah shared her approach to management, focusing on the human aspects of her team members before business metrics. This, she argues, is essential to create a supportive work environment and improve staff retention, which is crucial given the typically high turnover in the sector.
Micah ends with a statement on the intersection of sustainable fundraising and employee well-being, pointing to the need for organizations to recognize the multifaceted challenges their staff face and to cultivate an environment that supports long-term engagement and success.
Micah’s words are a strong reminder of the human element in the too often mechanically perceived field of fundraising, echoing a need for empathy, understanding, and adaptability as nonprofit’s pursue their philanthropic goals.
![Fundraising And Nonprofit's Self-esteem Fundraising And Nonprofit's Self-esteem](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/U6sue3vwyfy/1092014233.jpg)
A compelling discussion into the intriguing territory of self-esteem within nonprofit organizations, with Peter Heller, CEO of Heller Fundraising Group. Drawing on his extensive experience in fundraising consultancy, Peter articulates how intrinsic self-esteem is to a nonprofit organization's ability to effectively raise funds and make an impact.
Peter starts by emphasizing the importance of an "abundance mindset" to create and sustain prosperity within nonprofits and the communities they serve. He says, "We believe it's really important to try to address [challenges] from an abundance mindset," indicating how this philosophy influenced the very logo of his company—a symbol of infinite money flowing from an infinity sign, representing endless possibilities and financial sustainability.
The key insight from Peter revolves around the concept of nonprofit self-esteem, which he believes is often overlooked yet vital for organizational success. He shares, "Underneath why a particular organization can or can't raise the money it needs... somewhere is self-esteem of your organization—where do you think you are in the spectrum of things. Do you matter?" This notion reflects his belief in the foundational role self-esteem plays not just in personal realms but in organizational contexts as well.
He also shares compelling anecdotes demonstrating how organizations diminish their own value by comparing themselves unfavorably to larger, more well-known entities. He powerfully advised one such group by stating, "Look at your database and your annual report. You actually do raise money, and you people around the table are giving money, so it's not true that nobody's going to support you because you actually already are."
Continuing, he touches upon the broader implications of self-esteem during crises like COVID-19 and 9/11, suggesting that such periods should catalyze introspection and reaffirmation of an organization's essential role in humanity's future. He proposes that every individual within a nonprofit should be able to assert, "This nonprofit is crucial to the future of humanity," as a testament to its significance.
You will find Peter’s insights not only highlight the nuanced challenges faced by nonprofits but also pertain to the transformative potential of fostering strong internal self-esteem. This thoughtful conversation, with host Julia Patrick, serves as a critical reminder of the dynamic interplay between self-perception and organizational efficacy in the nonprofit sector.
![Answering Nonprofit's Questions! Answering Nonprofit's Questions!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/Ysn_qt94yww/3686966535.jpg)
In response to questions from nonprofits across the country, from Fundraising Academy, LaShonda Williams CFRE, provides nuanced insights into managing nonprofit boards, aligning donor management strategies with organizational goals, and some best practices toward the involvement of high-level executives in fundraising efforts. Her wise responses offer savvy guidance on maintaining integrity and strategic focus for those involved in nonprofit management.
Addressing a query from Colorado Springs about the appropriateness of personal questions in a board diversity questionnaire, LaShonda emphasizes the value of aligning these types of inquiries with the organization's mission and goals. She suggests that discomfort with the questions should prompt a deeper discussion about the true meaning and necessity of diversity within the board.
LaShonda, with the help of host Tony Beall, respond to a viewer from Omaha, who was concerned about managing a donor portfolio that didn't feel like the right fit for her. LaShonda advises involving potentially more suitable colleagues in meetings to better assess and cultivate relationships, thereby emphasizing the core role of relationship-building in fundraising. She keys in on the importance of collaborative efforts which can help the management of donor relationships too.
LaShonda and Tony respond to an interesting question about involving CEOs in donor meetings, pointing out the need to strategically use the CEO's time, especially concerning large gifts. LaShonda goes on to propose setting thresholds for CEO involvement based on the organization’s definition of major and principal gifts and suggests that alternative representatives like board members could also effectively engage major donors.
You’ll get alot out of this rapid-fire session addressing worries and issues nonprofits are experiencing.
![Connecting To Donors With Your Voice (Removing voice masks) Connecting To Donors With Your Voice (Removing voice masks)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/J1_bwsj94zw/1383839567.jpg)
Voice coach Tracy Goodwin explores the critical role of voice in nonprofit communication. She introduces the concept of "voice masks"—invisible barriers we create with our voice due to insecurities—and discusses how these affect authenticity and connection. Tracy shares her unique journey into voice coaching and offers practical advice for using one's true voice to enhance engagement and impact in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing that the voice is a powerful tool for genuine connection.
Tracy 's path to becoming a voice coach was both unconventional and compelling. Despite growing up in a household where children were seen and not heard, her natural inclination and skill in vocal expression led her into acting and directing. It was here that she discovered her gift for coaching voices, describing her entry into the field as "kicking and screaming" due to her familial conditioning. This background uniquely positions her to understand the unspoken nuances of voice and how they can be pivotal in representing or misrepresenting one's true self.
You’ll discover one of Tracy’s key insights during the show is the idea of "voice masks," a concept she describes with clarity and passion: "Voice masks are like Halloween masks. They are meant to hide our identity but they're invisible. They're just an armor of sound that we pick up and put on in certain circumstances." This analogy strikingly captures how individuals often modify their voice in professional settings or due to insecurities, impacting authentic communication.
Tracy goes on to passionately argue that these masks and altered vocal expressions often prevent genuine connections. She illustrates this with an example of a man who altered his voice to prove his worth, inadvertently creating barriers in his business relationships. This invisible armor, she explained, can cost us dearly in terms of connection and authenticity.
She also introduces you to the concept of "voice stories," the subconscious scripts that dictate our vocal expressions from a young age, influenced by our environments and experiences. Tracy’s approach is to unearth these stories, helping individuals reconnect with their true vocal identity and thereby enhance their communicative impact.
This revealing discussion is not just theoretical; it is full of practical implications, especially for the nonprofit sector, where communication plays a crucial role in fundraising and community engagement. You’ll find Tracy’s advice clear and actionable, nudging you to embrace your own authentic voices rather than conform to perceived expectations.
![Questions Nonprofit's Asked! Questions Nonprofit's Asked!](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/7jtljo-l0fe/2439049502.jpg)
In this lively edition of "Ask and Answer Friday", nonprofit experts Meico Marquette Whitlock and Muhi Khwaja, bring forward their insightful answers to questions about nonprofit management and operating strategies. Topics covered include;
Marcus from Minneapolis opens the dialogue by asking for strategies to encourage a program officer from a large funder to visit their campus, aiming to forge a stronger relationship. The response focuses on ways to enhance engagement with the funder, suggesting that understanding the funder’s hesitations and exploring various methods of showcasing the campus, including virtual tours, could be effective.
Maya from Dallas questioned the effectiveness of traditional snail mail campaigns versus digital approaches for their next holiday season fundraising efforts. The hosts debate the merits of each method, with suggestions to blend digital and physical outreach methods effectively to maximize donor engagement and response rates.
Shania from Oklahoma City brought up concerns about the relevance of continuing an "Employee of the Month" program in a now predominantly work-from-home environment. The conversation veered towards the value of maintaining recognition and morale in remote settings, suggesting steps to personalize acknowledgments and maintaining the essence of appreciation regardless of the medium.
Ramon from Miami seeks advice on how nonprofit boards could advocate for children's mental health without jeopardizing their 501C3 status. The hosts elaborate on the importance of educating rather than lobbying state legislators, stressing the importance of forming relationships and utilizing educational outreach as a primary tool for advocacy.
An anonymous question from Oakland describes a sensitive issue regarding a CEO's request for employees to donate to their nonprofit to show 100% employee participation. The hosts debate the ethical considerations and practical implications of such requests, emphasizing the need to balance organizational goals with respect for individual financial circumstances.