Developing Nonprofit Professionals (Modern Leadership Style)
The role of leadership development in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing the need for leaders to be adaptable, self-aware, and mission-focused to effectively guide their organizations through challenging times, shared in a compelling dialogue with two notable experts in nonprofit leadership development, John Tiso, Director of Client Services at JMT Consulting, and Dr. John Davidoff, founder and Chief Mission Officer of Davidoff Mission-Driven Business Strategy. This dynamic interview explores nonprofit leadership, and the importance of fostering a mission-driven culture and continuous leadership development.
John Tiso shared insights into how JMT Consulting supports nonprofits with comprehensive back-office solutions, highlighting their commitment to enhancing leadership skills within these organizations. Reflecting on his personal growth, he shares, “Leadership started off in the classic perspective of it being about title and role, but meeting Dr. John challenged my assumptions and nurtured my development for over six years.”
Dr. John Davidoff describes his firm’s role in helping nonprofits become genuinely mission-driven by integrating continuous leadership development and a drama-free, high-functioning culture into their strategic planning. Dr. Davidoff offers, “Authentic mission-driven organizations value continuous learning, from the CEO to the executive director, throughout the organization.”
The conversation also explores the idea that effective leadership transcends specific sectors, such as arts and culture or human services. Tiso argues that leadership effectiveness is less about hard skills and more about personal traits that enable leaders to succeed in various roles. Dr. Davidoff supports this by stressing the importance of self-awareness and cultural understanding in leadership, explaining, “Until we even have that exchange, we have two different cultures. We have my culture . . . . . . . . .
Nonprofit’s Transforming Communities (WOW Hall)
The historic venue, Wow Hall, a cherished cultural anchor in Eugene, Oregon, stands as a testament to community resilience and collaboration. Executive Director of the nonprofit, Deb Maher, shared their story, which embodies a vision-driven approach, emphasizing the power of positivity and collective action in transforming communities.
Wow Hall, originally established in 1932 as a fraternity for woodworkers, faced near-demolition in 1975. However, a swift community effort saved the building, transforming it into a nonprofit performing arts center. Deb takes us through Wow Hall’s rich history, emphasizing its evolution into a vibrant hub for cultural expression and community engagement.
Central to Wow Hall’s success is its unique membership-driven model. Deb points to the significance of community ownership, where members elect the board, fostering a sense of belonging and accountability. With over 600 volunteers, Wow Hall thrives on collective passion, offering diverse programs and events to enrich the community.
Deb Maher’s leadership philosophy centers on ‘appreciative inquiry’, a strength-based model that ignites creativity and collaboration. She describes it as, “What are our strengths? The compelling vision is based on our passion. What do we love? What do we care about? And we create where we want to go and we call it forth in present tense we are.” By focusing on shared passion and envisioning a compelling future, Wow Hall cultivates a culture of possibility and abundance.
Deb adds, “You create change by creating the new. You carve out a place to create the new and have success. You create with the new, and in doing that, you do two things. You create the new while . . . . . . . . .
Getting Nonprofit Accounting And Development Teams Working Together
Navigating the relationship between nonprofit accounting and development departments. With a focus on collaboration and understanding, how these two essential facets of nonprofit organizations can work harmoniously for success, with our guest, Patricia Withington, Director at Your Part Time Controller (YPTC.com).
Patricia emphasizes the necessity for alignment between the accounting and development departments, debunking some common misconceptions and highlighting the symbiotic nature of their roles. “I think both sides actually complement each other,” Patricia explains, “When you think about it, you know you have the perspective of the left brain, right brain and your right brain is you’re creative, you’re spontaneous, you’re emotional. That’s your Rd. You need them.”
Patricia shares actionable strategies for bridging the gap between accounting and development, such as implementing standing meetings, fostering a culture of shared knowledge, and leveraging external resources like grant opportunities and training programs.
She goes on to address the challenge of resource allocation for smaller nonprofits, offering guidance on when to consider outsourcing financial tasks and the optimal timing for bringing in external support.
Throughout the discussion, Patricia reminds us of the key significance of financial stability and transparency in attracting funders and sustaining nonprofit operations. “It’s such a collaborative effort… Everyone understands the overall mission of the organization,” Patricia adds, “You just bring it back home, bring it to why you’re there and all that other junk, it goes away.”
By aligning financial management with organizational objectives and involving both accounting and development teams in the process, nonprofits can enhance their effectiveness and achieve their mission-driven goals. Watch and learn more!!
Understanding Major Donors (How much can they give?)
Groundbreaking insights behind understanding major nonprofit donors, with a donor research tool that determines how much a donor might give. Donor Abacus operationalizes donor research, providing an objective, bias-free approach to determining the ideal donation amount for major gifts. By analyzing key data points and leveraging subscriber insights, Donor Abacus boasts predictive accuracy within 5% of actual pledges, empowering fundraisers to confidently navigate gift conversations and assess pipeline value. We learn about it all from fundraising expert Larry Ruff.
“We all know you can collect all this information and you never have it all, and then you have to figure out, OK, what are we going to ask this couple for? How much? Well, Abacus, in 21 questions, is the easy online way to get to those numbers…” says Larry. It streamlines the donation solicitation process.
Digging deeper, Larry dismantles the pervasive myth of gut instincts in fundraising, highlighting the negative impact of subjective biases on gift conversations. Through extensive research and case studies, he points to the critical need for objective valuation tools that will arm fundraisers with data-driven insights to navigate donor interactions with more confidence and professionalism.
With host Julia Patrick, they talk about the importance of post-pledge stewardship in fostering long-term donor relationships and ensuring pledge fulfillment. “It’s easier to get the pledge than to get the pledge payment. And you need to steward them once they make a pledge. That’s when the work starts, because you need to keep them engaged,” Larry offers.
Related, Larry speaks about the inherent challenges of fundraising headwinds, from shrinking donor pools to volatile philanthropic . . . . . . . . .
How To Find New Donors In 2024
The transformative potential of strategic fundraising approaches grounded in donor-centricity, digital innovation, and proactive volunteer engagement in 2024. We are led by Katie Gaston, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Bloomerang, and she talks about meeting donors where they are, leveraging technology, and cultivating volunteer support. By embracing these principles, nonprofits can unlock new avenues for growth, sustainability, and mission impact.
As Katie begins, being a storyteller is foundational to effective fundraising. She emphasizes the importance of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with donors’ values and interests. She states, “We have to share the story in a meaningful way…so that it really resonates with what is meaningful to the individual.” This is key for understanding donors on a deeper level and tailoring communications accordingly.
One of the key strategies discussed is the imperative of meeting donors where they are, especially in the realm of digital giving. Katie highlights the potential of digital wallets like PayPal, Venmo, and Apple Pay in facilitating seamless donations. She notes, “By simply turning on things like Apple Pay and Google Pay, you can increase your donation page conversion rate by 8%.” This statistic speaks to the immense impact of integrating user-friendly payment options to enhance donor engagement and conversion.
Continuing, Katie elaborates on the untapped potential of volunteers as donors. Contrary to common apprehensions, she advocates for actively engaging volunteers in fundraising efforts, citing research indicating that 92% of volunteers are likely to donate to the organizations they serve. She says, “Cultivating them and seeing them as potential donors is a massively missed opportunity.” , highlighting the importance . . . . . . . . .
I Started A Nonprofit At 12!
12-year-old Arjun Sharda, founder, and executive director of Tleem.org, shares his remarkable nonprofit journey towards empowering individuals through education and technology. We hear how he formed Tleem.org at such a young age. With its mission to foster creativity and entrepreneurship among youth, Arjun’s insights demonstrate the power of purpose and persistence. He’s a “Student by day and Executive Director at night”!
Arjun Sharda reflects on his youthful passionate journey by pointing to the significance of empowering individuals to pursue their passions and unlock their potential from an early age, citing the lack of resources in elementary and middle schools as a driving force behind his nonprofit’s mission.
Arjun explains, “It’s especially important in this generation that we help people who have creativity, who have passion and help empower them to make businesses and to do stuff at an early age because we are called creative people when we are young.” This encapsulates his motivation to bridge the gap between youthful enthusiasm and practical skill development, laying the foundation for future innovation.
Show Host, Julia Patrick, commends Arjun’s initiative in reaching out and lauds the uniqueness of the American nonprofit structure. She engages in a profound discussion with Arjun about Tleem’s mission, its expansion through chapter structures, and the challenges he faces as both a student and executive director.
Arjun leads us through the evolution of Tleem.org from a local school club to a global movement, emphasizing the importance of providing resources and guidance to aspiring change-makers worldwide. He shares his aspirations for Tleem.org to be a household name, akin to renowned nonprofits, catalyzing transformative education and innovation.
Throughout . . . . . . . . .
The Three Types Of Donors
New research in understanding nonprofit donor’s, helping guide nonprofits towards better communications with donors, with Jane Pfeiffer, founder of FieldTrip.
Jane’s research reveals three distinct nonprofit supporter segments: empathetic, skeptical, and disconnected, which are not solely defined by demographics but by their beliefs, motivations, and views on nonprofit missions. Each segment requires tailored storytelling approaches to effectively engage and maintain support.
Moreover, Jane points to the importance of understanding donor attitudes beyond transactional perspectives, encouraging nonprofits to rethink how they approach fundraising, marketing, and storytelling. She offers actionable advice on identifying and engaging with different supporter segments within donor databases and events.
This new research underscores the transformative potential of understanding donor attitudes and behaviors, challenging nonprofits to adopt a more nuanced and empathetic approach in their interactions with supporters.
Host Julia Patrick acknowledges the need for a paradigm shift in nonprofit marketing and communication strategies. Jane encourages organizations to explore Field Trip’s research findings and consider integrating them into their decision-making processes to foster more meaningful connections with supporters.
Answers To Nonprofits Questions (Donors and Boards)
From dealing with large nonprofit donors and trust advisors, sorting nonprofit board member financial obligations, to explaining concepts like nonprofit cause selling and board dynamics, hosts Julia Patrick and Muhi Khwaja answer questions from nonprofits.
When faced with the dilemma of whether to bring someone else to a meeting with a large donor and their trust advisor, Muhi advises diversifying the skill set within the organization. He suggests involving estate planning lawyers or seeking pro bono services from local law firms to address legal questions effectively. Muhi emphasizes the importance of transparency and seeking assistance when needed, stating, “Don’t ever fear… I’ll get back to you.”
Speaking to the intricacies of fundraising strategies, Muhi clarifies the concept of cause selling, emphasizing its focus on relationship-driven approaches to cultivation and stewardship. He encourages nonprofits to leverage resources available through platforms like Fundraising Academy to educate board members and gain their buy-in to the process.
The conversation transitions to board management, where Muhi offers insights into determining the frequency of board meetings. He advocates for aligning meeting schedules with the capacity and commitment of board members, suggesting that quarterly meetings may suffice for certain organizations. However, he highlights the importance of regular committee meetings to ensure effective governance.
Addressing a question about the nuances between board dues and give-or-get policies, Muhi proposes a unique approach of assigning board members their own donor portfolios. This proactive strategy not only engages board members in fundraising activities but also fosters a deeper understanding of organizational goals and donor relationships.
Preventing Nonprofit Burnout
Mental and physical burnout in the nonprofit sector is an unfortunate reality, but there are ways to address it constructively. Meico Whitlock, founder of Mindful Techie, shares insights on how to protect ourselves from the ravages of nonprofit work.
Meico introduces a refreshing perspective on navigating burnout, urging us to change the conversation, with guidance that begins with, “We’re not chasing dollars or titles; we’re driven by a personal mission to leave the world better than we found it.” With that thought in mind, rather than a reactive approach, he advocates for proactive steps toward well-being. He believes in addressing burnout collectively and individually, offering a Change Framework comprising six commitments: Connect to Your Why, Honor Your Priorities, Acknowledge Limiting Beliefs, Negotiate Boundaries, Generate Inner Space, and Embody Well-being.
Throughout the conversation, Meico and the co-hosts, Wendy Adams and Julia Patrick, dig into the nuances of recognizing burnout. From increased sick days to withdrawal from colleagues, the signs are varied but crucial to acknowledge. Meico reminds us that self-care isn’t separate from the work; it is the work. By starting small, such as reaching out to HR for support or seeking medical advice, individuals can gradually reclaim balance.
The discussion unfolds into practical advice for individuals and organizations alike. Meico emphasizes simplicity, urging listeners to distill action plans down to what fits on an index card. He encourages a mindful, step-by-step approach, fostering a culture of grace and compassion toward oneself and others.
In the end, the fast-paced discussion will leave you with a profound insight: preventing burnout requires a shift in mindset and action. It’s about . . . . . . . . .
Insights from 2024’s Fundraiser of the Year
The role of a fundraiser extends far beyond mere solicitation; it’s about fostering a culture of philanthropy, building trust, and creating lasting impacts. Ken Phillips, named the Association of Fundraising Professional’s “2024 Fundraiser of the Year”, embodies these principles with remarkable distinction. In an insightful conversation with host Julia Patrick, Ken shares invaluable perspectives on the evolving landscape of fundraising and its profound significance in shaping a better world.
Ken brings to light the critical role of fundraisers in catalyzing positive change. With over four decades of experience, Ken epitomizes the transformative power of fundraising, grounded in a profound belief that it builds a better world, stating, “Raising money for good programs that help people and giving donors something of value… as a fundraiser, you’re helping two worlds.” His journey began with a deep-rooted passion for social impact, shaped by childhood influences and a commitment to excellence instilled by his parents. Through various roles in esteemed organizations like Isaac, Save the Children, and Plan International, Ken orchestrated remarkable growth, tripling incomes, and spearheading innovative strategies.
Throughout the fast-paced discussion, Ken points to the imperative of organizational cohesion, advocating for a holistic approach to fundraising. He advocates for a shift towards ‘total organization fundraising,’ where every member is empowered to champion the cause. He challenges the status quo, highlighting the pressing need for internal communication and professional development within fundraising teams. By fostering a culture of philanthropy and nurturing internal talent, Ken envisions a future where fundraisers are truly catalysts of change, driving sustainable impact worldwide.
As a leader in the nonprofit sector, using strategic foresight, . . . . . . . . .
Tech Trends In Nonprofit Finance 2024
The transformative power of technology in leveling the playing field in nonprofit finance. Jackie Tiso, CEO of JMT Consulting, discusses finding answers to finance-tech questions for nonprofits. Jackie shares JMT Consulting’s remarkable journey as a remote company serving nonprofits for over 30 years and elaborates on the evolution of technology and its impact on nonprofit operations, stressing the importance of financial management over traditional accounting practices. She speaks to the significance of seeking expertise from various sources, including online resources, conferences, and partnerships with specialized consultants. Jackie outlines how nonprofits can embrace the integration of diverse tools and expertise, emphasizing collaboration over competition in the sector. She explores the challenge of keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and advocates for a disciplined approach to continuous learning and knowledge sharing within the nonprofit community.
Preventing Fraud in Nonprofit Organizations
Preventing fraud in nonprofit organizations, with key strategies and actionable tips, for organizations to mitigate risks and maintain financial integrity. In today’s digital age, nonprofit organizations face an array of challenges, including the looming threat of fraud. Jennifer Alleva, CEO of Your Part-Time Controller, sheds light on implementing robust strategies to safeguard against fraudulent activities, outlining the role of internal controls, proper oversight, and proactive measures in mitigating risks. As she aptly puts it, “Fraud happens too often, and nonprofits are not immune to it.”
Jennifer begins by explaining the misconception that nonprofits are inherently safe from fraudulent activities, highlighting real-life cases where organizations fell victim to internal and external threats. From cyber risks to insider fraud, she stresses the significance of a vigilant approach, starting with establishing a culture of integrity and accountability at the top. Jennifer offers, “A top-down approach is essential, with the board and executive management setting the tone for ethical conduct and robust internal controls.”
Continuing, Jennifer gives insights into preventing fraud, including the necessity of background checks for personnel involved in financial management and the importance of segregating duties to avoid concentration of power. She emphasizes the need for regular financial reporting and analysis, urging board members to actively engage in monitoring financial activities. Jennifer suggests, “Board members have a responsibility to ask questions and seek clarity on financial matters, regardless of their expertise.”
In the digital realm, Jennifer warns against complacency and urges organizations to stay informed and proactive. She highlights the growing threat of cyber fraud, such as phishing attacks, and emphasizes the importance of continuous education and . . . . . . . . .