Love & Risk: The Finance Secrets Every Nonprofit Must Know!
Nicole Frisina, from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), wraps our arms around the financial realities nonprofits face. With a creative spin on Valentine’s Day, this valuable conversation explores the “red roses” of financial health and the “red flags” that can derail nonprofit organizations. “If you fail to plan, plan to fail. You must think ahead—whether it’s securing diverse funding, maintaining reserves, or ensuring financial oversight. Your mission depends on it.”
Nicole emphasizes a crucial but often overlooked truth: finance teams are integral to a nonprofit’s success. Far from being mere number crunchers, they serve as strategic partners who can make or break an organization’s long-term sustainability. From the importance of segregation of duties to monthly financial reporting and reserve planning, this episode, hosted by Julia Patrick, is packed with actionable insights for nonprofit leaders.
One of the biggest takeaways? Nonprofits must diversify revenue streams to safeguard their future. Nicole warns about the risks of relying on a single funding source, recalling how performing arts organizations struggled during COVID-19 when ticket sales—their primary income—dried up. She challenges nonprofit leaders to think creatively: Can you rent out office space? Offer paid online resources? Secure a line of credit when your finances are strong?
Another vital part of their discussion is the power of financial transparency and collaboration. Development and finance teams must work hand-in-hand, ensuring accurate financial statements that allow for proactive decision-making. Nicole points to how regular financial reporting and documented policies serve as the foundation for long-term financial health.
And the duo don’t let us forget the importance of the IRS Form 990—often . . . . . . . . .
Nonprofit Leaders: Master Crisis Messaging in Minutes!
Nonprofits, take note: Crisis is not a possibility; it’s an inevitability. And when it hits, your communication strategy can either reinforce your credibility or destroy it. In this powerhouse conversation, Kiersten Hill, Director of Nonprofit Solutions at FireSpring, lays out an unfiltered, practical, and downright essential playbook for crisis communication.
Let’s be clear: saying “No comment” is the worst move you can make. As Kiersten puts it, “The last thing you ever want to say is ‘no comment.’ It automatically makes you look guilty.” Instead, she urges organizations to take control, acknowledge the situation, and craft a response that is strategic, transparent, and mission-driven.
Beyond just reacting, Kiersten emphasizes that proactive communication with board members, donors, and the public is the best defense against misinformation and panic. She champions a mindset shift: invest more in marketing and communication during a crisis, not less! If your instinct is to cut budgets and go silent, you’re setting yourself up for long-term damage.
For every nonprofit leader out there, this is a must-watch. Because let’s face it—crises don’t wait for you to be ready.
#CrisisCommunication #NonprofitLeadership #nonprofitComms
Lapsed Donors? Here’s How to Get Them Back!
It’s the silent heartbreak of the nonprofit world—lapsed donors. These are the supporters who once believed in your mission, donated enthusiastically, and then… disappeared. But why? And more importantly, how do we get them back? That’s exactly what James Goalder, Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, unpacks in this power-packed conversation with Julia Patrick and Meredith Terrian.
The numbers are sobering: the donor retention rate in the U.S. has been stuck below 50% for years. That means for every ten donors nonprofits attract, at least five don’t come back. The reasons? Some are out of our control—life changes, financial setbacks, or even death. But the more painful reality is that many donors simply don’t know their support is needed. They don’t hear from the nonprofit, don’t see the impact of their gift, and ultimately assume their contribution didn’t matter.
And that’s an unacceptable reality. “We spend so much time, energy, and money bringing donors in, but then we let them slip away because we don’t communicate how much they still matter.” — says James.
As James explains, too many nonprofits focus on acquisition and neglect retention. They throw big fundraising events, pull off emotional appeals, and get people excited to give—only to vanish into radio silence afterward. His solution? Intentional, personalized donor engagement. “People like to see their names,” he emphasizes, underscoring how even small touches like personalized thank-you letters can make a massive difference.
One of the most compelling takeaways is the art of re-engagement. Instead of treating lapsed donors as ATMs with a one-time appeal, nonprofits should invite them back into the . . . . . . . . .
5 Generations, 1 Workplace: The Future of Nonprofit Staffing
The nonprofit sector is undergoing a seismic shift, and if organizations don’t evolve, they risk being left behind. Dana Scurlock, Director of Recruitment at Staffing Boutique, paints a vivid picture of the changing labor market, emphasizing that “the only thing you can rely on is that things are going to change quickly.”
For years, the traditional nonprofit workforce was defined by long tenures, deep loyalty, and a willingness to power through challenges with minimal flexibility. But that paradigm is being upended. Today’s workers—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are demanding more: flexibility, work-life balance, and meaningful engagement. They aren’t willing to stay in roles that undervalue their contributions or offer limited career growth.
One of the most eye-opening revelations is the diverse, multi-generational workforce we now see. With five generations working simultaneously—ranging from young entrepreneurs launching nonprofits to seasoned professionals in their 70s and 80s—nonprofits must navigate a workplace where values, expectations, and communication styles often clash. The challenge isn’t just attracting talent but retaining it in an environment where job tenure is shrinking.
Another crucial theme? The rise of self-care as a business priority. Gone are the days when employees were applauded for working while sick. The next-gen workforce sees well-being as a non-negotiable, not an indulgence. Organizations that resist this shift will struggle with retention, as workers now view their personal health and job satisfaction as essential to long-term success.
So, where does this leave nonprofit leaders? Adaptation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s offering hybrid work options, restructuring how tenure is valued, or reframing leadership to emphasize collaboration over hierarchy, . . . . . . . . .
Why Donor Retention Matters More Than You Think
Donor retention is the lifeblood of a sustainable nonprofit. Yet, it’s often overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of new donors. Cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall break down why retention is just as—if not more—important than donor acquisition and how organizations can master it.
At its core, donor retention is about stewardship. “The way in which you steward a donor or investor once they’ve offered a gift is really important,” says Tony. Retaining donors isn’t just cost-effective—it builds credibility, strengthens advocacy, and fosters long-term community support. The cost of acquiring new donors is five to ten times higher than keeping existing ones. So why do so many organizations struggle with retention?
One issue, Julia notes, is that nonprofits often fail to communicate impact effectively. “If you can’t understand what your impact is going to be, it’s not a very fulfilling relationship,” she points out. Successful stewardship is rooted in consistency, transparency, and engagement. A well-timed thank-you, a compelling impact story, or even a simple check-in call can make all the difference.
Tony details how donor retention is about relationships, not transactions. “They want to be seen. They want to be heard. They want to feel like their contributions are meaningful.” From personalized communication to authentic transparency—even when outcomes aren’t ideal—trust is the key to donor longevity.
And it’s not just about gratitude; it’s also about strategy. Donor retention metrics, such as calculating retention rates, should be a staple in nonprofit dashboards. “Any development officer should be able to share their donor retention rate,” Tony adds. Understanding these numbers gives organizations a roadmap to improve their engagement efforts.
#DonorRetention . . . . . . . . .
Nonprofit Capital Campaigns: Success Strategies from an Insider
In the world of nonprofit fundraising, few topics carry as much weight—or as much uncertainty—as capital campaigns. In this riveting conversation, cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy F. Adams sit down with the esteemed Steven Shattuck, Director of Engagement at Capital Campaign Pro, to pull back the curtain on the most pressing capital campaign insights, fears, and strategies that can make or break a nonprofit’s fundraising success.
Steven, a leading voice in nonprofit innovation and the author of ‘Robots Make Bad Fundraisers’, takes the audience into the why and how of capital campaigns, exploring feasibility studies, consultant roles, donor engagement, and the key intersection between #AI and fundraising. As capital campaigns often mean a seismic financial undertaking, many nonprofit leaders hesitate, fearing failure, funding shortages, or strategic missteps. In his conversation with cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy Adams, Steven debunks myths and presents data-driven best practices to demystify the process.
A particularly eye-popping moment in the chat is the revelation that ‘96% of nonprofits conducting capital campaigns reported satisfaction with their results—even if they didn’t reach their full goal’. Why? Because the ancillary benefits, from strengthening donor relationships to refining their internal fundraising systems, turned out to be just as critical as the dollars raised.
A major takeaway? Feasibility studies are not just about testing fundraising goals—they are an opportunity to connect with major donors and lay the groundwork for campaign success. As Steven describes . . .“You’re going to come out of the process having a better idea of what you can raise, because that’s what you’re doing—you’re testing the . . . . . . . . .
From Paper Bids to Millions Raised For Nonprofits!
Technology has reshaped the fundraising landscape, and in this conversation, Matthew Burnell, founder and CEO of ClickBid, breaks down how mobile bidding and phone-based tech have revolutionized the way nonprofits engage donors.
Gone are the days of frenzied paper-based silent auctions, where donors jostled for position, hoping to scribble down the winning bid. Matthew shares how ClickBid has streamlined the entire experience, making it easier, faster, and more engaging—whether supporters are in the room or across the globe.
The shift wasn’t always smooth. When mobile bidding first emerged, skeptics hesitated. Change brings uncertainty, especially in traditional fundraising circles. But as Matthew points out, the data speaks volumes: “Just by adding the auction component, we see a consistent 30% bump in fundraising totals.”
Matthew also talks about security concerns, explaining how new tech enhances donor safety. Instead of handing credit card details to a volunteer, donors can now pay securely from their own devices, reducing risk and increasing trust.
This sparkly conversation goes beyond just auctions. Fundraising events have always centered around donor engagement, and ClickBid ensures technology enhances rather than replaces the human touch. For example, a real-time paddle-raise feature lets donors see their names flash on-screen during a live event—whether they’re in the ballroom or bidding from their living room.
The future? Matthew envisions AI-powered insights that help nonprofits personalize donor interactions in real time—a game-changer in event fundraising. Watch and learn how “Fundraising tech isn’t just about transactions—it’s about elevating donor experiences.”
#FundraisingInnovation #NonprofitTech #MobileBidding
Feeling Stuck? How ‘Middle-Essence’ Can Transform Your Next Chapter
At what point in life do we stop growing, learning, or pushing beyond our comfort zones? For Lauri Hennessey, the answer is simple: never.
Our cohosts welcome Lauri Hennessey, a communications expert, nonprofit leader, and now an educator at the University of Washington. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring—one of reinvention, resilience, and relentless pursuit of purpose.
Lauri’s story takes us back to her early years at the University of Washington, where she left school without a degree to pursue a career in journalism. What followed was a distinguished professional journey in media, politics, and nonprofit leadership. But beneath her successes, there was always that lingering unfinished chapter—her education. It wasn’t until a colleague’s simple yet powerful question, “Are you dead?” that Lauri recognized the only thing holding her back was herself.
So she returned. Not only did she complete her long-abandoned undergraduate degree, but she went on to earn a master’s degree and ultimately became a professor. Through this transition, she discovered a profound connection between the nonprofit world and academia—both sectors fueled by storytelling, impact, and a shared mission for change.
Lauri sheds light on a fascinating concept: ‘middle-essence’. Often compared to adolescence, this period between ages 45 to 65 forces individuals to question their purpose, their legacy, and what truly fulfills them. She challenges the inertia that can settle in as we grow older, urging us to remain curious, bold, and open to reinvention.
For nonprofit professionals, her story is especially poignant. Burnout is real, talent is being lost, and many feel trapped in an unending cycle of fundraising, board management, and . . . . . . . . .
The Retiring Nonprofit Leader: Navigating the Leadership Shift
The nonprofit sector is facing an unprecedented wave of leadership transitions, and it’s not slowing down. This discussion on “The Retiring Nonprofit Leader” delves into the complexities of executive transitions, the emotional weight of departing leaders, and the structural challenges organizations face when leadership changes hands.
Guest Catherine Bradshaw, a leadership transition consultant at EOS Transition Partners, highlights the phenomenon of the “silver tsunami,” where baby boomer executives, after years of delays due to economic downturns and global crises, are now retiring in droves. “The younger generation is saying, ‘I’m not going to work 70 hours a week,’ which means we need to redefine leadership roles.”
Nancy Long, executive advisor and former executive director of 501 Commons, underscores the burden these long-serving leaders have carried. “Nonprofits recover much slower than businesses or government from economic crises. Executive directors have been shouldering the weight, and now many are simply spent.”
Beyond the emotional challenges, there are significant financial and operational risks. Catherine warns, “A rushed transition can lead to the wrong hire, staff departures, and lost funders.” Nancy adds, “A proper transition plan is like a race car pit stop—former executives should step back but remain available for critical guidance.”
This conversation is a wake-up call for nonprofit boards and executives alike. Proper planning, structured transition support, and a focus on leadership sustainability are key to ensuring organizations thrive through these changes.
#NonprofitLeadership #ExecutiveTransition #SilverTsunami
The Power of Case Studies in Nonprofit Fundraising!
How do you transform a simple document into a powerful storytelling tool that inspires donor action? That’s exactly what cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall tackled on this week’s Fundraisers Friday episode on How to Use Case Studies in Fundraising.
Case studies aren’t just dry reports filled with data; they are dynamic narratives that celebrate an organization’s impact. As Tony put it, “A case study is a celebration of the work and the accomplishments of your organization.” Rather than seeing them as another bureaucratic task, nonprofits should recognize them as strategic storytelling tools that capture purpose, execution, and impact.
The fast-paced conversation highlights the importance of humanizing data with powerful testimonials—from clients, volunteers, or even city officials—adding credibility and emotional depth. Julia points to this shift in nonprofit storytelling: “The sense was if you don’t have images of devastation, you won’t light a fire under anyone—but now we’re seeing hopeful, positive images of impact.”
Another key takeaway you’ll find? Who owns the case study? While some organizations leave this to research teams, Tony emphasized the role of marketing in crafting an engaging, visually compelling narrative. Plus, if nonprofits lack resources, they can partner with universities, business associations, and even SCORE (Gov’t agency) to leverage external expertise.
The duo wrapped up with a powerful call to action: case studies aren’t just about the past—they should be forward-thinking tools that drive engagement, build donor trust, and inspire action. Whether used for grant applications, board reports, or major donor conversations, these documents must prove why the organization’s work matters.
Nonprofits, STOP Doing This! Sherry Quam Taylor’s Bold Fundraising Advice
In the dynamic world of nonprofit fundraising, where digital tools and transactional techniques often dazzle, Sherry Quam Taylor sounds a clarion call back to the essentials—deep, transformational relationships. As we roll into 2025, Sherry delivers a message to fundraisers to ‘refocus on the fundamentals of building meaningful donor connections, rather than chasing the latest tech-driven trends’.
Throughout this compelling conversation with host Julia Patrick, Sherry dissects the misconceptions of modern fundraising, emphasizing that while technology and events have their place, they shouldn’t overshadow the power of one-on-one relationships. Too many nonprofit professionals, she warns, have become “glorified admin fundraisers,” trapped by the allure of automation and transactional efficiency at the cost of real genuine engagement.
“We want 50 to 75% of your annual revenue coming from relationships,” Sherry offers up . . . “Donors give their best gift because of relationships, not because of flashy campaigns.”
She challenges NPO leaders to analyze their time and effort allocation, pushing for more data-driven decision-making when it comes to fundraising events. One interesting case study she describes, revealed that less than 20% of a gala’s revenue came from outside donors, prompting the NPO to take a hard look at their ROI.
Continuing, Sherry introduces a powerful paradigm shift—leveraging brand authority on platforms like LinkedIn to attract mid-to-major-level donors. “We can’t hide anymore. Our donors need to see us as the thought leaders we are,” she says.
You’ll agree that Sherry’s insights can push the sector toward a more sustainable, relationship-centered fundraising model, so that nonprofits not only survive but thrive in the coming years.
AI, Mental Health & The New Workforce – Nonprofit Trends In 2025!
The nonprofit world is evolving fast, and as we step into 2025, organizations must embrace key shifts to stay impactful. Meico Marquette Whitlock, a workplace well-being strategist and CEO of Mindful Techie, unpacked the trends that will shape the sector this year!
Mental Health Is a Must-Have, Not a Luxury. Burnout is at an all-time high, and nonprofits can no longer afford to treat well-being as an afterthought. Meico underscores the urgency, stating, “Taking care of your people and making sure they are well is the mission. If they’re not taken care of, your mission won’t move forward.”
Flexible Work Is Here to Stay. The pandemic changed how we work forever, and successful nonprofits will be those that embrace flexible policies—not just remote work, but truly adaptive structures that prioritize people’s needs and productivity.
Soft Skills Matter More Than Ever. In an AI-driven world, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and human connection will define successful leadership. Technology can enhance efficiency, but it can’t replace the value of being human in the workplace.
Authentic and Meaningful Online & Offline Connections. Whether remote, hybrid, or in-office, organizations must be digitally fluid—blending in-person and virtual interactions with intention, ensuring every connection has real value.
AI: No Longer a Shiny New Toy. AI is now an operational necessity, but nonprofits must integrate it thoughtfully. From fundraising to donor engagement, organizations need a mission-aligned AI strategy that balances efficiency with ethical considerations.
You’ll enjoy this conversation that will help your nonprofit navigate 2025 with clarity, purpose, and soul.
#NonprofitLeadership #WorkplaceWellbeing #AIforGood