![Nonprofit Marketing and Communication Courses](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/marketing-courses.png)
Nonprofit Marketing And Communications
Uncover the keys to impactful marketing and compelling communications with our extensive collection of educational videos–tailored to meet the needs of nonprofits. Immerse yourself in learning about effective branding, content strategy, social media engagement, and beyond. Each of these lessons, guided by seasoned nonprofit professionals, will provide you with a deeper understanding of the unique marketing landscape nonprofits navigate, and equip you with practical skills to communicate your mission convincingly. You’ll learn how to amplify your organization’s voice and make it resonate with potential donors, volunteers, and the communities you serve. Dive deep into topics like creating inspiring narratives, building influential marketing campaigns, and leveraging the digital world to reach broader audiences.
![From Military To Civilian Life (VETLIFE nonprofit) From Military To Civilian Life (VETLIFE nonprofit)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/2hsiymtadra/4151345285.jpg)
An inspiring conversation with Joshua and Cortnie Parish, the passionate founders of VET Life, to discuss the journey from military to civilian life. Their personal story and their nonprofit’s story are a testament to the power of family, community, and unwavering support in the transition process.
Joshua begins by sharing his military background, painting a vivid picture of his life on a Native American reservation in Michigan. From an early age, a sense of family and purpose is ingrained in him. However, after serving in Iraq during the initial invasion in 2003, Joshua faced the harsh reality of adjusting to civilian life. “One thing they don’t tell you when you get home from combat is you can’t turn that off,” he says. This sentiment speaks to the ongoing struggle many veterans face upon returning home.
Cortnie, with her background in organizational leadership, speaks about the crucial role families play in this transition. “Families often in their own way, face deployments as well,” she says, addressing the importance of including the entire family in their events and programs. This holistic approach sets VET Life apart from other organizations, recognizing that the challenges of reintegration extend beyond the individual veteran.
The Parishes' dedication to their mission is evident in their innovative approaches, such as the creation of Vet Fest. This event not only provides resources but also creates a fun, inclusive environment for veterans and their families. Joshua proudly shares, “In 2023, the VA reaches out and asks if they could replicate our Vet Fest on a national model.”, recognizing the impact of their nonprofit’s work and their commitment to improving the quality of life for veterans.
A big part of this embracing conversation is the systemic challenges veterans face in accessing their benefits. Joshua recounts his own struggle, explaining, “The military doesn’t prepare you for what civilian life really is like.” Cortnie’s gentle push for Joshua to utilize his benefits and further his education brings home the reality of family support in navigating these complexities.
The Parishes are not just helping individual veterans; they are shaping a new model for veteran support. Their efforts lead to the digitization of military records in Michigan, streamlining access to crucial documents, along with Joshua’s creation of the Battle Buddy app, a one-stop shop for veteran resources, is another innovative step toward addressing these systemic issues. In the words of Joshua Parrish, “We want you to know that there are people out there that care about you and want to see you be the most successful version of yourself.”. Learn more at: VetLifeToday.org
![Disability Advocacy and Mindset (Meet a Trailblazer) Disability Advocacy and Mindset (Meet a Trailblazer)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/07/Vphx_v9hkyk/1755084526.jpg)
Community Options empowers individuals with disabilities through innovative programs, person-first language, and meaningful employment opportunities. Learn about the transformative impact of inclusive living environments and the future potential of people with disabilities in the workforce with Robert Stack, President and CEO of Community Options, as he shares insights on disability advocacy and inclusive housing solutions in this enlightening interview.
Robert begins by sharing the compelling journey and mission of Community Options, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to developing housing and employment for people with disabilities.
Community Options, founded in 1989, arose from the pressing need to provide sustainable living solutions for individuals with disabilities who were either living in institutions or with aging parents unable to care for them. Robert explains, "We saw a need for this because there were so many thousands and thousands of people with disabilities living in institutions and living with mom and dad. And now mom and dad are getting older. They're no longer able to care for them, and they didn't know where to turn." This mission drives the organization's innovative approach of buying small homes and creating inclusive living environments where individuals with disabilities can lead independent lives, equipped with the necessary skills and support.
Robert reflects on the progress made over the years in disability advocacy. "I think we've made tremendous progress, but we still have a long way to go," he states. Highlighting the importance of evolving language and societal attitudes, he emphasizes the shift from labels like "the disabled" to "people with disabilities," underscoring the importance of person-first language.
The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, digs into the practical aspects of Community Options' work. Robert shares a poignant story of Bernard, an individual who found meaningful employment and a better quality of life through the organization. "Bernard was blind and had intellectual disabilities, but he knew that what he was doing was meaningless," Robert recounts. Community Options provided Bernard with a job as a receptionist, where he thrived, living independently and retiring after a fulfilling career.
Looking ahead, Robert envisions a future where people with disabilities play a vital role in the workforce. "We still need somebody to carry our luggage up the stairs. We still need somebody to clean our office. We still need somebody who can help us change the tire on our car. People with disabilities will be those people," he predicts, highlighting the untapped potential of this community.
This compelling discussion sheds light on the transformative power of inclusive practices and the ongoing journey toward equality and dignity for all individuals with disabilities. Community Options stands as a testament to the positive impact of dedicated advocacy and innovative solutions in the nonprofit sector.
![The Vital Impacts Of Nonprofit's Website The Vital Impacts Of Nonprofit's Website](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Axlpyzld7sy/1617004438.jpg)
The strategic values of good website development for nonprofits, with Maiya Holliday, CEO of Mangrove-web.com . You’ll discover insights on creating engaging, accessible websites that align with organizational goals and resonate with diverse audiences, and the importance of inclusivity in digital spaces.
Maiya Holliday, with her two decades of experience in website development, outlines the importance of beginning with a strategic approach to web design. She explains how developing a website often becomes a soul-searching journey for organizations, revealing deeper questions about their purpose and goals. "There's definitely a bit of an identity crisis that I've seen through the website process, but it's also moving forward and really putting those things into action and putting them out into the world," she says, which begins to describe the transformative potential of this process.
She elaborates on the strategic elements, discussing the importance of aligning website content with organizational objectives. This involves engaging with various stakeholders to create compelling narratives that resonate across diverse audience segments. "We work through all those steps with you in service of creating the website that satisfies your objectives," she explains. This approach ensures that the website not only looks appealing but also fulfills its role in furthering the organization’s mission.
Accessibility was another key topic. Maiya passionately speaks about the necessity of making websites accessible to people with a range of abilities, aligning digital spaces with the inclusivity seen in physical environments. "Website accessibility ensures that there's a really wide range of usability on your site," says Maiya, speaking to inclusive design that benefits a broader audience while meeting legal requirements.
Throughout the conversation, the theme of strategic planning recurres, with Maiya advocating for its crucial role in the early stages of website development. This planning not only guides the aesthetic and functional aspects of a nonprofit’s website but also ensures that it aligns with the broader goals of the organization.
![The Power of Nonprofit Branding The Power of Nonprofit Branding](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Hbw4nhrdxs8/1234641518.jpg)
The essentials of effective nonprofit branding, with Catherine Alonzo from Javelina Consulting, emphasizing that a nonprofit’s brand extends beyond visual elements like logos, as it encapsulates the organization's personality and core values. The conversation digs into common branding mistakes nonprofits make and highlights the value of authentic, relevant, and consistent messaging to truly resonate with audiences and support organizational missions. This engaging discussion with Catherine, cohosted by Mitch Stein and Julia Patrick, offers practical insights for nonprofits aiming to enhance their brand strategy and impact.
Catherine begins by explaining how a brand is much more than just a logo or a color palette—it's the organization's personality. This includes how the nonprofit behaves, its values, and its engagement style, rather than just its visual identity. She points out a common pitfall among nonprofits: becoming bored with their brand and mistakenly believing a logo change can solve deeper issues. Catherine and Mitch discuss the importance of starting with the core identity and messaging of the brand, rather than superficial changes, to truly resonate with the nonprofit’s audiences and represent their mission authentically.
This lively discussion also covers the common misconception that rebranding alone can solve all organizational challenges. Catherine stresses that while branding is crucial, it should not be seen as a panacea. Instead, it should be approached as a comprehensive strategy that includes clear messaging, consistent communication, and alignment with the nonprofit’s core mission and values.
Catherine also elaborates on the tactical aspects of branding, such as ensuring that all communications are authentic, relevant, and consistent. She notes the importance of understanding the organization's core identity—why they do, what they do, how they do it, who they serve, and what makes them unique. This foundation should be the basis for all strategic decisions, from marketing to employee engagement and beyond.
Catherine’s insights will provide you a roadmap for your nonprofit to align their internal values with external perceptions, ensuring your branding efforts are both strategic and impactful. Her holistic approach to branding not only boosts organizational coherence but also strengthens those key connections with your community, donors, and other stakeholders.
![Advocating For Veteran's Futures (Bob Woodruff Foundation) Advocating For Veteran's Futures (Bob Woodruff Foundation)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/06/Azez1bh1_yo/392603673.jpg)
Anne Marie Dougherty, CEO of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, discusses the foundation's mission to support U.S. veterans and their families in this recent interview. She highlights the foundation’s origins, sparked by journalist Bob Woodruff's injuries in Iraq, and its commitment to connecting veterans with essential resources through the "Got Your Six" network. Dougherty describes their data-driven approach to expand reach and efficacy, underlining the foundation’s evolution and adaptability in meeting veterans' needs over 18 years.
In this insightful interview on the Nonprofit Show, Anne Marie outlines the foundation's origins, tracing back to a critical moment in 2006 when Bob Woodruff, a journalist for ABC News, was severely injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq. His family's firsthand experiences of the gaps in support during his recovery inspired the creation of the foundation.
Anne Marie describes the foundation's approach, which leverages a vast network to connect veterans to necessary resources and support. She explains how the foundation operates on principles of gratitude and generosity, deeply rooted in the ethos of the organization. "Everything we do is infused with the generosity of spirit and an ethos of gratitude," she remarks, illustrating the foundation's commitment to authentically serving those who have served the nation.
Under Anne Marie’s leadership, the foundation has not only sustained but expanded its mission over 18 years, adapting to the evolving needs of veterans through initiatives like the "Got Your Six" network. This particular program focuses on creating accessible, local connections to services for veterans, addressing both the visibility and availability of support covering all 50 states and nearly all veterans in the country.
Anne Marie also speaks about the importance of data-driven approaches in enhancing the foundation’s outreach and effectiveness. "We're able to slice and dice the data geographically... to arm our policymakers with information that's relevant to their district," she explains, then referencing the strategic use of data to influence policy and ensure targeted, impactful support.
Cohosts Julia Patrick and Meredith Terrian engage with several questions of Anne Marie, as she expresses a forward-thinking vision, emphasizing preparedness and adaptability as key to future successes. Reflecting on the foundation's trajectory and the ongoing needs of veterans, she reiterates the importance of readiness and strategic planning in navigating future challenges and recognizing opportunities.
![Corporate Engagement And Nonprofits (Soles4Souls.org) Corporate Engagement And Nonprofits (Soles4Souls.org)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/8gvoffi3wkw/1144989957.jpg)
Discover how a nonprofit organization transforms unwanted shoes and clothing into tools for empowerment, economic opportunity, and environmental sustainability, as they share insights into the impactful partnerships and volunteer activities that drive community service and corporate engagement, emphasizing the transformative effects of programs across global communities. In this engaging interview with Robin Witczak, VP of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at Soles4Souls, you’ll learn about their mission to extend the lifecycle of goods and make a tangible difference in the world.
Robin describes Soles4Souls' transformative approach to repurposing unwanted shoes and clothing into tools for relief, economic opportunity, and environmental sustainability. "We take unwanted shoes, clothes, and accessories and we turn them into opportunity by keeping them from going to waste and really putting them to good use," she explains. This is achieved through their core programs focused on providing new shoes for people in crisis, creating job opportunities through the distribution of shoes, and empowering children across the US with new athletic shoes.
Central to this lively discussion, with cohosts Wendy Adams and Tony Beall, was the impact of corporate partnerships on Soles4Souls' mission. Witczak points to the importance of these collaborations, emphasizing that they go beyond transactions to foster genuine partnerships. "I don't want this to be a transaction. I want this to truly be a partnership," she offers, underscoring the strategic role these relationships play in enhancing volunteer engagement and community impact. She also details the significant environmental impact of their initiatives, noting the organization's commitment to preventing premature disposal of usable goods and extending their lifecycle.
Continuing, Robin shares compelling stories about the deep, personal connections people forge through volunteer activities associated with Soles4Souls. She recounts a fun anecdotal story of a senior volunteer that managed to collect thousands of shoes (spoiler alert. .. she turns out to be her inspiration and mother!).
You’ll enjoy this illuminating chat about the powerful intersection of personal passion, corporate partnership, and community service, all centered around the transformative mission of Soles4Souls. . . . . . .a testament to the profound impact one organization can have on both local and global scales, driven by a commitment to sustainability, empowerment, and compassionate action.
![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/2099302014.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.
![Amplify Your Nonprofit's Marketing Message Amplify Your Nonprofit's Marketing Message](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/7h05blokm5o/4045749845.jpg)
Our guest introduces a nine-part "marketing sound system" that includes a compelling story framework and strategies for amplifying nonprofit messaging effectively. His insights emphasize the importance of clarity, consistency, and the power of storytelling in engaging nonprofit donors and standing out in the crowded and competitive nonprofit sector. This episode provides valuable strategies for nonprofits looking to boost their marketing and communications efforts.
Anthony Dicks, Jr., from 180 Management Group, begins the discussion by metaphorically describing marketing as akin to handling a sound system—a complex yet essential tool for amplifying messages in a noisy environment. Drawing from his childhood experience assisting his preacher father with church sound systems, Anthony points to the key to understanding and managing various elements of a sound system to enhance communication effectiveness. He offers a nine-part "marketing sound system" that includes components like a compelling story framework, a sounding board for idea validation, amplifiers to boost signal, equalizers to balance message delivery, and speakers to clearly issue calls to action.
Anthony encapsulates the essence of his marketing philosophy: "A whole lot of marketing is like managing a sound system. First, you want to overcome the noise that's already in the market, but in order to do that, you need a sound system. And by sound system, I just don't mean the mixer. I mean a system that is sound in how you generate your messages, how you release those messages, how you manage those messages really contribute to how it is you amplify that message."
Anthony goes on to elaborate on the need for nonprofits to craft a marketing strategy that resonates clearly and consistently with their target audience. He stresses the importance of frequency and clarity in messaging, noting that clear, consistent messages more effectively penetrate market noise and resonate with intended audiences. Additionally, he underscores the power of storytelling in marketing, advocating for narratives that feature a hero overcoming significant obstacles, thereby providing hope and inspiration to potential donors and stakeholders.
This lively conversation also touches upon the strategic use of digital platforms and media to reach specific demographics, emphasizing the importance of aligning message delivery channels with the preferences and habits of the target audience.
![Planning A Volunteer Appreciation Event (Honoring Volunteers) Planning A Volunteer Appreciation Event (Honoring Volunteers)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/05/3tqg6huv5wg/3417571236.jpg)
Expert strategies for planning successful volunteer appreciation events with insights from Melissa Pinard, Head of Product Management at Bloomerang Volunteer. Learn how to effectively recognize and engage your volunteers, seamlessly integrate them into your donor campaigns, and use data-driven approaches to highlight their impact. This comprehensive discussion offers best practices on organizing appreciation events that honor and support volunteers' dedication and foster deeper connections within your non-profit. Improve your volunteer management techniques and celebrate your volunteers in a way that boosts retention and encourages their ongoing contribution to your cause.
![The Power Of Nonprofit Storytelling Through Books The Power Of Nonprofit Storytelling Through Books](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/04/Xtpimcvdypc/4124193959.jpg)
Exploring a whole new dimension of nonprofit storytelling. The potential of nonprofit organizations writing books. We uncover the transformative power of storytelling through the lens of publishing, with host Julia Patrick and guest, Ben Gioia, author of "Influence with a Heart,".
Ben's journey, from facing mortality in India to a galvanized commitment to serve, forms the backdrop of his message. As he shares, "Influence with the Heart is the ongoing invitation to offer someone to say yes to you," encompassing communication, leadership, and impact.
In this fast-paced learning episode, they highlight the unique challenges and opportunities nonprofits face, especially in a global context where structures vary widely. As Ben puts it, "The nonprofit sector is a remarkable thing, drawing from cultures worldwide, each with its legislative nuances."
The conversation expands to the nuts and bolts of book creation. Ben shares a process, emphasizing collaboration with a coach and publisher. From concept to publication, he outlines a strategic timeline, pointing to the importance of leveraging the book before and after its release.
![A Nonprofit Empowering Underrepresented Communities through Advanced Education A Nonprofit Empowering Underrepresented Communities through Advanced Education](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/04/V7e5prcuyoc/1470411005.jpg)
Derrick Young, Jr. embarked on a mission to address the lack of diversity in advanced education, particularly in fields like law, medicine, and STEM. Despite facing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and shifts in corporate support, the nonprofit he founded, Leadership Brainery , has emerged as a beacon of hope for underrepresented communities seeking access to higher education. Co-hosts Julia Patrick and Mitch Stein welcome back Derrick for an insightful discussion on the organization's journey and impact.
Young's personal experiences as one of the few men of color in his graduate programs fueled his passion to create change. He emphasizes, "Leadership Brainery increases access to masters and doctoral degrees so that underrepresented communities can establish wealth for themselves and prosperity for their families, but then reinvest back in their communities." This mission is underscored by the organization's commitment to fostering diversity at leadership levels, ensuring marginalized voices are heard in decision-making processes.
![Nonprofit's Transforming Communities (Wow Hall) Nonprofit's Transforming Communities (Wow Hall)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/04/Hgdtm3r_y9m/1863905631.jpg)
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.
![How To Find New Donors In 2024 (For Nonprofits) How To Find New Donors In 2024 (For Nonprofits)](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/04/03egpfy-rk0/2210717899.jpg)
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, a 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.
![The Three Types of Nonprofit Donor's The Three Types of Nonprofit Donor's](https://americannonprofitacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2024/04/Sh_fvrfacse/2273060797.jpg)
New research in understanding nonprofit donor’s, helping guide nonprofits towards better communications with donors, with Jane Pfeiffer, founder of Field Trip.
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.