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We’re discovering a flexible and accessible fundraising training program, designed to empower fundraisers at any stage of their careers. Our host is joined by Pearl Hoeglund from the Fundraising Academy at National University. As a Director, Pearl shares with our host Julia Patrick, and you as a viewer, her passion for nurturing the next generation of fundraising leaders. She calls upon the importance of learning, collaboration, and long-term career sustainability, that help nonprofit professionals thrive in a field that requires both skill and heart.
The Fundraising Academy offers a certification pathway that emphasizes relationship-driven fundraising, focusing on building authentic connections with donors. Pearl shares her personal journey through the program, noting how it transformed her approach. After completing the certificate, she said, “I approached donors confidently with excitement. I knew how to build authentic relationships with them and align them with the cause that they care about.” This confidence and strategy are key elements of the Academy’s curriculum, which equips fundraisers with the skills to secure major gifts and sustain long-term relationships—crucial for avoiding burnout.
What makes the program particularly compelling is its flexibility. With self-paced, modular courses, participants can dive into specific areas such as stewardship or donor outreach, then move on to other topics. The program culminates in a capstone project where fundraisers create a customized development plan for their organization, with guidance from a mentor. Pearl points to the real-world application of this training: “You leave the capstone with a fundraising development plan that you can bring back to your organization that can actually be activated!”
The certification is also highly accessible. For $2,500, participants get 125 hours of training, making it an affordable option for both individuals and organizations. Additionally, the program is being submitted for CFRE credits, further solidifying its value for professional development.
This is a must-watch for anyone in the nonprofit world looking to refine their messaging and build stronger relationships with their supporters. Tune in on this candid discussion on how to stay mission-focused, engage your audience, and share a story that’s truly worth telling.
We dive deep into the importance of storytelling for nonprofits, featuring the wisdom of Robert Wheeler, CEO of Mission Clarity, and co-hosts, Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, cofounder of Cultivate for Good, and Julia Patrick--revolving around one central question: Is your nonprofit’s story worth telling?
Robert brings his years of experience to the table, focusing on the importance of clarifying a nonprofit’s mission, particularly in times of crisis. In a world where nonprofits are constantly called forward during moments of upheaval—be it natural disasters or economic shifts—the ability to tell a compelling and clear story is essential.
Wendy adds her expertise, outlining how many organizations struggle to define and stay true to their mission. As she puts it, “If you don’t know what your mission is, there’s no way to stay on it.” This is a common pitfall for many nonprofits that get caught in what she refers to as the "drift," losing sight of the very essence of why they exist.
The trio explore how to strike the delicate balance between authenticity and vulnerability without slipping into victimhood. Robert underscores this balance, saying: “When you portray yourself as vulnerable without being a victim, you breed collaboration. But when you drift into victimhood, you breed competition.” This powerful statement reinforces the need for nonprofits to tell their story in a way that invites others to join their mission, rather than simply seeking sympathy.
Expert’s takeaways for anyone involved with nonprofit boards, offering fresh perspectives on how to inspire board members to think big, act boldly, and stay focused on the long-term success of their organizations!
From two seasoned experts who recently wrote books about Nonprofit Boards, Julia Patrick, CEO of the American Nonprofit Academy, and Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of QuamTaylor, dive deep into the challenges and dynamics of nonprofit boards.
Sherry and Julia explore the importance of understanding how nonprofit boards operate and how each member’s expertise can either enhance or hinder the organization's progress.
A major focus of the conversation is Sherry's "Build a Better Board Member" guide, where she outlines three often-overlooked characteristics that contribute to board success: being a learner, staying in your lane, and being financially bold and creative. Sherry argues that many board members are expected to contribute based on their expertise but lack crucial skills in areas like fundraising. She stresses the importance of board members being willing to learn and adapt to these areas, especially as nonprofit organizations seek to scale and grow.
Julia adds depth to the conversation by discussing her book, Building Board Champions, where she shares actionable strategies for engaging boards more effectively. Together, they explore how communication and trust between the executive team and the board are essential for nonprofit success. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they unpack the challenges many nonprofit leaders face in aligning board members with the mission and financial goals of the organization.
Unlock the powerful connection between volunteers and donors. James Goalder, Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, makes a compelling case: Volunteers and donors aren’t separate groups—they’re driven by the same passion to make a difference, and nonprofits should engage them accordingly.
“The reason people volunteer and the reason they donate are often pretty similar... If you’re not appealing to them for both, you’re missing out on a way to really cement that relationship,” James begins. This shift in mindset could be a game-changer, breaking down traditional silos and unlocking new opportunities for deeper engagement and support.
James also tackles the sector’s current challenges head-on. With donor and volunteer numbers on the decline since the pandemic, nonprofits are increasingly leaning on major donors to keep things afloat. But he warns, “If the donor universe has dropped but the dollars have stayed relatively the same, that means we’re going back to the same major donors again and again... and eventually, they’re going to get tired.” This ‘donor fatigue’ threatens sustainability unless nonprofits start thinking differently—by engaging volunteers as donors and showing how both time and money make an impact.
The key? Storytelling. James details how effective communication, filled with emotional narratives and impact-driven stories, keeps supporters inspired. When volunteers see the value of their time and donors understand how every dollar makes a difference, the relationship deepens. “Whether they stuff envelopes or write a check, both contributions matter,” he offers.
This sparkling conversation will fire up nonprofits to rethink their engagement strategies. It’s not just about separating donors and volunteers—it’s about recognizing the overlap, nurturing those connections, and keeping supporters engaged with stories that resonate. With fresh ideas and actionable advice, you’ll feel energized and ready to bring volunteers and donors together to build something lasting and impactful.
Nonprofit Power Week covering artificial intelligence and it’s role in the nonprofit sector. This conversation centers around answering viewers questions about practical concerns and considerations from nonprofits.
The duo begin with comments about the shared responsibility between humans and AI within nonprofits. While AI can automate tasks and provide valuable insights, human oversight remains essential. Validating AI-generated content, ensuring data accuracy, and making informed decisions based on AI outputs are all critical steps in maximizing AI's benefits while mitigating its risks.
One listener question focused on the use of personal devices and public AI platforms for work purposes. Jeff acknowledges the allure of readily accessible AI tools like ChatGPT but cautions against the use of sensitive data on such platforms. "The tech contractor is accurate in saying you shouldn't do that," Jeff explains, referring to the practice of inputting proprietary data into public AI models
He advocates for a more controlled approach, leveraging platforms that prioritize data security and responsible AI usage.
Another crucial point raised is the ongoing nature of AI implementation. Jeff pushes for a measured approach, starting small and iteratively expanding AI usage as the organization gains experience and comfort. He draws an analogy to training an intern, highlighting the need for continuous learning and refinement. "AI learns," he explains, "but we have to teach it what it needs to know”
The understanding you’ll get from this lively chat is the importance of viewing AI as a powerful tool that, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance nonprofit operations.
AI is not just for tech giants—it is accessible, and with the right approach, it can empower nonprofits to achieve their missions more effectively. In the nonprofit world, staying current with technology is essential for efficiency and growth. In this Nonprofit Power Week episode, Jeff Hensel, a director at Eide Bailly, highlights the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into nonprofit operations. AI offers a wealth of opportunity, but as Jeff points out, it's essential to adopt it thoughtfully.
“AI is completely possible in your organization, but you need to be ready for it before you start using it,” Jeff begins. Nonprofits need to assess their current processes, secure their systems, and ensure leadership and staff are aligned in their understanding of the technology.
The fascinating conversation touches on AI’s potential for streamlining time-intensive tasks, like data management, freeing staff for more strategic work. As an example, Jeff describes how robotic process automation (RPA) reduced one client’s workload by 70%, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks. Such automation, he suggests, can be a game-changer, especially for smaller organizations with limited resources.
While the fear of AI replacing jobs is a common concern, Jeff describes to host Julia Patrick, that AI, when implemented correctly, enhances productivity without diminishing the human element. It’s about improving processes, not eliminating roles.
This video treatise with Jeff, is that nonprofits, regardless of size, are encouraged to start small—perhaps with automating content creation or donor communications—and build from there. This gradual integration allows teams to see immediate benefits, reducing fears and fostering a culture of innovation. Ultimately, the key to success with AI is to “map your process” first, ensuring that you're automating well-thought-out systems rather than perpetuating inefficiencies.
Enjoy this buzzing conversation about the cutting-edge world of artificial intelligence (AI) in the nonprofit sector. The theme? Winning the Tech Game! Jeff Hensel, a tech expert from Eide Bailly, with a background at Microsoft, brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the conversation, sharing game-changing insights on how nonprofits can harness the power of AI. “At the end of the day, AI is going to become pervasive,” he says. . . . . .Whether you’re a chemist, an accountant, or a nonprofit leader, the future is clear: AI will be integrated into nearly every aspect of work. The question is, how can nonprofits stay ahead of the curve?
A key theme of this discussion, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Meico Marquette Whitlock, is the gradual, mindful implementation of AI. As Jeff describes, “It’s a process…you don’t want to go too big in terms of your scope.” He emphasizes the value of starting small, especially with manageable tasks like content generation or HR processes, to build momentum and achieve quick wins. This cautious yet proactive approach helps nonprofit organizations avoid the pitfalls of rushing into AI adoption without a solid foundation in place.
The trio also talk about the human element of technological change. Meico suggests how a successful AI integration depends heavily on people’s buy-in and engagement, saying “From a psychological perspective…it’s actually healthy in terms of being able to support long-term change,” adding that employees need to see tangible short-term results to maintain momentum and alleviate fears about AI displacing jobs. And Jeff goes on to concur, stressing that fostering a culture of trust and continuous learning is crucial for navigating the complexities of AI adoption.
Organizational success with AI lies not just in adopting the technology, but in aligning it with long-term strategic goals and ensuring strong leadership support. Jeff shares that AI should be seen as a tool to complement, not replace, human efforts, with its true potential unlocked when approached thoughtfully, with careful planning and organizational buy-in.
This is day 3 of a very insightful Nonprofit Power Week Series, with Eide Bailly, covering many important aspects of tech in nonprofits. Don’t miss any of them!
Nonprofits, like other organizations, are facing a pivotal moment where technology, particularly AI, is becoming increasingly central to operations. However, adopting new tech is not always seamless, and nonprofits often struggle to integrate these changes effectively. In this Nonprofit Power Week Day 2 episode, cohost Julia Patrick, along with Meico Marquette Whitlock, engage with Jeff Hensel, Director at Eide Bailly, in a discussion about preparing nonprofits for technological changes.
Jeff begins by describing how one of the key components for success in adopting technology, especially AI, is understanding data. He explains that AI is built on data, both structured and unstructured, and organizations must be strategic in managing this data. He says, "AI is built on data...you need a strategy for both structured and unstructured data," reinforcing that a well-thought-out data management plan is essential for leveraging AI effectively. Without this strategy, organizations risk inefficiency and even potential security issues.
This thought provoking conversation also explores the cultural barriers within organizations that may impede technological progress. Meico highlights that organizations often fail not because of the technology itself, but because of a lack of alignment and culture within the organization. He points out that having formal data systems in place is not enough if informal, disconnected systems persist—employees may still rely on their personal methods, like using Dropbox or thumb drives, which can undermine collective efforts. . . . . .reinforcing the importance of a shared vision and consistent organizational practices.
Finally, the trio talk about governance and security, reminding nonprofits that technological change is not just about adopting the newest tools but also about safeguarding data and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. As Jeff suggests, nonprofits must think holistically about technology, emphasizing the importance of governance structures that align with the organization’s long-term objectives.
the growing role of AI in the sector. Jeff Hensel, Director at Eide Bailly’s Technology Consulting Group, joins our cohosts as they examine the practical and transformative potential of AI for nonprofits. This is the first in a deep dive five-part series dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations understand how AI and technology are reshaping the sector and how to navigate this shift effectively.
Cohost Julia Patrick sets the stage with comments about the fears and uncertainties many nonprofit leaders feel about AI. Jeff responds, noting that AI, particularly generative AI, is more accessible than ever. . ... “The reality is that technology impacts every organization, and it’s not a magic wand but a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can supplement and enhance your organization’s work,”. His remarks reflect how AI is not a distant futuristic tool but an immediate reality that nonprofits must integrate into their long-term planning. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, he suggests that nonprofits approach AI like they would a new intern: "AI can add value, but it needs direction and guidance from humans to be truly effective." This synergy between human oversight and AI capabilities is where the real magic happens.
As Jeff continues, he touches on the exponential growth of AI technology, warning that nonprofits should not fall into the trap of thinking AI will solve all problems instantly. Instead, they should focus on building a strategic plan that aligns AI use with their organizational goals. By understanding the limitations and strengths of AI, nonprofits can harness it for content creation, efficiency, and more, all while ensuring they don’t overlook vital aspects like data security and governance.
This first day of Nonprofit Power Week with Eide Bailly begins the expanded in-depth series to follow. Tune in to each episode!!!
The right board involvement can demystify fundraising, turning what might seem like a daunting task into a more manageable and impactful team effort. From this lively session, expect to learn a lot about the sometimes complicated, yet critical, role of engaging nonprofit boards in fundraising, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. This discussion revolves around the vital understanding that fundraising is a "team sport," as Tony aptly puts it. Together, they focus on the theme that board members play a significant role in an organization's ability to secure and sustain funds, but often, there's confusion about what fundraising truly is—and what it’s not.
Julia strikes the early tone by sharing her personal reflections on her decades-long involvement in community fundraising and board service, describing how much she could have done differently with the right knowledge. She says, "I looked at the different decades of my life and what I could have done better, and what I did well.", reflecting the importance of continuous learning for board members to become more effective in their roles.
Tony builds on this as they go on, explaining that while many board members feel a fear of fundraising, they can still significantly contribute by playing roles that don’t involve the daunting task of asking for money. He introduces four key roles board members can adopt: the Prospector, the Cultivator, the Solicitor, and the Steward. "You can support your organization from the launching pad to landing," Tony says, which shows the flexibility in how board members can engage in the fundraising process.
Learn from this inspiring journey how innovative technology is being used to address the systemic challenges within foster care, with Dr. Jennifer Jacobs, co-founder and CEO of Connect Our Kids. She shares how they’re working to provide tools to make a difference for the lives of over 400,000 children currently in the foster care system.
An amazing series of connections. . . . . . . . Dr. Jacobs, whose background in nuclear engineering and counter-terrorism may seem unrelated to child welfare at first glance, was motivated to take action after reading about the foster care crisis. She discovered alarming parallels between the methods used to map terrorist networks and the processes that could be adapted to find families for foster children. “The foster care community does similar work with Post-it notes and Microsoft Excel,” Jacobs pointed out, highlighting the severe resource limitations faced by social workers.
Her organization's groundbreaking software helps social workers efficiently locate biological family members, strengthening critical kinship ties that can profoundly affect a child’s well-being. For example, Dr. Jacobs shares the heart-wrenching story of Kelly, a foster child who was repeatedly moved between homes. After being asked what would help her most, Kelly responded, "I want people in my life who aren't paid to be there." Using Connect Our Kids’ tools, Kelly was reunited with her biological family in just 20 minutes—a life-changing moment that allowed her to finally begin healing!!
The conversation between host Wendy Adams and Dr. Jacobs amplifies the crucial role of relationships in a child's development. Dr. Jacobs elaborates on the science behind this, commenting, “Relationships are key to the wiring of the brain,” which makes family and kinship connections indispensable for long-term emotional and mental health.
Watch this fascinating conversation and you’ll agree that while technology alone cannot solve the foster care crisis, it is an essential tool that, when paired with compassionate, skilled social workers, it can dramatically improve outcomes for children in need.
The monumental role data plays in transforming the social sector, with Adam Luecking, CEO and co-founder of Clear Impact. This discussion showcases how the right tools and mindset can empower nonprofits to create measurable, lasting impact, making it an invaluable listen for organizations striving to unlock their full potential through data.
Adam begins by outlining two key types of data that nonprofits need to focus on: population-level data, which relates to broader societal conditions, and program accountability data, which evaluates how well individual programs perform. He notes, “There’s really two types of data out there—population-level data, which is much bigger than any one program, and program-level data, which is focused on how much and how well you do something, but most importantly, whether anyone is better off from your services.”
He shares, with co-hosts Wendy Adams and Julia Patrick, that the shift toward data-driven work can create anxiety within organizations, especially smaller nonprofits that lack experience in performance reporting. Continuing, he advocates for a phased approach, encouraging organizations to start small and build their capacity over time. “Pick three to five measures and focus on whether people are better off. Start small, build your performance and data muscles, and improve as you go,” he says.
This look into working with data also touches on the importance of aligning data reporting with funder expectations. Adam points to the need for nonprofits to shift their mindset from seeing data collection as a burden to understanding it as a core part of their mission. His mantra, “Bring precision to your passion,” encapsulates the idea that combining clear data with passion-driven work leads to greater social outcomes.
You’ll watch and understand why Shannon emphasizes the importance of integrating philanthropy into every level of an organization, as she makes it clear that building such a culture is not merely the responsibility of the development team. Instead, it involves every member of the nonprofit, from board members to program staff. As Shannon puts it, "A culture of philanthropy is where everyone shares responsibility for bringing resources into the nonprofit organization." This does not mean that everyone is responsible for soliciting donations, but rather that each individual understands the role philanthropy plays in fulfilling the organization's m
Guest expert Angela Coaxum transforms the often-intimidating world of nonprofit financials into a vibrant, engaging conversation about storytelling. With her dynamic approach, Angela, a Regional Director at Your Part-Time Controller, demystifies the process of turning dry financial data into a compelling narrative that highlights the heart and soul of an organization’s mission.
From the outset, Angela sets the stage for how nonprofits can weave their financials into the bigger picture. "Storytelling isn’t about spinning a yarn, but making sure we’re getting our message across—how we’re supporting the mission," she explains. By focusing on the mission and the impact of the organization, financial reports become more than just numbers; they evolve into the story of how every dollar helps change lives. It’s a shift in perspective that makes financials feel less like a chore and more like a crucial piece of the nonprofit’s larger mission.
Angela’s infectious enthusiasm continues as she discusses the importance of making financial data visually engaging. "When you use charts and infographics, it really brings things to light," she says, "and people will tune in when it’s eye-catching." By turning numbers into visual narratives, nonprofits can grab the attention of board members, funders, and community partners—sparking conversations and deeper engagement with their financials. Imagine data that dazzles, with colorful charts that tell the story of your impact in a glance!
Collaboration also plays a starring role in this episode. Angela highlights the need for teamwork between finance, development, and marketing to craft a financial story that’s not only accurate but emotionally resonant. She encourages nonprofits to ensure that their financial reports don’t just sit in silos, but instead become part of a collective storytelling effort that shows transparency, builds trust, and makes a lasting impact.
By the end of this fast-paced episode, hosted by Julia Patrick, you’ll feel inspired to dive into your own financials with renewed energy, knowing that each number tells a part of your nonprofit’s bigger story.
“Your branding is more than a flashy logo and tagline. It’s about how your messaging connects with your community and builds trust over time.”, says Tony Beall, with cohost Julia Patrick.
Their discussion explores the holistic nature of nonprofit branding, emphasizing that a strong brand is about more than just a flashy logo or a catchy tagline—it’s about creating genuine, long-lasting trust with the community and potential investors.
Tony makes it clear that nonprofit branding must resonate deeply with the communities being served. This connection is crucial for fundraisers, who are often the face of the organization, and are on the front lines engaging with donors, investors, and community members. The conversation shines a light on the understanding that brand credibility is built not only through visuals but through the entire organizational culture, ethics, and consistent, transparent storytelling.
The two also touch on the role of internal collaboration in branding. Tony advocates for including fundraisers and frontline workers in branding decisions, as their daily interactions with the community offer invaluable insight into the organization's image and impact. The pair also highlight milestone marketing—celebrating organizational achievements like anniversaries—as a powerful way to underscore trust and show longevity and success in service.
You’ll appreciate how and why branding in the nonprofit world must be multi-dimensional, touching every part of an organization’s operations and outreach. The goal is not just to be seen but to be trusted, and that requires thoughtful, ongoing effort across all communications and actions.
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