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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

The $25 Donor Experience Experiment! [Video]

Our host welcomes James Goalder, the Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, to discuss an intriguing topic: the $25 donor experience experiment. The experiment aimed to explore how nonprofit organizations interact with donors who make small $25 donations. The conversation highlights the importance of providing a positive donor experience to retain and engage supporters, offering insights and actionable recommendations for NPO’s and NGO’s to enhance their donor interactions. James begins by explaining the research was initiated by a friend and colleague, who used to donate $25 to various organizations and track their responses. James decided to conduct a similar experiment but focused on national accounts, including Feeding America, Humane Society, Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, Free Clinics, and Meals on Wheels. The experiment involved James donating $25 to 50 organizations in each category, across all states. He assessed the online donation process, including the ease of finding the donate button and the functionality of the donation forms. After donating, he evaluated the thank-you process, which led to several noteworthy findings. James revealed that the donor experiences varied significantly among organizations. Some had streamlined and user-friendly processes, while others had broken links and frustrating experiences. He emphasized the importance of organizations reviewing their online donation process from a donor’s perspective and fixing any issues. One significant discovery was that only 10% of organizations offered payment options other than credit cards, such as ACH bank draft, Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or Venmo. James highlighted the importance of diversifying payment options to accommodate donors who may not have credit cards. Furthermore, James discussed the impact of landing pages after donations. About 58% of organizations redirected donors to third-party pages, which can be disorienting and reduce the chances of engagement. James stressed the value of keeping donors on the organization’s website after a donation, making it easy for them to explore further. Regarding post-donation engagement, James found that less than 1% of organizations followed up with invitations to volunteer or attend events. He suggested that organizations should take advantage of these opportunities to engage and retain donors. In terms of thanking donors, James observed that less than 20% of organizations sent hard copy thank-you letters. He encouraged organizations to implement a purposeful and diverse communication strategy, involving emails, personalized messages, and thank-you phone calls. Finally, James recommends that organizations periodically review their donor communication cadence and seek feedback from donors to improve their processes. He emphasizes that this evaluation should happen whenever new technology tools are introduced or at least on an annual basis.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Social Connections And Discourse In The Nonprofit Sector [Video]

You’ll love watching and learning from this inspiring and enlightening conversation on the power of social connections and discourse within the nonprofit sector. In this captivating interview, our co-hosts sit down with Jared Seide, the Executive Director of the Center for Council, a transformative organization dedicated to building communities through authentic communication and compassionate engagement.Amidst the frenetic pace of the nonprofit world, Jared Seide shares his profound insights on the importance of finding common ground, fostering a sense of belonging, and addressing the pervasive epidemic of loneliness and isolation. He also offers a glimpse into the core of his organization’s mission, which involves teaching individuals, organizations, and communities to establish structures of connection through the practice of Council.Jared’s perspective transcends borders, as he highlights how Center for Council’s impact spans from Los Angeles to Rwanda and Bosnia Herzegovina, connecting diverse communities across the globe. He emphasizes the pivotal role that vulnerability and shared experience play in creating trust, empathy, and collaboration, both within teams and across generational divides.As we navigate the challenges of an increasingly polarized world, Jared Seide offers a profound message of unity, highlighting the ways in which Council fosters a safe space for authentic conversation and the discovery of shared values. By exploring the deep-rooted impact of loneliness on mental and physical health, he reveals the urgency of reclaiming genuine connections to enhance well-being.Throughout this interview, Jared Seide’s insights resonate as a beacon of hope for nonprofit organizations seeking to transform their communities through meaningful dialogue, compassion, and the unifying force of shared purpose. Join us in this enlightening conversation that empowers nonprofit leaders and changemakers to embrace vulnerability, build bridges, and create a world where social connections flourish.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Nonprofit’s Questions Of The Week [Video]

Our guest co-host for today’s Ask and Answered Show is Hannah Berger CFRE, a seasoned professional in the nonprofit sector. Hannah is not only a trainer at Fundraising Academy, National University, but also the President of the Philanthropy Coach. She brings more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit field to the table.In this episode, we discuss a range of topics:The Value of Designations: Hannah shares her journey and insights about the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) designation. She talks about how the CFRE designation can be a significant door-opener and a third-party validation of a fundraiser’s expertise. Hannah emphasizes that it’s not just about the designation but the experience and knowledge it represents.Wealth Screening Tools: We explore the pros and cons of using wealth screening digital tools. Hannah and Jarrett discuss when it’s appropriate to invest in such tools, considering the stage and sophistication of your fundraising efforts. They also stress the importance of personal connections and understanding donors beyond wealth indicators.Speaking at Community Groups: The hosts address the concern of a nonprofit professional who is leaving their organization after submitting a proposal to speak at a national conference. They highlight the importance of open communication with conference organizers and how one’s expertise and presentation quality matter more than their current job title.Engaging with Service Clubs: The hosts tackle the dilemma of whether it’s valuable to send leadership to speak at service clubs like Rotary and Kiwanis. They underscore the benefits of networking with civic-minded communities, fostering relationships, and expanding your nonprofit’s reach.This Ask & Answer episode is packed with practical advice, personal experiences, and insightful perspectives from Hanna Berger and Jarrett Ransom. Tune in and you’ll gain valuable knowledge that can elevate your nonprofit management and fundraising efforts.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Is Your Nonprofit Digitally Inclusive? [Video]

This lively discussion centers around the crucial need for nonprofits to embrace technology and ensure digital accessibility for all, particularly individuals with disabilities. The conversation steps deep into the complexities of digital inclusivity, shedding light on various aspects, challenges, and ways to address them.The conversation commences with Ellen Owens-Karcsay, from KarcsayGroup.com, elaborating on the concept of digital accessibility and its significance, particularly during a time when organizations are rapidly adopting digital solutions without adequately considering accessibility for individuals with disabilities.Addressing the question of how people with disabilities use technology, Ellen provides comprehensive insights into the various ways individuals with disabilities access technology, including screen readers, screen magnifiers, specialized mouse or keyboard devices, and more. She emphasizes the importance of website and application coding to ensure compatibility with assistive technologies. The discussion continues with an exploration of the three primary concerns regarding digital accessibility: 1. Business case 2. legal compliance 3. brand equity, and Ellen underscores that organizations should consider the broad impact on their business, the legal implications, and the importance of building equity, and an inclusive brand.The conversation touches on the roles of organizations like the American Foundation for the Blind and the National Council for Independent Living in advocating for digital accessibility.Questions arise about timelines for implementation and funding opportunities for digital accessibility initiatives. Ellen Owens-Karcsay emphasizes that organizations should educate themselves about digital accessibility and integrate it into their day-to-day processes. Regarding funding, she notes that although funding opportunities exist, digital accessibility is often an overlooked component in proposals. However, she believes that increasing awareness and advocacy can lead to more funding allocations for digital inclusivity efforts.The conversation wraps up with a discussion on the federal government’s role in digital accessibility and the potential for funders to become champions of this cause once they become aware of its importance.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

The Fundraiser’s Mindset! [Video]

We’re diving deep into a conversation about the mindset of nonprofit fundraisers. This discussion isn’t just about fundraising; it’s about instilling a powerful mindset that transforms challenges into opportunities. From the personal stories to the practical insights, Sam Alpert, President of BearFruit.co, and Julia Patrick guide us on a journey that redefines how we approach nonprofit fundraising.Julia kicks things off by highlighting the unique challenges in the nonprofit space, and how mindset plays a pivotal role in maintaining self-care amidst the chaos. Sam Alpert talks about the culmination of his experiences in Bear Fruit, where he focuses on grant writing, marketing strategies, and donor research to empower nonprofits to make a greater impact.The conversation takes insightful turns as Sam discusses the alignment of vision and execution in the nonprofit space. He emphasizes the importance of processes and detail-oriented approaches, supported by a well-rounded team with diverse skill sets. Sam acknowledges that change and adaptability are key to staying afloat in the constantly evolving landscape.Sam’s wisdom shines bright as he talks about the long-term mindset. He urges us to remember the depth of impact that nonprofits can have and how the road to success is built on relationships, patience, and persistence.As the conversation deepens, Sam reflects on the changing nature of nonprofits, highlighting how the pandemic has accelerated the need for flexibility and innovation. He advocates for an abundance mindset and a shift away from the scarcity mentality that has often plagued the sector. He emphasizes the reciprocal nature of relationships, making it clear that fundraising isn’t just about money, but about making meaningful connections and changing lives.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Nonprofit’s Communications Best Strategies! [Video]

In this lively and informative Show, communications strategist Nickelina Noel shares her expertise on creating a robust communication strategy for nonprofits. The discussion delves into five essential tips that nonprofits can use to improve their communication efforts.Noel starts by emphasizing the importance of setting measurable objectives for a communication strategy. She defines a communication strategy as a comprehensive outline of outcomes an organization aims to achieve. To create these objectives, she suggests using the “5W’s” approach (Who, What, When, Where, and Why) commonly used by journalists to answer crucial questions about the target audience, message, timing, channels, and purpose. Additionally, Noel introduces the concept of “SMART” objectives, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.The next tip centers around identifying the target audience. Noel highlights the need to create audience profiles based on factors like donor segments, volunteers, advocates, and corporate partners. By understanding their preferences and behavior, nonprofits can better tailor their messages to resonate with different groups effectively.Crafting compelling messages comes next on the agenda. Noel explains that messages should be clear, consistent, and reinforce the organization’s mission and values. Tailoring messages to different audiences allows nonprofits to engage effectively with their diverse stakeholders.Moving on to the channels, Noel recommends a mix of traditional and digital platforms. Nonprofits should consider their target audience’s preferences and behaviors when choosing channels for communication. Measuring engagement rates on various platforms, such as social media and email marketing, can help fine-tune the strategy.The Show concludes with a discussion of the importance of regularly measuring and fine-tuning the communication strategy. Noel emphasizes the significance of monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) beyond just fundraising goals. By identifying what works and what needs improvement, nonprofits can continuously adapt and improve their communication efforts.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Crisis Communications For Nonprofits [Video]

Lauri Hennessy, the Pacific Northwest Executive Director of One Love, a national foundation focused on promoting healthy relationships, discusses crisis communication and the importance of being prepared for potential crises in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the need for preparedness, transparency, and proactive communication to maintain trust and effectively manage crises. With a well-developed crisis communication plan and a focus on building relationships with stakeholders and the media, nonprofits can navigate crises successfully and emerge stronger.Lauri emphasizes that crises are not a matter of “if,” but “when.” Every organization will face a crisis at some point, and it is crucial to have a plan in place to handle it effectively. She highlights the need for transparency and proactive communication during times of duress, as crises can erode public trust and support for an organization. The primary goal of crisis communication is issuing a sincere and timely apology. Lauri stresses the importance of 1) apologizing quickly, 2) taking accountability, and 3) outlining the steps the organization will take to rectify the situation or prevent it from happening again.The interview also covers the significance of the internal audience in crisis communication. Lauri believes that the internal audience, including staff, board members, and volunteers, is the most critical during a crisis. Their support and advocacy are instrumental in mitigating damage and maintaining public trust.The discussion continues with a focus on key stakeholders, such as funders, donors, government contractors, and elected officials and how to create a matrix that outlines these stakeholders and their priorities, ensuring that communication efforts are targeted and well-coordinated. Lauri recommends developing a detailed plan with different scenarios, including the matrix that maps out the timing and methods of communication for various audiences. She emphasizes the need for fast and accurate responses in the age of social media, where information spreads rapidly.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Being An Influencer In The Nonprofit Sector [Video]

The Nonprofit Show host Julia Patrick, interviews Rafi Norberg, the President of Nexus Marketing, about the importance of becoming an industry influencer in the nonprofit sector. Rafi, who leads a digital marketing agency specializing in reaching mission-driven audiences, underscores the significance of influencers in the nonprofit sector. By building partnerships with influencers and utilizing various digital platforms, nonprofits can enhance their reach, gain valuable insights, and amplify their impact. Becoming an industry influencer allows individuals to contribute to their organization’s mission while also nurturing their professional growth. Ultimately, leveraging influencerRafi begins by explaining the core focus of Nexus Marketing, which is to help businesses reach nonprofit professionals, associations, and educational groups through digital marketing strategies. To accomplish this, the agency dedicates a significant amount of time to understanding the different mission-driven markets and connecting with influencers within those markets. By identifying win-win opportunities between influencers and brands, Nexus Marketing has built a vast network of influencers that they work with to support their clients’ goals and increase exposure.The discussion then jumps into the value of influencers for both nonprofits and individuals. From an organizational standpoint, influencers offer a refreshing alternative to traditional institutional channels. In the past, nonprofits primarily relied on a handful of publications or conferences featuring speakers from large, well-funded organizations. However, with the rise of influencers, there is now a broader range of voices and perspectives available. Nonprofits can learn from influencers who represent different organization sizes, causes, and backgrounds, gaining insights into various challenges, successes, and trends within the nonprofit sector.Rafi emphasizes that finding influencers whose advice resonates with an organization can be a valuable source of learning and inspiration for both leaders and employees. Additionally, tuning in to influencers’ content can serve as a professional development tool, enabling individuals to build their own audience and personal brand outside of their organization.As the conversation shifts to platforms where influencers are active, Rafi acknowledges the enduring relevance of traditional channels. These avenues continue to be important for gaining exposure and sharing expertise. However, he highlights the emergence of new media platforms, particularly podcasts and webinars, that cater specifically to the nonprofit sector. Rafi mentions “The Nonprofit Show” as an example, (Thank you Rafi!) where industry experts are invited to share their unique perspectives and engage with a wide audience. Leveraging these new media platforms provides nonprofits and individuals with opportunities to amplify their messages, connect with like-minded individuals, and establish themselves as thought leaders.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #socialimpact

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Resources for Nonprofit Directors

Transitioning Affinity Into Philanthropy! [Video]

Lashonda Williams, as the Associate Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving at South Texas College of Law Houston, describes the significance of building relationships with students during their academic journey, the role of stewardship through affiliation in fostering alumni philanthropy, and the long-term benefits of engaging alumni beyond graduation. LaShonda highlights the significance of maintaining communication with students during their time at the school and mentions the successful implementation of a student giving day and senior gift challenge to encourage philanthropy among students. She also shares the value of stewardship by connecting scholarship recipients with their donors, creating meaningful experiences, and cultivating relationships that extend beyond graduation..LaShonda further explains that fostering student engagement is the foundation for building a productive alumni donor base. She mentions the role of student organizations and individual connections in the philanthropic space. LaShonda emphasizes the importance of making students aware of the significance of philanthropy and how it supports their education. She discusses the impact of scholarships and the need to connect scholarship recipients with their donors to foster stewardship, gratitude, and mentorship.LaShonda mentions the importance of starting the alumni relationship while students are still attending the institution and collecting updated contact information. She suggests delivering alumni SWAG as a recognition of their first gift and other ways to create opportunities for alumni to provide feedback on their priorities and interests. The hosts, Julia Patrick and Jarrett Ransom, also give a “Tip of the Hat” to the South Texas College of Law’s centennial celebration and the achievement of reaching 100 years as the oldest law school in Texas.You can also listen to the show on your favorite podcast channel. Additionally, the American Nonprofit Academy provides news, inspiration, and training for the nonprofit and social impact community.#fundraising #nonprofit #universities

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Grant Writing for Non-Profits

How to write grants using Chat GPT [Video]

In this episode, I dive into how to use Chat GPT to write grants. Nonprofit founders and executive directors are best positioned to win funding for their mission and now it’s easier than ever leveraging AI,Get your free one-pager at http://www.forpurposelive.com/pagePRACTICAL AND APPROACHABLE NONPROFIT STRATEGY THAT HELPS ORGANIZATIONS GET CLEAR, GET FOCUSED, and GET FUNDING SO THEY CAN BE IMPACTFUL without being overwhelmed by all the traditional nonprofit advice. Nonprofits don’t have to be grueling and Executive Directors shouldn’t be constantly exhausted. It takes courage to step out in faith and follow a calling and I believe the world needs the solution your nonprofit offers. Running a thriving nonprofit takes leadership, strategy, program evaluation and intentional fundraising but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Everything you do can be maximized and leveraged to accomplish your mission in one solid, cohesive way. Stop working for a nonprofit and start working For Purpose, On Purpose.***********************************************************************HELPFUL TOOLS & RESOURCES 💰 FREE FUNDING ONE PAGER TEMPLATE: https://www.forpurposelive.com/page📄 5-Day Grant Mastery course: https://www.forpurposelive.com/grant-course🏁 STRATEGIC PLANNING REINVENTED – IMPACT ROADMAP: https://www.forpurposelive.com/impact🤪 STOP WEARING ALL THE HATS – Nonprofit to FOR PURPOSE transformation program: https://www.forpurposelive.com/waitlist➡️ FREE LOGIC MODEL TEMPLATE: https://www.forpurposelive.com/logic#️⃣ METRICS THAT MATTER WORKSHEET: https://www.forpurposelive.com/metrics📅 NONPROFIT COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: https://www.forpurposelive.com/calendar ***********************************************************************Come say hi on social: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@forpurposelive Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forpurposelive#nonprofit #nonprofitleadership #nonprofitstrategy #impactNOTE Know that this description may contain affiliate links to help you easily find the tools, products, programs, and/or services mentioned in the video. Self Leadership Global may earn minimal sums by recommending and sharing links for various helpful tools, products, services, and programs. When the viewer uses the links provided the minimal commission we receive is of no cost to you and is greatly appreciated because it supports the channel! In saying that, the viewer is in no way obligated to use the provided links. Thank you for your ongoing support!*** For Purpose Live provides resources for educational purposes only. In saying that, results may vary. For Purpose Live encourages viewers to do their homework before taking any strategic action on the resources recommended or before purchasing any of For Purpose Live products, programs, or services.