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In this inspiring episode of Act to Impact, host Brandi DeVries sits down with Roger Devine: co-founder of NorthWorld and the force behind the award-winning SchoolAuction.net platform.
Roger brings his years of software and nonprofit experience, having personally chaired more than 30 fundraising auctions and supported thousands of organizations—from PTAs to churches to grassroots nonprofits seeking to make a difference. He shares how community-driven fundraising works, what truly grows donor engagement over time, and why events are still one of the most powerful tools nonprofits have for connection and impact.
From building schools in rural Cambodia to helping small PTAs double or triple their fundraising success, Roger reveals the strategies, mindsets, and systems that help ordinary people lead extraordinary change.
This episode is filled with practical wisdom, heartfelt stories, and a powerful reminder: impact begins right where you live, with the people you know, taking the next small step.
✔️ Key Takeaways
- Community impact grows from small, local organizations like PTAs, rotary clubs, and churches.
- Fundraising events thrive when they prioritize guest experience, efficiency, and emotional connection.
- Economic uncertainty affects giving—making creativity and clear mission alignment even more important.
- SchoolAuction.net helps nonprofits streamline events and grow from $6K → $25K → $50K+ over time.
- Volunteer-run events often lack experience; the right tools and compassionate support make success possible.
- Events are more than fundraisers—they build community, grow donor bases, and create lasting culture.
- Impact doesn’t require the biggest platform or budget; it starts with showing up and taking action.
- Roger’s team is mission-driven: putting people and community before profit.
- Fundraising innovation continues to evolve as younger generations bring fresh ideas to events.
- No matter your skills or background—everyone has something valuable to offer their community.
📣 Call to Action
If this episode inspired you, help us spread the impact!
👉 Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
👉 Comment on YouTube to let us know your biggest takeaway from Roger’s story.
And if your organization hosts fundraising events, visit SchoolAuction.net to learn how Roger’s team can help you level up your impact.
💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF!
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Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and Mrs. Minnesota International 2025.
Thank you to guest Roger Devine. Contact Roger at [email protected] with questions.
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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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