Are nonprofits losing donor trust faster than ever? In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with Jena Lynch, Donorbox’s Education & Community Engagement Manager, to tackle one of the biggest challenges nonprofits face today: credibility. With decreasing donor retention and growing skepticism, how can your nonprofit stand out as trustworthy, authentic, and effective?

Jena shares actionable strategies to rebuild trust with donors by focusing on authentic communication, meaningful gratitude, and creating frictionless giving experiences. Learn why first-time donors rarely return, how shifting communication methods can make a lasting impact, and why heartfelt appreciation matters more than automated emails. As demand for nonprofit services grows and funding sources tighten, this discussion highlights the tools and mindset shifts nonprofit leaders need to strengthen relationships and succeed in today’s landscape.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Follow Jena on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenaatdonorbox/

Check out The Nonprofit Podcast, hosted by Jena: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nonprofit-podcast/id1483848924

Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌

0:00 Why Gratitude Builds Trust and Drives Donations  

2:01 Best Tools and Tips for Emerging Nonprofits  

3:40 Why Emotional Connections Win Over Donor Hearts  

5:38 Frictionless Giving: Make Donations Simple and Quick  

6:56 Secrets to Retaining Donors and Growing Trust  

7:31 The Power of Convenience in Donation Processes  

8:45 4 Must-Know Strategies for Donor Engagement  

11:24 How to Keep Donors Coming Back Year After Year  

13:12 Building Strong Donor Bonds with the 4 S’s Framework  

16:55 Saying Thank You: Go Beyond the Tax Receipt  

18:46 The Magic of Showing Gratitude with Personal Touches  

21:57 Personalized Videos: The Key to Donor Love  

23:33 Authentic Communication That Inspires Giving  

26:42 How Trust and Authenticity Transform Nonprofits  

28:18 Connection Tips for Tough Times in Fundraising  

31:22 In-Person Events: A Game-Changer for Nonprofits  

33:00 Creating Meaningful Connections Face-to-Face  

36:07 How to Level Up Nonprofit Events for Major Gifts  

37:49 Seamless Ticketing and Donations at Your Events  

41:12 Time Blocking Hacks to Boost Nonprofit Productivity  

42:50 Free Resources for Smarter Fundraising Strategies