Welcome to the first podcast of 2025! Starting a new year can feel like both a blank slate and a daunting challenge—especially when your fundraising total resets to zero. But don’t worry, fundraiser, we’ve got you covered.

In this episode, we break down how to approach your annual fundraising goals with clarity, strategy, and confidence. You’ll learn:

1. How to divide your big fundraising goal into actionable quarterly milestones.
2. The importance of maintaining a prospect list full of ready-to-close donors.
3. How to build work-back plans for each prospect to keep you on track.
4. How to account for life’s distractions, from gala season to vacation time.
5. Why quarterly reviews are critical to staying proactive and hitting your targets.

Whether your fiscal year aligns with the calendar or not, this episode is packed with tips and tricks to help you tackle your goals head-on and stay flexible as life happens.

Resources Mentioned:

• Download your FREE Major Gift Fundraising Planner here

Got a big fundraising goal for 2025? Let’s tackle it together! Listen to the full episode, and don’t forget to share this podcast with a fellow fundraiser who could use a motivational boost.

Major Donor Meeting Mastery:

If you want to lean in to how to set yourself up for getting to the ask quicker and having deeper relationships, check out this $47 masterclass.

Subscribe & Follow:

• If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Hey Fundraiser! podcast so you never miss an episode.
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Connect with Mary:

• Website: www.heyfundraiser.com
• Email: [email protected]

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Stop having “nice meetings” that go nowhere. If you want meetings that end with momentum (next step + timeline + clarity), start here:

🔥 Major Donor Meeting Mastery — my step-by-step system for better donor meetings.
📘 Mary's book — grab the framework and major gift ask scripts.
🎥 Momentum Webinar — learn the core strategy in one sitting.

💻 Connect with Mary Petersen

• Website: www.heyfundraiser.com
• YouTube: @heyfundraisers
• Instagram: @heyfundraiser
• LinkedIn: Mary Petersen
• Email: [email protected]