Erik Daubert discusses the decline in smaller donors and the continued reliance on major donors in traditional philanthropy, with a decline in donor retention rates and a concerning dependency quotient. He emphasizes the need to focus on new donor acquisition and overall retention, while building good foundational donor bases and annual campaigns. Daubert also highlights the importance of thanking donors personally and sincerely, reporting back on how their donations are being used, and recognizing the value of smaller gifts and donors.

He discusses the potential of small donors to eventually rise into wealth and the opportunity of legacy giving for wealth transformation. While the fourth quarter data is a concern, there are still effective ways to raise funds with an abundance mentality, which can be learned through courses and training offered by organizations such as The Fundraising School.