Want to know how successful nonprofits rally communities and consistently grow their fundraising? This episode dives into exactly how you can expand your reach, inspire action, and drive donations like never before. If you're ready to transform the way your nonprofit operates, you can't miss this dynamic discussion!Welcome to episode 15 of Hey Nonprofits with your host Trevor Nelson. In this must-watch episode, Trevor is joined by special guest Dr. Ortega, a seasoned expert in nonprofit development and community engagement. Together, they explore how thriving nonprofits are able to build lasting connections, foster strong supporter bases, and generate the resources they need to grow. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, development director, or a passionate volunteer, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can use immediately to enhance your fundraising success and strengthen your organization.You’ll learn how technology and modern approaches can amplify your mission and bring tangible results. Dr. Ortega offers practical insights on leveraging storytelling to connect emotionally, using digital platforms to reach a broader audience, and fostering a sense of belonging within your community. This episode emphasizes the importance of combining clear fundraising goals with innovative solutions to make your cause stand out in today’s crowded nonprofit landscape.Trevor and Dr. Ortega also tackle common challenges like volunteer burnout and donor fatigue, offering tips to maintain work-life balance while achieving organizational objectives. This episode is all about helping nonprofit professionals not just survive but thrive in a demanding field. You'll discover proven techniques to run effective campaigns that build trust, grow community support, and ensure long-term sustainability for your organization.Get ready to evolve the way you approach fundraising, community building, and leadership. If you're searching for ways to increase donations, connect with new supporters, and make a meaningful impact as a nonprofit professional, this discussion has the insights you've been looking for. Hit play now and take the next step toward reaching your nonprofit's goals with Hey Nonprofits!Don't forget to like, share, and comment on this video. Subscribe to Hey Nonprofits for more inspiring content tailored to nonprofit professionals who are passionate about making a difference! Hosted by Trevor Nelson, featuring Dr. Ortega—this episode is your opportunity to learn from the best in the field of community building and nonprofit fundraising.✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Chapters:0:00 Building Inclusive Communities2:06 Balancing Theory and Practice6:07 Why Nonprofits Hire First8:00 Invest in Staff and Tech12:07 Board Members Must Give14:20 Focus on Your Strengths18:03 Niche Expertise Matters19:56 Grassroots Fundraising Tips23:36 Hosting Engaging Events25:32 Small Events, Big Impact29:02 Goals and Visibility Tips31:01 Using Data to Find Donors

Unlock the secret to turning event attendees into loyal monthly donors with Episode 14 of "Hey Nonprofits"! Hosted by Trevor Nelson and featuring fundraising expert Dave Raley, this episode dives into a step-by-step blueprint that nonprofits can use to create sustainable donor relationships. If you're tired of hosting events that generate one-time contributions but fail to build long-term support, this conversation is what your organization needs to hear.

In this episode, Trevor Nelson and Dave Raley explore how nonprofits can shift their fundraising strategy to maximize the value of every single event attendee. Discover the mindset, tools, and technology that transform event engagement into consistent monthly giving—and why this approach has become essential for nonprofits in 2025. From cultivating meaningful post-event communication to structuring monthly giving programs that resonate with modern donors, you'll walk away with actionable ideas designed to increase retention and build a dependable base of loyal supporters.

Dave Raley shares insights on leveraging storytelling to highlight impact, using data to understand donor motivations, and making communication feel personalized at every stage of the donor journey. Whether you're an executive director, a development coordinator, or a volunteer ready to make a bigger impact, this episode reveals how to blend practical tactics with heartfelt connection to create a strategy for sustainable growth.

Listen to real-world examples of organizations that successfully turned single-event contributors into lifelong supporters while addressing common challenges nonprofits face in maintaining donor loyalty. Also, hear about the subtle details in event follow-ups, how to use technology without losing the human touch, and what shifts are reshaping donor expectations in today’s digital age.

Don’t let your hard work on events end at the closing remarks. Discover how to engage attendees long after the event ends, and turn exciting moments into lasting impact for your nonprofit. With the tips shared in this podcast, you'll inspire deeper connections with your audience, enhance their trust, and see your donor base grow like never before.

Find Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/draley/

✈️ Do your donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:

https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇

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

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to Sustainable Fundraising Strategies

0:05 Why Monthly Donations Are Key for Long-Term Success

2:03 How the Subscription Model is Changing Donations

5:59 Expert Insights on Building Sustainable Giving Campaigns

7:54 Overcoming Challenges in Starting Monthly Giving Programs

11:44 The 75% Missed Opportunity in Recurring Donations

13:47 Using Live Events to Boost Monthly Donor Sign-Ups

17:33 Recent Campaign Success: Transforming Donors into Loyal Supporters

19:26 Treating Donors Like Investors to Build Stronger Relationships

22:50 How to Keep Donors Engaged and Subscribed

24:45 Communicating Impact to Overcome Donor Hesitations

28:30 Creating Effective and Trustworthy Recurring Donation Programs

30:22 Using Creative Program Names to Elevate Branding

33:54 Turning Event Attendees into Recurring and Legacy Donors

35:41 Building Donor Communities for Long-Lasting Support

39:21 Promoting Year-Round Philanthropy for Greater Impact

41:04 Leveraging AI and Marketing Strategies for Fundraising Growth

44:41 Identifying and Maximizing Your Organization’s Strengths

46:39 Focusing on Progress: A Unique Look at Growth in Fundraising

49:59 Why Gratitude and Communication Matter in Donor Relationships

51:35 Leveraging LinkedIn to Build Fundraising Connections and Community

Are you struggling to hit your fundraising goals? Here’s the truth: 70% of your fundraising should be done before your event even begins! In Episode 13 of the "Hey Nonprofits" podcast, hosts Trevor Nelson and Jason Ledlow break down why pre-event fundraising is crucial for nonprofit success. Learn how to engage sponsors early, use personal connections to build momentum, and secure the financial support you need—well before the big day.

This episode dives into practical strategies like leveraging existing sponsor relationships, tailoring sponsorship packages to your audience, and the power of transparency to build donor trust. As Trevor and Jason highlight, “Donors won’t give unless they feel connected—relationships matter more than you think.” You’ll also hear tips on how gratitude and recognition can foster ongoing support and ensure donors feel appreciated.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, development director, or volunteer, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your approach to nonprofit events and equip you with actionable advice to reach your fundraising goals. Tune in now to discover innovative ideas, success stories, and strategies you can start using today to make your next event a success!

This video is perfect for anyone looking to modernize their fundraising strategies, achieve better work-life balance while planning events, and connect deeply with donors. Don’t forget to leave a comment on what works for your nonprofit and subscribe to the "Hey Nonprofits" podcast for more fundraising tips and ideas!

Chapters:

0:00 Start Early for Fundraising Success

2:15 Why 70% Happens Before the Event

5:46 From Casual Gathering to Fundraising Win

7:52 Leverage Existing Sponsor Relationships

11:39 Build Donor Trust with Transparency

13:26 Turn New Donors into Loyal Supporters

16:58 Relationships Are the Key to Success

18:39 Connect Beyond Organizations

22:14 Tailor Sponsorships to Your Audience

23:55 Recognize Sponsors for Ongoing Support

27:27 Secure Sponsors with Honest Talks

29:12 Benefits of Engaging Sponsors Early

32:36 Exclusive Pre-Events Boost Interest

34:20 Drive Engagement with Exclusivity

37:46 Gratitude Builds Long-Term Support

39:35 Strengthen Connections During Events

42:53 First Impressions Matter

44:43 Creative Sponsorship Ideas

47:57 Cut Costs with Corporate Sponsors

49:41 Pre-Event Hacks for More Funds

52:59 Jason’s Sponsorship Coaching Tips

54:49 Stretch Goals to Unlock Donations

In this (reuploaded) episode of "Hey Nonprofits" Trevor Nelson talks fundraising with Lance Kawaguchi, CEO of Australia’s Cure Brain Cancer Foundation about his trek to the south pole to raise money and awareness for brain cancer research. Lance also highlights innovative funding approaches and the significance of building relationships within the nonprofit sector to maximize impact.

If you enjoyed today's podcast, please leave us a review. We would really appreciate your feedback 🙂

Timestamps:

00:00 Sports Enthusiasm

01:22 Cancer Research Initiatives

02:50 Collaboration Over Competition in Nonprofits

04:45 Personal Experiences and Empathy in Advocacy

05:04 The South Pole Trek for Cancer Awareness

07:40 Innovative Funding Approaches in Cancer Research

09:09 Building Relationships for Greater Impact

10:09 Educating and Collaborating Across Cancer Organizations

11:56 Building Relationships in Fundraising

15:39 The Emotional Toll of Fundraising

17:39 Mindsets That Get Through Challenging Times

21:00 Gratitude and Perspective in Life

23:20 Closing Thoughts

(*This is a reupload of a past podcast*)

Jason and Trevor discuss how one item can help nonprofits raise more money at their fundraising event.

Learn how to boost your live auction results with a single item, known as trips and experiences here in our world. These trip auction items allow your donors to combine their giving budget AND their travel budget to donate to your cause.

It's a win-win situation.

For more information about our trips, visit our catalog here https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Susanna Doyle from MDA talks about her approach to connecting and communicating with nonprofit donors.

💸 Need help fundraising? Find profitable auction items at https://hgafundraising.com/

🙂 Follow Susanna Doyle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susannadoyle/

Support the Muscular Dystrophy Association: mda.org

Watch the Webinar with Susanna Doyle and Amy Meyers: https://youtu.be/1IhfJlSLCvY?si=ueP3JtcKyp0ulxI3

During this episode, Susanna Doyle, Account Manager for Signature Events at MDA, shares her insights on effective fundraising strategies, emphasizing the importance of relationship building, efficiency in outreach, and the evolving landscape of donor engagement. She discusses the significance of personal touches in donor communication, the role of social media and cold calling, and the necessity of post-event follow-up to cultivate long-term relationships with donors. The conversation also highlights the unique challenges of fundraising for rare diseases and the importance of community engagement in event planning.

✈️ Do you donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to both have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item at https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Learn what action to take when your organization loses support from donors, state, or federal funding.

💸 Need help fundraising? Find profitable auction items here https://hgafundraising.com/

In this conversation, Trevor Nelson and Jason Ledlow discuss the concept of 'paralysis by analysis' and how overthinking can hinder decision-making and action, particularly in the nonprofit sector. They emphasize the importance of simplifying processes, making efficient decisions, and proactively addressing funding challenges. The discussion also highlights the need for nonprofits to build strong relationships with stakeholders and have contingency plans in place to ensure sustainability and adaptability in the face of funding uncertainties.

Timestamps:

00:00 Episode preview

01:17 Paralysis by analysis

02:17 Instead of cutting expenses, focus on replacing

04:02 What's the first step?

05:26 Most Profitable Auction Items

06:14 Taking action: Don't overthink it

08:08 Putting a plan in place

10:22 Getting funding back in 2025

11:55 When your first instinct is to hire...

13:58 Free nonprofit coaching

✈️ Do you donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to both have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit!

Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:

https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Need help with fundraising? We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇

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

This data can help nonprofits learn what matters most to donors, allowing organizations to grow and Raise More Money.

💸 Need help fundraising? Find profitable auction items here https://hgafundraising.com/

Read OneCause's Giving Experience Study yourself!

https://discover.onecause.com/rs/527-FNH-344/images/OneCause-Giving-Experience-Study-2024-EB.pdf?version=2

In this episode, Trevor Nelson engages with Karrie Wozniak and Sarah Sebastian from One Cause to discuss the importance of organizational culture, the insights from the Giving Experience Study, and effective strategies for donor engagement and retention. They explore how a supportive work environment contributes to employee retention, the evolving landscape of donor behavior, and the significance of building community through fundraising events. The discussion emphasizes the need for ease in the donation process and the importance of thanking donors to foster long-term relationships.

😄 Keep up to date with what OneCause is accomplishing:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/onecause/

👉 Follow Karrie Wozniak on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karriewozniak/

👉 Follow Sarah Sebastian on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-s-b3533614/

Timestamps:

00:00 Episode Preview

00:34 Meet Sarah and Karrie from OneCause

01:53 Organizational Culture and Employee Retention

06:12 The Origin of The Giving Experience Study

08:55 Understanding Auction Donors and Their Loyalty

12:58 The Power of Community & Inclusivity

17:26 Simplifying the Process to Increase Donations

20:42 How Responding With “Thank You” Boosts Donations

24:31 Building Better Donor Relationships

28:20 Fundraising is hard… Don’t make it more difficult by doing what?

30:43 Where to find Sarah and Karrie from OneCause

✈️ Do you donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to both have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:

https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Need help with fundraising?

We offer FREE non-profit coaching 👇https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

About Karrie Wozniak

Karrie brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing, brand strategy, advertising, and sales to her role as Chief Marketing Officer at OneCause. She has played a key role in building and leading the company, driving overall growth strategies, sales leadership, event consulting, customer success, and marketing direction. Her decade-plus commitment to nonprofit fundraising and driving innovation in the sector make Karrie a sought-after speaker, industry thought leader, and blog contributor.

About Sarah Sebastian

Sarah Sebastian is the Director of Corporate Communications at OneCause, a fundraising software company. She oversees the company’s research studies and co-chairs the Raise conference programming committee. With a decade of experience in nonprofit technology, Sarah is passionate about creating content that empowers nonprofits to take action using the latest data and insights.

What questions to ask when procuring or receiving donated auction items for your fundraising event.

💸 Need coaching? Jason can help you level-up your fundraising game FREE https://calendly.com/hgagroup/coaching

Follow our LinkedIn page to get updates and recaps of each episode! https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money

In this episode, Trevor and Jason discuss the importance of asking the right questions in fundraising, particularly when it comes to auction items and donations. They emphasize the need to evaluate the desirability and profitability of items, as well as the importance of understanding donor expectations and creating a structured process for fulfilling donations. The discussion highlights various scenarios and examples to illustrate the key points, ultimately stressing that effective fundraising relies on thorough preparation and communication.

✈️ Do you donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to both have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips:https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Learn why overlapping fundraising events within your community is not a big deal... That is, unless you didn't prepare effectively.

💸 Need coaching? Jason can help you level-up your fundraising game FREE https://calendly.com/hgagroup/coaching

In this episode, Trevor and Jason discuss the challenges and strategies involved in organizing community fundraising events, particularly when faced with competition from other events. They emphasize the importance of pre-event fundraising, building relationships with donors, and maintaining a gratitude-focused approach to donor engagement. The discussion also touches on the collaborative potential among nonprofits and the psychology behind effective donor communication.

✈️ Do you donors like to travel? Allow them to spend their travel budgets to both have a great vacation, AND fund your nonprofit! Reserve an item here https://hgafundraising.com/

💡 Sign up to our newsletter to receive weekly fundraising tips: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

00:50 Should You Worry About Overlapping Events?

03:13 Pre-Event Fundraising

04:46 When Should Event Planning Start?

11:47 Nonprofit Collaboration

16:50 Gratitude Calls