What does it really mean to be a hero in fundraising?

After nearly 30 years working alongside major gift officers, executive directors, and nonprofit leaders, I've learned this: our sector's greatest challenges—poverty, injustice, inequality—are simply too big for any one person to solve alone.

That's why this week feels so special. I'm celebrating the official release of my new book, Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact, with a brand-new podcast episode that dives deep into human-centered fundraising—where donor-centered and community-centered approaches finally unite.

In this episode, I share the story behind the book, including my transformative work with The Children's Center in Detroit (where we tripled philanthropic revenue while centering dignity and partnership), plus practical strategies you can implement immediately to:

• Blend fundraising models without losing your mission
• Build diverse, collaborative teams that reflect your community
• Navigate power imbalances with courage and transparency
• Reduce burnout while increasing impact

Here's the question I kept wrestling with before writing this book: How can we honor both the generosity of our donors AND the wisdom of our communities, bringing every voice to the table without compromising what matters most?

If you've ever felt torn between fundraising philosophies, exhausted by the pressure to "go it alone," or frustrated by division in our sector, this episode is for you.

Listen now and discover why the future of fundraising belongs to all of us, side by side. Then share it with your team, your board, and anyone who believes in transforming generosity into lasting impact.

Let's reclaim what it means to be everyday heroes. Together. 🚀

Today isn’t just a milestone, it’s the launchpad. If “Calling All Heroes” resonates with your experience, your hopes, and your frustrations, I invite you to grab your copy right now at https://www.callingallheroesbook.com/. Need extra copies for your team, chapter, or conference? Ordering in bulk—at a discount of course—is simple at the same link.

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