Ready to pour rocket fuel on your major gift efforts? Major Gift Momentum is the solution. Check it out here!

Welcome back, fundraiser! In this episode, we're tackling one of the most head-scratching (and heart-sinking) experiences in major gift fundraising: donor silence.

Ever had a warm, engaged prospect suddenly vanish into the abyss of unread emails and unreturned voicemails? You're not alone—and you're definitely not doing anything wrong.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why donors really go silent (hint: it’s usually not personal)
• What not to say when following up (no guilt trips allowed)
•  What to say instead—4 proven re-engagement templates
• How to restart the conversation with confidence (even after 6 months)
• When to “bless and release” a prospect and protect your energy

Plus, I’m sharing my 3-touch outreach method and what to do when a donor ghosts you again after reconnecting.

🎯 Key Takeaway: Donor silence isn’t a door closing—it’s a pause. And you get to decide when (and how) to press play again.

🔁 If this episode helped, follow the podcast, leave a review, and share with a colleague who’s currently being ghosted!

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]