What does it take to build a nonprofit board that doesn’t just exist—but actually works?

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with nonprofit strategist and board leader Chris Wong to explore how to cultivate a well-functioning, accountable board. Together, they unpack the most common missteps organizations make when bringing on board members—and how to avoid them.

From onboarding and expectations to diversity, fundraising, and engagement, Chris shares hard-earned insights and practical strategies to help boards step into their full potential. Whether you're an executive director, board chair, or someone who’s ever wondered “why am I on this board?”, this conversation is a must-listen.

Well-functioning boards don’t happen by accident. They require structure, expectations, and thoughtful onboarding.

Diversity isn’t just identity—it’s experience, skill set, and perspective. The best boards are a mix of voices and strengths.

Fundraising doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable. It’s about connecting people to mission, not just making asks.

Clarity prevents burnout. Knowing your role, responsibilities, and limits as a board member is critical to performance and morale.

A silent board member is a missed opportunity. Great facilitation ensures everyone contributes—not just the loudest voices.

BoardSource: Tools and insights for nonprofit boards

Chris Wong on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc/

Rick Peck: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com/

Catch this and other episodes of Money to Give wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to leave a review and share it with your network.

#MoneyToGive #NonprofitLeadership #BoardGovernance #FundraisingStrategy #BoardDevelopment #DiversityInBoards #NonprofitBoards #MissionDrivenLeadership #BoardOnboarding #Philanthropy

In this inspiring episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Jason Ellinger, co-founder of Beard and Bowler, to explore how storytelling can transform the way nonprofits connect with their audiences—and ultimately, how they inspire action.

Jason shares his personal journey from covering tragic news stories as a photojournalist to founding a storytelling agency focused on positive, life-changing narratives. Through real-world examples and a behind-the-scenes look at their proven framework, Jason breaks down the essential ingredients of powerful nonprofit storytelling—and why following the right structure matters more than ever in today's world of information overload.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or marketer, this episode will change the way you think about how your story is told—and why getting it right can make all the difference.

• Beard and Bowler Website

Don’t miss upcoming episodes of Money to Give!

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#MoneyToGive #Storytelling #NonprofitLeadership #VideoMarketing #Philanthropy #StoryBrand #DonorEngagement #BeardAndBowler #FundraisingStrategy #ImpactStorytelling

Episode Overview

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Rick sits down with Alex Ellis, a service coordinator at Upper Valley Haven, to discuss the growing crises of housing and food insecurity in Vermont and New Hampshire. With deep compassion and practical insight, Alex shares stories from the frontlines, highlighting the real-life challenges people face—and the often unseen systems that keep them from getting back on their feet.

From rising housing costs and no-cause evictions to emotional barriers like shame and fear, Alex paints a vivid picture of what it means to be vulnerable—and what it takes to rebuild stability and dignity. They also discuss the Haven’s new initiative, the 608 Center, a first-of-its-kind resource hub designed to streamline services and offer hope for people experiencing crisis.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Resources & Links:

🔗 Upper Valley Haven: https://www.uppervalleyhaven.org
📣 Support the 608 Center Campaign: Learn how you can contribute to the Haven’s newest initiative to centralize care and provide a one-stop support center.
📬 Need Help or Want to Refer Someone? The Haven offers walk-in hours, phone, email, and online support options.

Share & Subscribe

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about building more compassionate communities.

➡️ Follow us on LinkedIn, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.
 🎧 Listen to all episodes of Money to Give at: https://feeds.transistor.fm/money-to-give

🎙 Episode Summary
What if real estate investing could be more than just wealth accumulation? What if it could also be a powerful vehicle for philanthropy and legacy building? In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck sits down with Ben Reinberg, a commercial real estate expert and CEO of Alliance, to discuss hard assets, smart investing, and using wealth for impact.

Ben discusses his upcoming book, Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times, a transformative guide that helps individuals build generational wealth through strategic real estate investing while also leveraging assets for charitable giving. If you’re looking for a holistic approach to wealth creation, from financial growth to philanthropy, this episode is for you.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✔️ The Fundamentals of Real Estate Investing – Key principles every investor needs to know
✔️ Avoiding Common Investment Pitfalls – How to mitigate risks in commercial real estate
✔️ Hard Assets vs. Cash Investments – Why real estate is a game-changer for wealth creation
✔️ The Power of Holding & Long-Term Strategy – How to navigate market fluctuations
✔️ Building Generational Wealth – Steps to creating an enduring financial legacy
✔️ Using Real Estate for Philanthropy – How high-net-worth individuals can integrate giving into their investment strategy
✔️ The Hard Asset Empire Blueprint – Ben’s approach to financial freedom, asset protection, and smart investing
✔️ Balancing Wealth & Well-Being – The mindset shifts needed to succeed in real estate investing

About Our Guest:

🔹 Ben Reinberg is the CEO of Alliance, a leading real estate investment firm specializing in commercial properties. With over 30 years in the industry, Ben has built a multi-million-dollar portfolio and has become a recognized authority in strategic investing.

🔹 Author of Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times – His latest book provides a step-by-step guide for individuals looking to build wealth through real estate and create a financial legacy.

🔹 Philanthropic Approach to Wealth – Ben advocates for using real estate profits to give back, emphasizing the untapped potential of donating hard assets.

Take Action:

👉 Start Investing in Hard Assets – Learn the fundamentals of real estate investing and asset protection.
👉 Think Long-Term – Wealth isn’t built overnight; strategic planning ensures long-term success.
👉 Explore Real Estate for Philanthropy – Consider donating property or leveraging commercial assets for charitable giving.
👉 Read Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times – Get Ben’s expert insights on building and protecting wealth.
👉 Visit BenReinberg.com for More Resources – Discover courses, consulting, and investment opportunities.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

🔹 Ben Reinberg’s Website: www.benreinberg.com
🔹 Alliance Real Estate Investments: www.alliancecgc.com
🔹 Pre-Order Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times: www.benreinberg.com/book
 

🎧 Subscribe & Share:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Money to Give with others looking to grow wealth with purpose.

🎙 Episode Summary
How can families make philanthropy a lasting and impactful part of their legacy? In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck continues his conversation with Megan Helzner and Valerie Sussman, diving deeper into the nuances of family philanthropy, tax-efficient giving, and engaging multiple generations in charitable efforts.

From estate planning and donor-advised funds to leveraging non-cash assets, this discussion offers practical strategies to help families structure their giving in ways that align with their values, financial goals, and long-term vision for making a difference. Whether you're a donor, nonprofit leader, or financial advisor, this episode provides essential insights into how to approach philanthropy more strategically.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✔️ Entry Points for Giving Conversations – When and how to introduce philanthropy in family discussions
✔️ Estate Planning & Legacy Giving – Structuring philanthropy for long-term impact
✔️ Using Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) – How to maximize flexibility and tax advantages
✔️ Non-Cash Giving – Unlocking the potential of real estate, stock, and business sales for philanthropy
✔️ Engaging Multiple Generations – Ensuring family unity in giving and passing on philanthropic values
✔️ Tax-Efficient Giving Strategies – Reducing tax burdens while increasing charitable impact
✔️ Avoiding Donor Fatigue – Balancing immediate giving with sustainable, long-term impact
✔️ Philanthropy in Changing Times – How social movements and global events shape giving strategies

About Our Guests:

🔹 Megan Helzner is a Principal at CFAR, where she advises family foundations and mission-driven organizations on effective philanthropy. With advanced degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and a background in nonprofit leadership, she helps families develop personalized giving strategies.

🔹 Valerie Sussman is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy, specializing in estate planning, tax-efficient charitable giving, and structuring philanthropic trusts. She has served in leadership roles at the Boston Bar Association and the Boston Estate Planning Council and is an expert in wealth management and philanthropy.

Take Action:

👉 Start the Conversation – Use natural moments like holidays, major life events, or financial planning discussions to introduce philanthropy.
👉 Explore Non-Cash Giving – Consider donating appreciated assets, real estate, or business interests instead of cash.
👉 Leverage Tax Strategies – Work with advisors to maximize deductions and create long-term charitable structures.
👉 Engage the Next Generation – Involve younger family members by aligning philanthropy with causes that resonate with them.
👉 Stay Informed – Follow experts like Megan and Valerie for the latest insights on strategic philanthropy.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

🔹 National Philanthropic Trust: www.nptrust.org
🔹 House & Senate Directories: www.house.gov | www.senate.gov
🔹 Connect with Meghan Helzner and Valerie Sussman on LinkedIn for more insights.

🎧 Subscribe & Share:
If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Money to Give with those who care about philanthropy and wealth planning.

Episode Summary:
With major tax reform looming in 2025, the nonprofit sector finds itself at a critical crossroads. In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck welcomes Sara Barba, a policy expert deeply embedded in the legislative landscape, to break down how recent political shifts and budget reconciliation efforts could dramatically impact charitable giving.

We discuss the latest developments out of Washington, the challenges nonprofits are facing in the wake of policy uncertainty, and what individuals and organizations can do to advocate for philanthropy. If you’re wondering how tax policy changes will shape the future of giving—or what actions donors and nonprofits should take now—this episode is a must-listen.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✔️ The state of tax reform in 2025 and how it affects philanthropy
✔️ How budget reconciliation is shaping nonprofit funding
✔️ The role of executive orders in altering charitable giving policies
✔️ Why nonprofits and donors must advocate for tax-efficient philanthropy
✔️ Actionable steps individuals can take to support the sector

About Our Guest:

Sara Barba is a seasoned public policy expert specializing in tax policy, philanthropy, and legislative advocacy. As a senior advisor at Integer, LLC she helps nonprofits and donors navigate the ever-changing political landscape to maximize impact.

Follow Sara Barba on LinkedIn for policy updates

🎧 Subscribe & Share:
If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe, leave a review, and share Money to Give with those who care about the future of philanthropy. Every voice matters in shaping policies that impact charitable giving.

Episode Summary

What does philanthropy look like for high-net-worth families? How can wealth advisors, estate planners, and philanthropic consultants help guide their giving? In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck—The Philanthropy Guy—dives into these critical questions with two expert guests: Megan Helzner and Valerie Sussman.

With decades of experience advising donors, family foundations, and mission-driven organizations, Megan and Valerie offer invaluable insights into structuring charitable giving, engaging multiple generations, and maximizing impact through tax-efficient strategies. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation packed with actionable advice for donors, advisors, and nonprofit professionals alike.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

✔️ The key factors high-net-worth families should consider when structuring their philanthropy
✔️ How to balance financial planning with meaningful charitable impact
✔️ Best practices for multi-generational engagement in family philanthropy
✔️ Tax-advantaged strategies for maximizing charitable giving

About Our Guests

🔹 Megan Helzner, MPA, MBA – A Senior Manager at CIFAR, Megan is a consultant and coach to family foundations, family enterprises, and other mission-driven organizations. She holds advanced degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton School, along with leadership certifications in nonprofit management.

🔹 Valerie Sussman, Esq. – A Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy, Valerie specializes in helping clients achieve their charitable goals through estate planning, trusts, and tax-advantaged giving strategies. She is an active member of the Boston Bar Association, the Boston Estate Planning Council, and the Boston Foundation’s Professional Advisor Network.

Tune In & Subscribe

Join us for this insightful conversation and discover how high-net-worth families can give more effectively while aligning their philanthropy with their values and legacy goals.

📌 Subscribe to Money to Give on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review!

💡 Know someone who would benefit from this episode? Share it with them!

📩 Have a question or topic suggestion? Reach out to us!

Episode Summary:

Federal grants can unlock transformative opportunities for nonprofits, but the process is often complex and intimidating. In this episode, we sit down with Bria Arline, Founder and CEO of IQ Ignited, who has helped nonprofits and local governments secure millions in public funding with an impressive 80% success rate.

Bria shares her expert insights on simplifying the federal grant application process, overcoming common challenges, and positioning your organization for long-term success. Whether you’re just starting out with grant applications or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you secure funding and achieve your mission.

What You’ll Learn:

About Our Guest:

Bria Arline is the Founder and CEO of IQ Ignited, a consultancy specializing in federal grant solutions for nonprofits and local governments. With her guidance, organizations have unlocked millions in funding to expand critical programs, particularly in education and workforce development. Bria is passionate about helping nonprofits streamline their grant processes to drive impact and transform lives in their communities.

Links & Resources:

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction and overview of federal grantmaking challenges
[05:30] Bria’s journey to becoming a grantmaking expert
[12:15] Key tips for simplifying the grant application process
[18:45] Overcoming capacity and resource challenges in nonprofits
[25:30] The importance of storytelling and clear communication in grant applications
[30:00] Final thoughts and Bria’s advice for nonprofit leaders

Let’s Connect:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. Together, we can amplify the impact of nonprofits around the world!

Death. Something we don't really like to think about! But, you know who thinks about death a lot? Estate planning professionals. They work with individuals and families to create the right set of instructions based on the intellectual and emotional desires of their clients. What are the life lessons that professionals in the estate planning industry can learn along the way regarding service over material wealth? What kind of advice would a professional like this give to the younger version of himself? And, what people do we meet along the way that irrevocably change our lives--and guide us to live a life in full? Hear from expert Eli Angote about his reflections in the field.

Need support with your estate planning documents?
Find Eli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahka/
Read more about Eli's work: https://thebestnotary.net/team/

Likely, we all know of a family that has been affected in some way by substance misuse and/or mental illness.  And both of these issues are at a crisis point in the U.S.  As our concerns rise, what actually WORKS in addressing these issues?  And, what role do government and policymakers play in addressing addiction and mental illness---and how do they respond?  Further, and importantly, what role can donors and philanthropy play?  Lastly, how can professional advisors---like CPAs, wealth advisors, and trusts & estates attorneys---support donors in engaging in behavioral health philanthropy?  Join expert Tym Rourke for a deep and fascinating conversation about the possibilities ahead.