The Influential Nonprofit

Myths I've Stopped Believing and You Should Too

Listen Later

Key Takeaways:

  • Fundraising rooted in pressure and extraction erodes trust over time. Sustainable support grows from community, shared values, and genuine connection. When relationships lead, generosity follows naturally.
  • Over-following up and manufactured urgency often reveal anxiety, not strategy. Constant pressure weakens credibility and exhausts donors. Abundance thinking creates calmer, more effective leadership.
  • Caring about a mission is not enough to spark giving. Donors contribute when they feel seen, heard, and connected to something meaningful. Relationship transforms passive belief into active generosity.
  • A “no” rarely means disinterest or lack of care. Staying curious and honoring dignity preserves long-term trust. Valuing the person over the transaction builds lasting loyalty.

    •  

    “Manufactured emergency undermines your credibility. If our relationships are rooted in trust... manufactured urgency breaks that trust, and it is a tool of manipulation.”

     

    “Curiosity keeps relationships alive. Assumptions shut them down.”

     

    “When we stop treating generosity like it's running out, fundraising gets quieter and more effective.” 

    - Maryanne Dersch

     

     

    Let’s Work Together to Amplify Your Leadership + Influence

    1. Group Coaching for Nonprofit Leaders

    Want to lead with more clarity, confidence, and influence? My group coaching program is designed for nonprofit leaders who are ready to communicate more powerfully, navigate challenges with ease, and move their organizations forward.
     

    2. Team Coaching + Training

    I work hands-on with nonprofit teams to strengthen leadership, improve communication, and align around a shared vision. Whether you’re growing fast or feeling stuck, we’ll create more clarity, collaboration, and momentum—together.
     

    3. Board Retreats + Trainings

    Your board has big potential. I’ll help you unlock it. My engaging, no-fluff retreats and trainings are built to energize your board, refocus on what matters, and generate real results.



    Get your free starter kit today at www.theinfluentialnonprofit.com


    Connect with Maryanne about her coaching programs:

    https://www.courageouscommunication.com/connect

     

    Book Maryanne to speak at your conference:

    https://www.courageouscommunication.com/nonprofit-keynote-speaker

    ...more
    View all episodesView all episodes
    Download on the App Store
    The Influential NonprofitBy Maryanne Dersch
    • 5
    • 5
    • 5
    • 5
    • 5

    5

    9 ratings