Nonprofit CourageLab

Hi, friend!  In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, I dive into what it takes to make serious cultural shifts within your organization. If you’re committed to raising millions in the next few years and creating lasting change, this conversation is for you.  

Here’s what I cover:  

- Why culture change is non-negotiable: You can’t just hire a fundraiser and expect miracles. To raise millions, your organization needs a culture that fosters accountability, bold leadership, and strategic action.  

- The board’s role in success: Well-intentioned but unhelpful board members can derail your mission. Learn how to hold your board accountable and build a team that aligns with your bold vision.  

- Leadership starts with you: Your team’s performance reflects your leadership. I break down how to lead with courage, clarity, and a coaching mindset to bring out the best in your people.  

- The power of direct feedback: Avoiding tough conversations or waiting too long to address performance issues only holds your team back. I share tips on giving feedback that inspires growth.  

- Why coaching matters: Being a great leader isn’t just about managing tasks—it’s about helping your team uncover their own solutions, develop confidence, and take ownership of their results.  

This isn’t just about hitting fundraising goals—it’s about building a sustainable culture of excellence, courage, and impact.  To create a culture capable of raising millions, start by auditing your team and board dynamics to address accountability gaps and ensure everyone is positioned for success. Invest in your people through ongoing training, coaching, and development opportunities. Shift from managing to coaching by empowering your team to find solutions and take ownership. Reassess your leadership approach, modeling the culture of excellence you want to see, and clarify expectations with your board, ensuring members take meaningful action toward supporting your goals.

Creating a culture that raises millions requires intentional leadership, direct conversations, and ongoing investment in your people. This transformation won’t happen overnight, but by addressing cultural gaps and modeling bold leadership, you can build an organization capable of achieving extraordinary impact. Now’s the time to step up, lead with courage, and build the culture that will carry your vision forward.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey friend!  This episode is a special one—a snippet from my recent workshop, Best December Ever. In it, I walk through The Generosity Code, a set of principles I live by and teach my clients. I attribute 80-90% of our fundraising success to these foundational beliefs. Whether you’re looking to close out the year strong or need a mindset shift any time of year, this episode is packed with transformational insights.  

Here’s the heart of it: Giving is a gift to the giver. Fundraising isn’t about pleading for help; it’s about inviting people to align their money with their values and become the best versions of themselves. It’s also important to remember that we’re not entitled to anyone’s money. Even if we’re doing incredible work, gratitude and humility are crucial. Following up with donors? That’s not being pushy—it’s great customer service. It’s a way to help them follow through on their intentions, especially when life gets busy.  

Another key point: Get out of their wallet. It’s not our job to decide how much someone can or should give. Instead, present your big vision and the financial need, and let them determine their contribution. Lastly, invite, don’t push. We’re in a low-trust moment as a society, and genuine, pressure-free invitations to give resonate far more than high-pressure tactics. Taking the pressure off yourself first will naturally create a more inviting space for your donors.  

 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  

- The five core principles of The Generosity Code and how they can transform your fundraising.  

- Why the right mindset is more critical than tactics and strategies.  

- How to shift from scarcity to abundance thinking in your donor conversations.  

- Practical approaches to following up with donors without feeling pushy.  

- How to frame your asks around your big vision, not just your budget needs.  

- The importance of detaching from specific outcomes and leading with gratitude.  

These principles are more powerful than any tactic or strategy—they shape the energy you bring to every conversation and campaign. If you want to go deeper, you can purchase the full Best December Ever training at juliardoniez.com/training. It’s an invaluable resource to help you raise more money and make a bigger impact year-round. Let’s raise millions and change lives together!  

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey friends,  Welcome to this week’s episode, a special replay of a workshop I hosted on end-of-year fundraising strategies. If you’re in the nonprofit or fundraising world, this is a must-listen! I’m diving into **practical, tactical advice** for how I approach major gift fundraising to crush ambitious year-end goals. Spoiler alert: this is all about keeping it *simple*—because simplicity is the vibe here.  

Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:  

1. Mapping Your Fundraising Roadmap

  We kick things off by setting goals and creating a clear strategy to get there. I break down my personal two-page strategy document and how it helps me stay focused.  

2.The Magic of Working Backward 

  Learn how I approach setting ambitious goals—like raising $500K—and break them down into manageable steps. Whether it’s identifying top donors or focusing on one-on-one asks, I’ll walk you through my thought process.  

3.Ask Amounts & Projections  

 I introduce my “Ask Amount Framework” and show you how to determine the right ask based on a donor’s passion, trust level, and capacity. Then, we dig into projections: how to estimate potential gifts with realistic confidence levels.  

4. Courage in Fundraising  

   Let’s get real—asking for big gifts takes guts! I share my journey from sweating over a $2K ask to confidently asking for millions. You’ll hear how to build your courage muscle and get more comfortable with the big asks.  

5. Simple Over Busy

   Whether it’s skipping unnecessary events or learning to advocate for your time, I’ll show you how to cut the noise and focus on what really drives results.  

6. Donor Engagement Tips 

   From sending meaningful updates to personalizing your outreach, I share ways to keep donors engaged, invested, and excited to give—without overwhelming yourself.  

This is like sitting down with a fundraising coach who’s giving you the playbook to simplify and amplify your efforts. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to hit your goals.  

Take Action:  

I encourage you to workshop your own fundraising strategy as you listen. Think about:  

- Your big fundraising goal.  

- Who your top 20 donors are.  

- What ask amount feels bold but achievable.  

Let’s make this end-of-year campaign your best one yet!  Enjoy the episode.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey there, friends! In today’s episode, we’re diving into some big shifts happening in the world of philanthropy and nonprofits—and why it’s more crucial than ever for us to evolve with the times.

We’re in a new era. From policy changes on platforms like Facebook that affect nonprofit fundraising to a noticeable decline in DEI and education funding, it’s clear that yesterday’s strategies won’t carry us forward. We’re seeing funding sources dry up, priorities shift, and high performers leave the sector. If we don’t adapt, we risk getting left behind. And I don’t want that for any of you or the causes you champion.

Key Points Covered:

- Changing Fundraising Landscape: Social media platforms and government funding policies are shifting. For example, Facebook is no longer supporting recurring gifts or covering fees, and many big-name philanthropies are cutting their education budgets. To survive and thrive, we need diversified revenue streams and strategies that don’t rely on a single source.

- Talent Crisis in Nonprofits: The nonprofit space is struggling to attract, retain, and train talent, especially in development roles. Too often, we see fundraising stars promoted into management roles without the skills or support to truly lead. We need to invest in developing our people and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.

- Leadership and Growth: Being a great manager isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about coaching and supporting your team’s growth. It’s time to shift from a mindset of doing it all ourselves to empowering others to lead and create change alongside us.

- Avoiding Burnout: We are stretched thin, often doing multiple roles. It’s not sustainable. We need to communicate our needs, advocate for better support, and focus on activities that drive meaningful progress. As leaders, we have to model a healthier, more sustainable approach to work.

I also talked about the importance of self-reflection, especially as nonprofit leaders. Every quarter, I take a step back to assess how I’m doing in all aspects of my life—from my relationships to my work to my personal growth. We need to prioritize not only the tasks but our well-being and long-term vision. This kind of introspection and planning is essential to keep our organizations strong and sustainable.

If we want to see change in our organizations, it starts with us. We need to embrace new ways of thinking, build new habits, and invest in ourselves as leaders. It’s about growing our skill sets, enhancing our capacity to lead, and creating a culture where our teams feel supported, empowered, and inspired. Together, we can grow our impact and make a difference, but it requires action, courage, and a commitment to growth. So, let’s continue to challenge ourselves and each other to be the best leaders we can be.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Welcome to another episode of Nonprofit CourageLab! Today, I'm sharing a sneak peek into a recent Pitch-A-thon where we dive into the art of nonprofit pitching – not in a Shark Tank kind of way, but more like engaging in a powerful and meaningful conversation. Together, we’ll explore strategies to connect authentically with donors, practice impactful pitches, and avoid common missteps. This episode is perfect if you’re looking to make a difference through your ask, not just for your organization but in a way that resonates deeply with donors.

In this episode, we work with Sheena, a nonprofit leader from "To Write Love on Her Arms," as she crafts a personalized pitch. She highlights the importance of youth mental health, shares their impact on high school students across the country, and tailors her message to resonate with the specific values and passions of her donor.

Key Takeaways:

- Building Relationships, Not Pitches: A pitch should feel like a natural extension of a relationship. We’re not here to talk "at" people but to create a back-and-forth that lets the donor feel heard, valued, and understood.

- Focus on the Donor, Not Just the Cause: Too often, pitches spotlight only the organization’s needs. Remember: the donor is a partner. Tailor your ask to what drives them and make it clear why they’re essential to the mission.

- Tell Stories, Don’t Share Stats: Highlight how your work impacts individuals. Personal stories can be more powerful than numbers alone. For example, share how an 11-year-old struggling with depression found hope and healing through your program.

- Practice Makes Perfect (and Shorter!): Awareness of time is key. Practice your pitch, time it, and refine it so it lands clearly within a 2-3 minute window. You'll surprise yourself by how much impact you can make in a short, well-crafted pitch.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey friend! Today’s episode is a little different. I’m coming to you unfiltered, and honestly, I'm fed up. In my work with nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and development directors across the country, I’m seeing some serious gaps that we need to address.

We’ve been talking a lot about mental health and wellness in the nonprofit sector, which is important—but what’s missing from the conversation is a real accountability check. We need to give ourselves grace, yes, but we also need discipline. Something has to change, and it starts with us getting real about what isn’t working.

In this episode, I dive deep into the challenges we’re all facing in the fundraising world. I see people in leadership roles with no real training or support, fundraising teams stretched too thin, and an overall lack of reflection on what’s actually working. The reality is, we’re repeating the same mistakes over and over again and expecting different results. That needs to stop.

I talk about:

- The alarming turnover in fundraising roles and why the average tenure is only 18 months.

- The rise of fractional fundraisers and why that’s a positive shift.

- Why so many people in leadership feel burnt out and stuck—and how to move past that.

- The importance of focusing on prospects who *actually* care, instead of wasting time chasing people who aren’t interested.

- The hard truth about accountability and why leaders need to step up and have direct, honest conversations.

This episode is all about getting real. It’s time to reflect, stop making excuses, and take control of what we can. If you're ready to be part of a revolution of courage and accountability in the nonprofit sector, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

- Grace vs. Discipline: We need to balance grace with discipline. Sometimes, we’re too lenient with ourselves, and it’s holding us back from progress.

- Stop Chasing Dead Ends: If a prospect isn’t interested after 18 months, let them go. Focus your energy on those who are engaged and willing to give.

- Leadership Accountability: Leaders need to have the courage to address the elephant in the room and hold people accountable, whether it’s your CEO, board members, or yourself.

- Reflect and Adjust: Are you taking time to reflect on what’s working? If you’re stuck in “go-go-go” mode, it’s time to pause and reassess your strategies.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I guide you through the essentials of major gift fundraising, focusing on strategic planning, effective donor engagement, and optimal time management.

I'm going to go over how to schedule and prioritize tasks, reach out to loyal donors, and request multi-year pledges and one-time gifts and the importance of aligning donation requests with your organization's strategic plan and the frequent solicitation of referrals.

Learn best practices for donor portfolio reviews, setting weekly goals, and utilizing various communication platforms. I'll show you how to proactively build relationships, leverage social media, and personally connect with potential donors. To enhance your fundraising impact, there is a big need for regular planning, clear donor criteria, and consistent tracking of progress.

Additionally, I provide tips on decluttering your calendar, balancing new donor acquisition with nurturing existing relationships, and embracing creativity in your fundraising efforts. Don't forget to check out my free donor scripts cheat sheet available on my website for further support.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I share a case study about helping a New York City-based animal welfare organization secure an unrestricted $6 million gift, which is twice their annual budget of $3 million.

The discussion covers mistakes to avoid, strategies to build trust and credibility with donors, and the importance of a strategic plan with a big vision for impact. Emphasizing the high capacity and trust with donors, I explore the significance of having direct conversations when asking for large donations, such as $6 million, and the power of a simple proposal.

With personal anecdotes, I stress that generosity is a gift to the giver and that building strong relationships is key to acquiring major funds for impactful projects. This session aims to inspire and provide practical insights for nonprofit stakeholders seeking to level up their fundraising efforts.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Update

01:04 Case Study: Securing a $6 Million Gift

02:23 Building Trust and Credibility with Donors

04:51 Strategic Planning for Big Gifts

09:52 Crafting a Simple and Effective Proposal

13:41 The Importance of Direct Asks

30:07 Mindset and Personal Development

37:22 Conclusion and Encouragement

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I dive into a frequently asked question: how to determine the right amount to ask a donor for? I break down my thought process and introduce my special Ask Amount ebook, which is available for free.

I explore three key factors: the organization, the donor, and you, the fundraiser. I dive into evaluating an organization's size, effectiveness, vision, and fundraising goals. For donors, factors include their identity, mission alignment, financial capacity, and inclination to give.

Lastly, I discuss the role of the fundraiser, emphasizing the importance of courage and technical skills. I also include tips on engaging with donors and making successful asks. If you leave a five-star Apple Podcast review and send me a screenshot on LinkedIn, I'll share my ebook with you. Thank you for listening and continue to raise millions for impactful work.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I discuss how to determine if Courage Lab, my six-week group coaching accelerator, is the right fit for you. Courage Lab is designed for nonprofit professionals, such as executive and development directors, who are looking to raise unrestricted revenue from individual major gifts of $10k or more.

I provide an overview of what the program entails, including live training, recorded modules with six months of access, and personalized feedback. Additionally, I share success stories from past participants to illustrate the potential impact of the program. If you are ready to take action, prioritize major gifts fundraising, and grow bolder in your approach, visit julieordonez.com/couragelab to learn more and sign up.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2