Raise Nation

Generative AI is set to redefine everything. Embrace the era of transformation!

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Spell-check and Grammarly? Pfft, who needs ’em when you’ve got ChatGPT, Claude, Bard, and a whole gang of AI buddies! But seriously, what are these tools, and do they come with a manual? They sound pricey and time-consuming. Can’t I just ignore them and hope for the best? Oh wait, is my job on the line here? Prompt, prompt, prompt... Wait, am I supposed to be good at prompts now? And what exactly does that mean? Generative AI is taking over faster than a UFO invasion, and I’m feeling more out of place than ever. Send help before the aliens replace us all!Sound familiar?Generative AI is reshaping almost everything, and yeah, it can feel pretty unsettling. Remember when you first Googled ChatGPT? We’ve all been there. But it’s not some distant sci-fi notion anymore—it’s here, it’s potent, and it’s changing the game. So why not hop on board now and make the most of it?Shawn Olds, Co-founder and CEO at BoodleBox, is a tech visionary with a deep passion for cutting-edge technology and leadership in tech adoption. Alongside his co-founder, he boasts an unparalleled track record, having generated over $600 million in revenue, raised millions in nonprofit donations, and positively impacted thousands of lives. With over a decade of expertise in building powerful technology, Shawn and his team at BoodleBox have empowered hundreds of teams to harness the power of AI. From promising startups to established enterprises, he has spearheaded successful technology transformations across various sectors. Through his platform BoodleBox, Shawn assists team leaders in accelerating GenAI adoption, collaboration, automation, and integration.Shawn Olds joins Raise Nation Radio to demystify Generative AI, highlighting its simplicity, efficiency, and collaborative potential. He introduces the groundbreaking BoodleBox platform, facilitating team collaboration by integrating AI Helpers and AI Coworkers to enhance productivity and spark innovation.

In this episode:

• Generative AI teamwork
• AI is coming after your job
• Humans and AI working together
• EOY predictions

• GenAI automated workflows

DESCRIPTION: Expert advice for aligning your event with the ideal benefit auctioneer.

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Auctioneer Matchmaking featuring Erin Ward and Bobby D.

Not all benefit auctioneers are cut from the same cloth. There’s more to the role than meets the stage. Behind the scenes, a skilled benefit auctioneer must possess agility, quick thinking, and an intimate understanding of the nonprofit’s mission, story, and goals. However, that only scratches the surface. Today’s auctioneer needs to be forward-thinking, creative, well-versed in event trends—if not pioneering them—and fully embracing innovation and technology to optimize their stage program.Selecting the ideal benefit auctioneer shouldn’t be rushed or based solely on past fundraising achievements. Success hinges on various factors, making it imperative for nonprofits to approach the hiring process methodically. Treat the auctioneer role with the gravity it deserves, akin to a formal job search. Invest time in crafting a detailed description and conducting thorough interviews until you find the perfect match.Erin Ward and Bobby D., a dynamic husband-and-wife duo sharing a career and passion, are popular and respected benefit auctioneers. They emphasize the importance of nonprofit/auctioneer matchmaking. The pair know how to drive results and exceed fundraising goals. With a legacy spanning multiple generations, Erin continuously hones her skills by blending traditional best practices with modern engagement strategies. Bobby D. is pioneering new standards and advising nonprofits on ambitious endeavors.Joining Raise Nation Radio, they spill the tea and share insights, amusing anecdotes, and groove to “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge, underscoring the importance of adaptability in the world of benefit auctioneering.

In this episode:

• Agility in Stage Navigation
• Transformation into Year-Round Fundraising
• Giving Experience Design
• Mission Ambassadorship
• Passionate Stage Inspiration

Inspiring communities with data-driven storytelling.

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Effectively conveying the social impact of a nonprofit is a multifaceted challenge. This complexity stems from the diverse nature of nonprofit activities, spanning various sectors. Crafting a coherent narrative from these diverse initiatives requires a delicate balance—avoiding the appearance of boastfulness while highlighting meaningful achievements.Social impact is often qualitative, involving changes in individuals or communities. Expressing these qualitative transformations in tangible, measurable results is intricate. And the call for real-time, transparent reporting introduces another challenge, necessitating accuracy while ensuring accessibility. Navigating this landscape demands that nonprofits continually balance conveying comprehensive impact with maintaining simplicity and transparency in their communications.John Mark Vanderpool and the Social Impact Solutions team empathize with nonprofits struggling to convey their value. While nonprofits passionately believe in the change they inspire, there’s a common frustration that donors and stakeholders might not fully grasp their impact. Battling this perceived undervaluation, they yearn to communicate, saying, “Don’t you understand what we do?”In this episode of Raise Nation Radio, John Mark addresses this challenge. He provides clear communication strategies and concise impact metrics, guiding nonprofits to articulate their value effectively and advance their noble causes.

In this episode:

• Insightful impact metrics
• Impact reports
• Concise communications strategies
• Effective nonprofit elevator pitch
• Theory of Change

Easy, convenient, and fun ways to make a meaningful impact.

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In the tapestry of human aspirations, a common thread binds us: a genuine desire to give and contribute to building better tomorrows. Corporations, acknowledging a deeper responsibility, embrace social impact as more than a mere checkbox. Within this landscape of shared values, nonprofits yearn for their communities to grow and flourish.On the surface, it might seem effortless to connect these dots, given the common desires and needs. However, the reality, as most nonprofits would attest, is far from easy. Building a community is a challenging endeavor.Meet Ashlee Green, the visionary behind Service and Jam. Her ethos revolves around finding avenues to impact communities—be it through time, money, effort, talent, or creativity. Ever curious about the absence of kindness in everyday interactions, she pondered why random gestures and volunteering were so scarce. Asking the simple question, “Why don’t people volunteer more?” uncovered insightful responses—lack of time, competing priorities, and uncertainty about opportunities. Thus, Serve and Jam was born, transforming helping others into a delightful and convenient experience.Serve and Jam goes beyond bridging social and service gaps; it’s a nexus of interactive events and digital technology, generating tangible resources for nonprofits and communities in need. So, what’s your jam?

In this episode:

• Insights from the Starbucks line

• Essence of True Altruism
• Creative Social and Digital Connectivity
• CSR and ESG connections
• Curated service parties for support
• Care kit production and distribution

Once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences not only spin the world but also craft enduring memories and fuel meaningful impact.

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January 25, 2024 - Episode # 120: Passport to Impact: Transformative Travel Experiences featuring Kevin Spykerman

Auctions wield immense fundraising power for nonprofits, yet their logistics can be overwhelming. Enter travel experiences, the prized jewels of auctions, raffles, and sweepstakes, injecting excitement into both online and in-person events. They captivate supporters, drive impressive bids, and create unforgettable moments. However, crafting an enticing travel package demands intricate details, posing a risk for nonprofits. The good news: risk-free options exist, allowing nonprofits to effortlessly fundraise while focusing on revenue maximization.

On Raise Nation Radio, Kevin Spykerman, Director of Business Development at Auction Packages, unravels the nuances of elevating fundraising through travel consignment. With a rich 17-year background, he shares pivotal insights, emphasizing factors like diversified auction travel portfolios, risk-free experiences, no upfront costs, and streamlined planning and booking. Kevin outlines key considerations for engaging travel consignment providers, including fundraising expertise, a solid track record, consultative services, and trust.

Travel is more than an auction element; it’s the gateway to impactful and sustained fundraising success. Now, wow supporters and boost bids without breaking a sweat!

In this episode:

• Travel Optimization Strategies for Year-Round Revenue
• Effective Offerings of Multiples
• Dispelling Consignment Myths
• Trends in Hot Travel Destinations
• Kevin’s Exciting Raise Conference Announcement

Exploring trust challenges in nonprofit communities and the power of gratitude to rebuild connections.

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Despite public charities’ established credibility, nonprofits grapple with a trust deficit affecting donor relations and long-term sustainability. Amid a myriad of challenges, the question arises: how can nonprofits regain trust while juggling multiple priorities? Surprisingly, the answer lies in simplicity—cultivating gratitude.

Nicholas Kristock, a true servant leader, is the epitome of gratitude. He has woven a legacy centered on giving thanks. As the founder of Fleece & Thank You, a pioneering 501(c)3 organization, Nicholas dedicates himself to providing psychosocial support and programs to children in hospitals. Fleece & Thank You extends comfort to 22 children’s hospitals and units across Michigan. Nicholas has also expanded his impact through Grateful Human, an apparel brand tailored for those passionate about sharing their gratitude.

Beyond his philanthropic ventures, Nicholas serves as the Founder and CEO of KindKatch, a personalized video engagement platform designed to captivate audiences and foster connections.

Tune in as Nicholas takes the mic on Raise Nation Radio, diving into distinctive opportunities within the nonprofit sector, living with purpose, and navigating the dynamic digital landscape. As automation and tech take the forefront, it can feel daunting. Nicholas offers a comforting reminder, channeling Dr. Seuss: Anything is possible because there’s no one your than you.

In this episode:

• The power of gratitude in rebuilding community trust
• Methods for forging enduring connections with donors
• Embracing servant leadership
• Prioritization of donor relationships
• Investment of time and energy in humanizing your brand

Step confidently into 2024 with fascinating research from fundraisers like you! Sarah Sebastian and Steve Lausch of OneCause unveil insightful data to steer nonprofit priorities and elevate fundraising success in the New Year.

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As nonprofits step into 2024, they encounter both familiar and new challenges. Yet, this year is a pivotal moment—an opportunity to take control, reflect, proactively address issues, and innovate with fresh fundraising ideas. The 2024 Fundraising Outlook, drawing insights from over 900 fundraisers, provides strategies for donor-centric approaches, rebuilding trust, and embracing advanced tools.

In its 6th year, this study guides nonprofits through top concerns like donor acquisition, sustainable giving, retention, and the evolving digital fundraising landscape. Join Sarah Sebastian, Director of Corporate Communications, and Steve Lausch, Director of Product Marketing at OneCause, as they dive into the key findings, emphasizing the enduring significance of event and online fundraising, growing confidence with in-person events, integration of tools like artificial intelligence, and the readiness to explore innovative fundraising methods.

Tune in to empower your nonprofit for a successful year of giving!

The 2024 Fundraising Outlook explores:

• Nonprofits’ successful fundraising strategies
• Top fundraising challenges and priorities as a new year approaches
• Shifts in technology investment as digital fundraising continues to shape the generosity landscape
• The most surprising insights that caught Sarah and Steve’s attention

Get into the festive spirit with Jarrett Ransom, a.k.a. The Nonprofit Nerd, and Dawn Lego as they jingle through the highlights of 2023 on Raise Nation Radio and The Nonprofit Show. Join the duo in heartfelt reflections on impactful missions, inspiring guests, and the tireless efforts of nonprofits shaping a brighter future.

From warm anecdotes to candid discussions, this episode celebrates the dedicated organizations making a difference every day. It’s a tribute to the best moments, a nod to the hardworking nonprofits, and a sincere thank you for their unwavering commitment to building better tomorrows. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and applause for those who make the world a better place. This one’s for you, the champions of great missions!

National Adoption Month: A November Celebration of Love and Families

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In a world returning to in-person gatherings with newfound vigor, the challenge to stand out has intensified. Escalating event costs push nonprofits to raise ticket prices, prompting donors to be selective about the events they choose. Audiences, growing more discerning, compel nonprofits to reconsider the nature of their events, emphasizing the need for memorable mission moments and meaningful experiences.The cycle of planning for an annual event starts immediately after its conclusion, constituting a year-round labor of love. With a myriad of well-intentioned ideas pouring in from volunteers to board members, each channeling their inner event planner, it’s easy to veer off course.Meet Mary Davidson, CEO and Chief Event Organizer, EP Events, where fundraising events are her expertise. With over a decade in the non-profit industry, Mary brings a wealth of experience from diverse roles and organizations with limited resources. Tune in to Raise Nation Radio as Mary candidly discusses maximizing funds through strategic budgeting, meticulous planning, and thoughtful calculations. Join us to gain insights on steering your NorthStar to create exceptional and impactful fundraising experiences.

This episode covers:

• Fundraising Events 101.
• Event tips, tricks, and trends.
• The benefits for hiring fundraising event professionals.
• Community over competition.
• Events with a purpose.

Families are beautifully diverse and formed in various ways. Yet, within the realms of foster care, adoption, and kinship care, the journey to build a family can be challenging and heartbreaking. Past policies disrupted the unity of loved ones, portraying the idea of family as transient, especially when foster children were abruptly thrust into adulthood at 18. This unsettling transition added anxiety and abandonment to their already delicate situation. Today, strides are being made to mend this broken system, offering a more supportive environment for those bound by love.

The Coalition for Children, Youth, and Families plays a crucial role in supporting some of Wisconsin’s most vulnerable children and teens by ensuring that their families and caregivers have the necessary support and tools. Their philosophy is straightforward: when parents thrive, children thrive. The organization is committed to providing a compassionate, responsive, and secure space for individuals and families with questions and concerns. Additionally, they aim to deliver accessible and reliable information at every stage of a family’s journey, create opportunities for ongoing learning and social connections, and raise awareness about the unique experiences of children, youth, and families impacted by foster care, adoption, and kinship care.

In this episode of Raise Nation Radio, Oriana Carey, Chief Executive Officer, Coalition for Children, Youth & Families, joins us to share stories of hope and inspiration, aiming to raise awareness. The conversation is dedicated to providing accurate and compassionate information, along with insightful resources, to reassure parents and caregivers that they are not alone on their journey.

This episode covers:

• Celebrating the Coalition’s 40th Anniversary
• Young people voicing decisions impacting their lives
• Developing identities, uncovering talents, and maintaining connections.
• Embracing and affirming cultural identities.
• “Nothing about us without us.”