In this Tips & Tricks episode of The Giving Nook, guest hosts Katie Lord and Chris Stibbs take over the mic to tackle a cornerstone of nonprofit success: donor stewardship and the donor experience. Are we truly stewarding our donors—or just checking a box after the gift comes in? Katie & Chris dig into what it really means to build lasting donor relationships, why the post-gift experience matters just as much as the ask, and how small, meaningful touches can create loyal supporters for life. They share fresh ideas, common pitfalls, and practical ways to deepen donor connections without overwhelming your team. Whether you’re building your first stewardship plan or refreshing your entire donor journey, this episode will help you rethink how you show up for your donors—and why it matters more now than ever.

In this episode of The Giving Nook, I’m joined by the incredible Angie Blumel, President and CEO of Jackson County CASA—a Kansas City nonprofit fiercely advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect.

Angie shares the powerful mission behind Jackson County CASA, the urgent need for volunteer advocates, and the impact a single, consistent adult can have in a child’s life. We dive into the realities facing children in the child welfare system, the challenges nonprofits face in today’s funding landscape, and the heart behind CASA’s work to ensure every child’s voice is heard and valued.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, donor, advocate, or simply someone who believes every child deserves a champion, this conversation will inspire you to lean in and make a difference. Learn more or get involved: www.jacksoncountycasa-mo.org

In this Tips & Tricks episode of The Giving Nook, guest hosts Katie Lord and Chris Stibbs take over the mic to explore another major fundraising topic we all wrestle with: events.

Are we putting too much pressure—and too many expectations—on our fundraising events? Katie & Chris dive into the world of nonprofit events, sharing what works, what doesn’t, and how to ensure your events actually drive meaningful support & relationships (not just busywork). They offer real talk on how events should serve your mission—not the other way around—and how to create event experiences that build lasting donor relationships.

Whether you’re planning your golf tournament, gala, or rethinking a signature event that’s starting to feel stale, this episode will help you take a fresh, mission-first approach—and remind you that fundraising success is about more than just filling a big ballroom.

In this episode of The Giving Nook, we're joined by Edgar Palacios—a visionary leader dedicated to transforming education for Latinx communities. As the founder of the Latinx Education Collaborative (LEC) and Revolución Educativa (RevED), Edgar shares his journey from personal experiences to pioneering initiatives that address the underrepresentation of Latinx educators in K–12 schools. We delve into the origins and missions of LEC and RevED, strategies to increase Latinx representation in education, the importance of community engagement and advocacy, and fundraising insights.

Whether you're an educator, nonprofit leader, or advocate for equity, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on fostering inclusive and representative educational environments. Learn more at: www.latinxedco.org and www.revedkc.org.

In this episode of The Giving Nook, I’m joined by the inspiring Kim Stanley, Executive Director of Braden’s Hope for Childhood Cancer, a Kansas City-based nonprofit that’s rewriting the narrative for kids fighting cancer.

Kim shares the deeply personal story behind Braden’s Hope, how one little boy’s battle sparked a movement, and how the organization is funding groundbreaking research to bring HOPE to children and families nationwide. We dive into the realities of pediatric cancer funding, the power of community-driven philanthropy, and the lessons Kim has learned leading a mission rooted in love, courage, and relentless determination.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, donor, or someone who believes in hope against all odds, this conversation will move you. Learn more or donate: www.bradenshope.org

In this Tips & Tricks episode of The Giving Nook, guest hosts Katie Lord and Chris Stibbs take over the mic to explore a fundraising trend we know all too well: The Desk Fundraiser.

Have we become too cozy behind our inboxes? In this episode, we’re talking about a growing trend in the sector: the rise of the desk fundraiser—a well-intentioned professional who spends more time buried in spreadsheets than building relationships. Katie & Chris share why the best fundraising doesn’t happen behind a screen—and how stepping out from behind the desk (literally and figuratively) is key to meaningful donor engagement, stronger partnerships, and long-term growth.

Whether you’re a one-person development shop or leading a full fundraising team, this episode will challenge you to rethink where your time is going—and give you permission to get out there and fundraise like you mean it.

Pull up a chair and get cozy—we’re bringing you inside the official launch party of The Philanthropy Place and our brand-new podcast, The Giving Nook!

In this special live-taped episode, you’ll get a front-row seat to:

- The story behind The Philanthropy Place and why we believe fundraising should feel good, work better, and make a difference.

- What to expect this season on The Giving Nook—from fresh takes on fundraising to real-talk interviews with nonprofit changemakers.

- Guest reflections from launch party attendees as they share what philanthropy means to them, what inspires them, and their hopes for the sector.

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, a passionate board member, or just nonprofit-curious, there's a seat for you in The Giving Nook.

📅 New episodes drop every Wednesday morning — don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

Welcome to The Giving Nook— hosted by Courtney Forkum, founder of The Philanthropy Place. Courtney's been in the fundraising trenches as both a frontline fundraiser and nonprofit consultant and knows what it takes to turn vision into impact. The Giving Nook is your cozy corner for conversations that inspire action. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, board member, or curious change-maker, this is your place to learn, laugh, and level up your mission.