211: Systemic Change in Nonprofits with Michelle Flores Vryn

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,

Mallory is joined by Michelle Flores Vryn, Head of Development at iNaturalist, about systemic challenges within the nonprofit sector. Michelle brings insights from her 15+ years in marketing, communications, and fundraising, emphasizing the critical need for a shift in nonprofit approaches to problem-solving, retention, and scaling. She is currently head of development at iNaturalist, as well as a changemaker on the AFP global board of directors and a Texas chapter organizer for community-centric fundraising.

Together, they delve into pressing issues like fundraisers' burnout, systemic structures that hinder nonprofits, and the sector’s struggle between scaling and driving real systems change. 

By setting achievable goals, embracing fresh ideas, and nurturing inner growth, fundraisers can tackle systemic challenges and drive meaningful change, transforming the nonprofit landscape into one that thrives on support and shared purpose!

Key takeaways from the episode: 

• Recognize the role of community support in fundraising.
• Explore the link between job stressors and burnout.
• Distinguish between budget scaling and systems change.
• Address root causes of nonprofit issues.
• Promote sustainable practices through leadership.
• Acknowledge generational shifts in workforce expectations.
• Encourage cultural change in fundraising.

Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

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If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point