The Email Strategy That 2x Fundraising Goals with Wendy Faust, Live Like Lou Foundation and Christina Edwards, Splendid Consulting

Sep 18, 2024

Wendy Faust, the Executive Director of the Live Like Lou Foundation, is dedicated to supporting families affected by ALS and funding essential research. She shares how the foundation has transformed its donor engagement strategy, boasting a remarkable 64% email open rate. Wendy discusses the viral impact of the Ice Bucket Challenge and strategies like personalized outreach, TikTok videos, and data-driven decisions to maintain donor relationships. The conversation underscores the power of storytelling and community connection in effective fundraising.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Empowering Families and Research in the Fight Against ALS

01:52 • 2min

Beyond the Ice Bucket: Sustaining ALS Awareness

03:28 • 12min

Boosting Engagement Through Strategic Email Frequency and Data Analysis

15:01 • 2min

Growing Connections Through Storytelling

17:22 • 26min

Empowering Mantras and Community Connections Amid Challenges

43:40 • 3min

What if you could transform your entire donor engagement strategy from the ground up, 2x your fundraising goals, AND achieve a 64% open rate?

I’m excited to feature a conversation previously on The Purpose & Profit Club podcast featuring Wendy Faust, the trailblazing Executive Director of the Live Like Lou Foundation, and host Christina Edwards from Splendid Consulting.

Wendy takes us on an inspiring journey through her transformative work supporting ALS-affected families, funding innovative ALS research, and keeping Lou Gehrig’s legacy alive. You’ll hear about the viral success of the Ice Bucket Challenge and what it means for ongoing advocacy and funding efforts.

We also uncover the secrets behind tripling email frequency to achieve a 64% open rate, all through the lens of nonprofit storytelling. Plus, personalized thank-you notes, candid videos on TikTok, anniversary emails, and data platforms like Bloomerang helped revolutionize their approach.

Every connection and story shared can make a difference!

P.S. Sign up for FREE instant access to Christina’s masterclass, Email Goldmine: Monetize Your Email List.

Resources & Links

Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn and learn more about Live Like Lou on their website and Instagram.

Want to skyrocket your open rates and double your next fundraiser? Sign up for FREE instant access to Christina’s masterclass, Email Goldmine: Monetize Your Email List.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you.

This show is brought to you by GivingTuesday! GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement that started in 2012 with a simple idea: a day to do good.

This year, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, join the conversation: share your favorite nonprofit’s campaign, volunteer for a cause you care about, share an act of kindness, or encourage your audience to do the same.

Use #GivingTuesday, tag @GivingTuesday, and visit GivingTuesday.org/Participate to get involved and inspire others!

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