From Teacher to Fundraiser: Donor Expectations & Storytelling

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, host Rob Burke sits down with Maya Severns, Director of Development and Marketing at LION Charter School in New York, to explore the real-world challenges and strategies of fundraising in today’s nonprofit landscape.

Maya shares her journey from teaching to development, the lessons she’s learned about donor relationships, and how her team integrates marketing and fundraising to maximize impact. Together, they discuss how to stay mission-driven, avoid burnout, and use storytelling for fundraising to build lasting connections with donors.

You’ll hear insights on: • Shifting donor expectations post-pandemic • Why relationships and storytelling remain the cornerstone of nonprofit fundraising • Practical ways to connect donors to the programs they care about most • Tips for avoiding burnout as a fundraiser • The importance of involving your whole organization in fundraising

Whether you’re a fundraiser, nonprofit leader, or simply passionate about mission-driven work, this episode will help you simplify, focus, and engage donors more effectively.

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