Small Nonprofit: Fundraising Tips, Leadership Strategies, and Community-Centric Solutions

Thriving as a One-Person Fundraising Team with Caitlin McBride

Jan 21, 2025

Caitlin McBride, an experienced fundraiser and consultant, helps one-person fundraising teams at small nonprofits thrive. She shares her journey from large teams to solo fundraising, discussing the freedom and solitude of this role. Caitlin emphasizes the importance of systems and technology to avoid burnout and maximize efficiency. She offers practical tips like building a support network, leveraging low-cost tech tools, and creating clear communication materials. Self-care and knowing when to ask for help are crucial for sustainable success.

33:47

Episode guests

Caitlin McBride

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Caitlin McBride emphasizes the importance of creating organized systems and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency as a solo fundraiser.

Setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care are crucial strategies to combat burnout and maintain sustainability in nonprofit fundraising roles.

Deep dives

Choosing Fundraising as a Career

The guest, Caitlin McBride, shared her intentional journey into the fundraising profession, distinguishing her path from many who fall into it by circumstance. Initially starting her career in finance, she quickly recognized that it misaligned with her values, prompting her to seek a role in the nonprofit sector. After taking a maternity leave contract, she observed various organizational functions, which inspired her interest in fundraising. Her affinity for writing and communication solidified her choice to pursue a fundraising career, illustrating the importance of passion and dedication in charitable work.

Intro

3min

Navigating Solo Fundraising Challenges

18min

Navigating Burnout and Self-Care in Nonprofit Work

2min

Navigating the Challenges of Solo Fundraising

5min

Building a Foundation for Fundraising Success

2min

Navigating the Solo Fundraising Experience and Available Resources

3min

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Caitlin McBride, an experienced fundraiser and consultant, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of being a one-person fundraising department. Caitlin shares her journey from working in large fundraising teams to becoming the sole fundraiser at small nonprofits. She provides actionable insights on setting up systems, avoiding burnout, and leveraging technology to maximize efficiency. If you’re a nonprofit professional juggling multiple roles, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you thrive.

Key Topics Covered:

Embrace systems and technology
Get comfortable with decision-making
Set boundaries and manage expectations
Prioritize self-care without guilt
Know when to ask for help

Actionable Tips:

➜ Build a strong support network: Connect with other fundraisers, listen to industry podcasts, and seek mentorship.
➜ Leverage free and low-cost tech: Use tools like TechSoup for nonprofit discounts on software and services.
➜ Create a case for support: Having a well-written document makes grant writing and donor outreach much more efficient.
➜ Audit and organize your CRM: Clean data and standardized tracking can save hours of work.
➜ Educate your board & ED: Set clear expectations about what’s realistic for a one-person fundraising team.

Resources:

Connect with Us:

Connect with Maria Rio
Connect with Caitlin McBride
Further Together Website

Subscribe and Review:

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Nonprofit Podcast on your favorite platform! Leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights. Watch this episode on YouTube.

Support the Podcast:

Support these conversations by donating here.

Coming Next Week:

Join us next week as Maria shares her insights on measuring success and making data-driven decisions! 🚀

Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)

Support the show