The Nonprofit Show

How do you transform a simple document into a powerful storytelling tool that inspires donor action? That’s exactly what cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall tackled on this week’s Fundraisers Friday episode on How to Use Case Studies in Fundraising. Case studies aren’t just dry reports filled with data; they are dynamic narratives that celebrate an organization’s impact. As Tony put it, “A case study is a celebration of the work and the accomplishments of your organization.” Rather than seeing them as another bureaucratic task, nonprofits should recognize them as strategic storytelling tools that capture purpose, execution, and impact. The fast-paced conversation highlights the importance of humanizing data with powerful testimonials—from clients, volunteers, or even city officials—adding credibility and emotional depth. Julia points to this shift in nonprofit storytelling: “The sense was if you don’t have images of devastation, you won’t light a fire under anyone—but now we’re seeing hopeful, positive images of impact.” Another key takeaway you’ll find? Who owns the case study? While some organizations leave this to research teams, Tony emphasized the role of marketing in crafting an engaging, visually compelling narrative. Plus, if nonprofits lack resources, they can partner with universities, business associations, and even SCORE (Gov’t agency) to leverage external expertise. The duo wrapped up with a powerful call to action: case studies aren’t just about the past—they should be forward-thinking tools that drive engagement, build donor trust, and inspire action. Whether used for grant applications, board reports, or major donor conversations, these documents must prove why the organization’s work matters.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In the dynamic world of nonprofit fundraising, where digital tools and transactional techniques often dazzle, Sherry Quam Taylor sounds a clarion call back to the essentials—deep, transformational relationships. As we roll into 2025, Sherry delivers a message to fundraisers to ‘refocus on the fundamentals of building meaningful donor connections, rather than chasing the latest tech-driven trends’.Throughout this compelling conversation with host Julia Patrick, Sherry dissects the misconceptions of modern fundraising, emphasizing that while technology and events have their place, they shouldn’t overshadow the power of one-on-one relationships. Too many nonprofit professionals, she warns, have become "glorified admin fundraisers," trapped by the allure of automation and transactional efficiency at the cost of real genuine engagement."We want 50 to 75% of your annual revenue coming from relationships," Sherry offers up . . . "Donors give their best gift because of relationships, not because of flashy campaigns."She challenges NPO leaders to analyze their time and effort allocation, pushing for more data-driven decision-making when it comes to fundraising events. One interesting case study she describes, revealed that less than 20% of a gala’s revenue came from outside donors, prompting the NPO to take a hard look at their ROI.Continuing, Sherry introduces a powerful paradigm shift—leveraging brand authority on platforms like LinkedIn to attract mid-to-major-level donors. "We can’t hide anymore. Our donors need to see us as the thought leaders we are," she says.You’ll agree that Sherry’s insights can push the sector toward a more sustainable, relationship-centered fundraising model, so that nonprofits not only survive but thrive in the coming years. Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The nonprofit world is evolving fast, and as we step into 2025, organizations must embrace key shifts to stay impactful. Meico Marquette Whitlock, a workplace well-being strategist and CEO of Mindful Techie, unpacked the trends that will shape the sector this year!Mental Health Is a Must-Have, Not a Luxury. Burnout is at an all-time high, and nonprofits can no longer afford to treat well-being as an afterthought. Meico underscores the urgency, stating, “Taking care of your people and making sure they are well is the mission. If they’re not taken care of, your mission won’t move forward.”Flexible Work Is Here to Stay. The pandemic changed how we work forever, and successful nonprofits will be those that embrace flexible policies—not just remote work, but truly adaptive structures that prioritize people’s needs and productivity.Soft Skills Matter More Than Ever.  In an AI-driven world, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and human connection will define successful leadership. Technology can enhance efficiency, but it can’t replace the value of being human in the workplace.Authentic and Meaningful Online & Offline Connections. Whether remote, hybrid, or in-office, organizations must be digitally fluid—blending in-person and virtual interactions with intention, ensuring every connection has real value.AI: No Longer a Shiny New Toy. AI is now an operational necessity, but nonprofits must integrate it thoughtfully. From fundraising to donor engagement, organizations need a mission-aligned AI strategy that balances efficiency with ethical considerations.You’ll enjoy this conversation that will help your nonprofit navigate 2025 with clarity, purpose, and soul.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

What happens when data, dedication, and passion collide? A revolution in nonprofit impact measurement! Host Julia Patrick welcomes Adam Luecking, CEO and co-founder of Clear Impact, for an unprecedented live reveal of the 'Social Sector Hero' of the Year 2025!After months of evaluating 60+ nominees from 15+ countries, they announce a game-changing leader in social impact-- the well-deserved winner is FurnitureBank.org! Dan Kershaw, the Executive Director, and his team, redefine what it means to create lasting change, ensuring that homes become more than just four walls—they become spaces of dignity and comfort.Furniture Bank not only provides essential home furnishings but also promotes sustainability by diverting thousands of pounds of furniture from landfills each year. Their impact is immediate and tangible—donated items are often placed in homes within 72 hours, making a real difference in the lives of families, refugees, and individuals transitioning out of homelessness. As Dan puts it: "It’s about creating a home, not just housing."Adam elaborates on the importance of Furniture Bank’s measurable impact: "Their impact was clear and compelling, and the data showed their transformative outcomes for those they serve." Dan highlights the often-overlooked issue of furniture poverty: "The need for food banks is well known, but who thinks about furniture banks? The type of poverty we address happens behind closed doors."This recognition of Furniture Bank showcases the power of data-driven decision-making in the nonprofit sector. Adam describes how ‘Clear Impact Scorecard’ equips organizations like Furniture Bank with tools to measure success, refine strategies, and communicate their results effectively.It’s a testament to how data-driven strategies can revolutionize nonprofit success, proving that numbers tell a powerful story—one of hope, transformation, and measurable impact. Watch, learn, and be inspired! And maybe apply for the award next year for your nonprofit?Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

An essential yet often overlooked aspect of nonprofit fundraising: legal documents. Hosted by Julia Patrick and Tony Beall, this discussion provides an insightful overview of key legal agreements that protect both nonprofits and donors while ensuring compliance and clarity in financial engagements.Tony emphasizes the critical nature of risk management within fundraising, explaining that documents such as donor agreements, gift acceptance policies, and sponsorship agreements are not just formalities but essential tools in establishing trust and accountability. "The fundraising professionals need to know why these documents exist, but it’s really the responsibility of the board and CEO to ensure these processes are in place," Tony says. He highlights that while fundraisers play a role in these agreements, the responsibility lies primarily with the CEO and board.Julia shares real-world anecdotes, illustrating the legal complexities of donor relationships, including the significance of the "bad boy clause"—a provision for addressing potential reputational risks linked to donor behavior. "I think more and more, savvy donors and big players are going to be putting these types of constraints into legal documents," Julia adds.A key part of the discussion centers around pledge agreements and the shift toward recurring donations, showcasing evolving donor expectations and digital giving trends. Sponsorship agreements are also dissected, emphasizing the necessity of clearly defined obligations and contingency plans for unforeseen disruptions.The hosts remind us that while these legal frameworks may not be glamorous, they are indispensable in safeguarding organizational integrity, donor confidence, and sustainable fundraising success.#FundraisingDocuments #Nonprofitfundraising #DonorTrust #fundraisingtoolsFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, and CEO of Cultivate for Good, explores the dynamics of leadership, workforce retention, and strategic collaboration in the nonprofit sector. Wendy, a trusted thought leader, shares a compelling vision for the future, detailing the urgency of prioritizing people as the driving force behind mission success.This lively conversation, hosted by Julia Patrick, opens with a stark reality: the nonprofit sector is facing a 19% turnover rate, a costly and often underestimated challenge. Wendy outlines the financial and organizational impact of constant talent churn, urging leaders to shift from a reactive to a proactive mindset. By investing in career development, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring employees feel valued beyond their paychecks, organizations can improve their retention and stability.Julia and Wendy shift to a critical issue: the traditional “sink or swim” mentality that has long dominated workplace culture. Wendy powerfully refutes this outdated notion, saying that the well-being of nonprofit professionals “is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The workforce has changed, and organizations must evolve with it by embracing a culture of support, development, and inclusion.”Another key topic during their chat is the necessity of strategic collaboration in an era where funding is more competitive than ever. Funders are no longer simply backing well-intentioned initiatives; they are seeking sustainable impact. Wendy points out that nonprofits must shift from competition to collaboration, aligning their individual efforts with like-minded organizations to amplify their reach and effectiveness.The conversation also touches on leadership succession planning, a topic many organizations hesitate to address until it's too late. With many sector leaders preparing to retire, Wendy talks about the value of grooming the next generation of leaders to ensure continuity and mission sustainability. By embedding career growth planning into organizational strategy, NPO’s can cultivate a pipeline of future leaders ready to carry the mission forward.Julia and Wendy wrap up this discussion with an inspiring call to action: it’s time for nonprofit leaders to rethink their approach to people, progress, and partnerships. With a commitment to investing in talent, fostering a culture of well-being, and embracing collaboration, everyone in the sector can navigate the challenges ahead and thrive.  #NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceRetention #StrategicCollaborationFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The CEO of the FreedomFund.org, Nick Grono, discusses his new book, How to Lead Nonprofits: Turning Purpose into Impact to Change the World. Nick shares his deep wisdom on leadership in the nonprofit sector, drawing from his extensive career that transitioned from corporate law and finance to public policy and, ultimately, nonprofit leadership.Nick highlights the Freedom Fund's vital work in combating modern slavery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with over 150 grassroots organizations worldwide. He describes how nonprofit leadership differs from corporate leadership, pointing to the lack of structured training for nonprofit executives. His book addresses this gap by providing practical lessons, drawn from his experience and interviews with other nonprofit leaders.The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, peers into three critical themes: purpose, impact, and collaboration. Nick stresses that ‘purpose’ is the nonprofit sector’s unique superpower, capable of mobilizing teams, funders, and stakeholders to drive systemic change. He also discusses the necessity of investing in leadership development within the NPO space, arguing that funders should recognize leadership support as a vital component of their philanthropic investments.On the topic of ‘collaboration’, Nick acknowledges the challenges yet highlights its transformative potential. He explains how the Freedom Fund operates as a collaborative fund, pooling resources from multiple donors to support common strategies. He also points out that competition for limited funding often discourages collaboration among NPO’s--a problem the Freedom Fund addresses by committing to multi-year funding and fostering cooperative networks among grantees.Another major topic the duo talk about is trust-based philanthropy, an evolving approach that minimizes administrative burdens on grantees while providing unrestricted funding whenever possible. Nick shares how the Freedom Fund employs trust-based giving principles, including simplifying application and reporting requirements, to better serve grassroots organizations.Nick also advocates for “survivor leadership”, ensuring that those with lived experience in human trafficking and forced labor play an active role in shaping solutions. He explains how “frontline partners”, particularly local community organizations, are the linchpins of effective change, elaborating on why solutions must come from within affected communities rather than being imposed externally.This encompassing interview concludes with an inspiring message: nonprofit leaders must continuously realign with their purpose, invest in their leadership, and embrace collaboration to drive meaningful change. Nick’s book serves as a valuable resource for current and aspiring nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their impact. We encourage you to read it! #NonprofitLeadership #PurposeDrivenImpact #FreedomFundFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofit fraud is an unsettling yet critical topic that demands attention. Sandra Magri, Director and Market Leader for New England at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), sheds light on the vulnerabilities nonprofits face and the steps they must take to protect themselves.Sandra, with her extensive experience in nonprofit financial oversight, begins by saying that fraud in the sector is not a matter of "if" but "when." Nonprofits, often operating with limited resources and under immense pressure to fulfill their missions, can unintentionally create an environment ripe for financial mismanagement and fraud. A lack of robust internal controls, combined with a culture that prioritizes mission over financial scrutiny, leaves many organizations exposed.A particularly eye-opening moment in the conversation is the discussion on internal versus external fraud. While external threats like phishing attacks and AI-driven scams are growing concerns, internal fraud—committed by trusted employees—is equally, if not more, dangerous. Sandra tells us the key to prevention lies in strong internal controls, segregation of duties, and fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.Remote financial services, like those provided by YPTC, can act as an additional safeguard, but they are not foolproof. Organizations must ensure that they have secure systems, educate their staff on fraudulent tactics, and encourage open communication to detect and address irregularities swiftly.This fast-paced dialog, with host Julia Patrick, also explores the psychological aspects of fraud prevention. The culture within an organization plays a significant role in either mitigating or enabling fraud. Leaders must create an environment where employees feel safe to report suspicious activity without fear of retribution. Additionally, nonprofits need to implement and enforce financial policies as rigorously as they do other regulatory compliance measures.When fraud does occur, transparency is essential. While the level of disclosure depends on the circumstances, hiding breaches can erode stakeholder trust and inflict long-term reputational damage. By proactively building strong financial policies, utilizing technology-driven safeguards and fostering a fraud-conscious culture, nonprofits can significantly reduce their risk exposure.Watch and you’ll enjoy how Sandra’s expertise explains that while fraud remains an unfortunate reality, nonprofits are not powerless. Awareness, preparation, and decisive action can empower organizations to protect your mission and the communities you serve! #NonprofitFraud #FinancialIntegrity #FraudPreventionFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Fundraising is as much an art as it is a science, requiring an understanding of donor psychology, strategic engagement, and institutional needs. In this episode of Fundraisers Friday, our cohosts dig into the nuanced realities of donor relations, tackling pressing questions about board membership, fundraising portfolios, donor engagement, and wealth screening tools.The lively conversation begins with an ethical debate: Should major donors automatically be granted board seats? Co-host Tony Beall’s response is resolute—financial contributions should not be a ticket to governance. Instead, board membership should be earned through demonstrated commitment, expertise, and alignment with an organization’s strategic vision. He and co-host Julia Patrick explore alternative ways to recognize and honor significant donors, reinforcing the idea that influence should be wielded responsibly and not purchased outright.Transitioning to other aspects of donor engagement, the hosts examine a frequently asked question: How many donors should a fundraiser manage in their portfolio? Tony breaks it down with precision—"major gift officers typically handle 75-150 donors, mid-level fundraisers manage 200-400, and annual fund managers may oversee up to 1,000 donors”. He points to the importance of organizational resources in determining manageable caseloads, describing how technology can play a vital role in optimizing donor stewardship.Post-pandemic donor engagement strategies get the duo’s attention too. Tony advocates for quarterly in-person meetings with major donors, stressing that nothing replaces face-to-face interactions in fostering authentic relationships. He highlights creative and cost-effective ways to meet donors beyond formal settings, reinforcing the idea that ‘real’ engagement is about connection rather than transaction.Finally, their chat turns to wealth screening tools—a topic that often gets mixed reactions from fundraising professionals. Tony offers a pragmatic view: while such tools provide valuable donor insights and improve targeted messaging, they should be evaluated based on an NPO’s  revenue structure and fundraising strategy. For orgs heavily reliant on special events, wealth screening may not be a priority, whereas those seeking to expand individual giving programs might find it indispensable.Throughout this fast-paced session, Julia and Tony blend expertise with humor, making complex fundraising topics engaging fun. #FundraisingStrategy #DonorEngagement #NonprofitLeadershipFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In the world of nonprofits, the journey often begins with a single moment—an unexpected turn that forever alters the trajectory of one's life. For Karen Olson, founder and CEO Emeritus of Family Promise, that moment came when she reached out to a homeless woman outside Grand Central Station with a simple act of kindness—a ham and cheese sandwich and a heartfelt conversation. That exchange illuminated a path she had never envisioned, leading her from a corporate marketing career to a life dedicated to addressing family homelessness in America.In this recent conversation with host Julia Patrick, Karen shares how an impulse to connect with a stranger ultimately transformed not only her own life but also the lives of countless families across the country. "I knew at that point I had crossed an invisible line," she recalls. "I’d always wanted to help people, but I wasn’t sure how. Meeting Millie changed that—I saw her humanity, and it moved me to action."That action led to FamilyPromise.org, an organization that now spans nearly 200 affiliates nationwide, providing critical support services, housing solutions, and volunteer-driven assistance to families experiencing homelessness. But as Karen shares, homelessness is often misunderstood. "For many people, homelessness is the man lying on the subway grate or the woman pushing a shopping cart," she explains. "But actually, 35% of all people experiencing homelessness are members of families—and they are invisible."Through Family Promise, Karen has harnessed the power of small acts of kindness, demonstrating how even the simplest gestures—like an early-morning latte given by a volunteer to a struggling mother—can have profound effects. "You never know how people can be moved by small acts of kindness," she reflects . . . . . "That’s what changes lives."Karen’s story serves as both a call to action and a reminder: Change does not require grand gestures—it begins with recognizing another’s humanity, taking that first step, and allowing purpose to unfold. Learn more about Family Promise at familypromise.org and explore Karen Olson’s book, Meant for More, at karenolsonauthor.com. #NonprofitLeadership #EndHomelessness #ActWithKindnessFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show