Nonprofit Lowdown

Hey, nonprofit leaders! 🎙️ If you’re looking to up your fundraising game, you’re in for a treat. Join me for an incredible workshop that’s set to transform how you approach donor relationships.  In this workshop, I break down my proven strategies for engaging with donors, making major gifts, and turning those one-time contributions into lasting partnerships. 💡 Expect actionable insights, lots of laughter, and a deep dive into making your fundraising efforts more effective and impactful. 🎯 **What You’ll Learn:** - How to identify and engage with potential major donors. - The secrets to successful donor cultivation and solicitation. - Tips for effective email marketing and leveraging social media. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this workshop is packed with practical advice that you can put into action right away. 🔍💰 Let’s get ready to elevate our fundraising game and make a bigger impact together! 💪✨ Important Links: My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey  My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program 

This week, I had an enlightening conversation with Jay Frost about how the old rules of fundraising are DEAD. 🛑 2024 has been a wild ride, especially in the fundraising world, and I’m here to share how you can not only survive but THRIVE in this new landscape. 🌟 Here are some key takeaways: - **Moves Management is Dead**: I explain why the traditional moves management calendar might not be effective in 2024. Instead, focus on creating a customized experience for major donors. 🔄🚫    - **The Power of Individual Giving**: Discover why individual gifts make up a significant portion of fundraising and how to craft a strategy that taps into this potential. 💡💵 - **The Importance of Consent**: Learn how to build authentic relationships with donors by being transparent and asking for permission before making an ask. This approach helps in creating a trust-based partnership rather than just a transactional one. 🤝✨ - **Rethink Wealth Screening**: We discuss the limitations of wealth screenings and why a more holistic approach, including surveys and direct engagement, might be more effective in understanding and connecting with your donors. 📊🔍 If you’re in the nonprofit sector or just curious about the intricacies of major gift fundraising, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to gain insights and strategies that could transform your approach to donor relationships! Important Links: 💥 **Don’t Miss Out:** I’m hosting a FREE webinar on August 15th at 2 PM Eastern to dive deep into the updated strategies you need to succeed. Register at http://rheawong.com .  My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey  My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program 

Ever wondered why nonprofits sometimes seem to fumble when a big donation comes in? 🤔 Join Rhea Wong as she welcomes back Lisa Greer for another insightful conversation on the latest episode of **Nonprofit Lowdown**! In this episode, we dive deep into: 📚 Lisa's new book, **"The Essential Fundraisers Handbook"**—a must-read for anyone in the nonprofit sector. 🚀 Why traditional moves management is outdated and how it's failing both donors and fundraisers. 🛠️ Practical tips for personalizing donor experiences without getting bogged down by understaffed teams. 💡 Why wealth screens might be more creepy than useful and what you can do instead. 🔍 How to really understand and connect with your donors on a human level. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just stepping into the nonprofit world, this conversation is packed with insights that could transform how you engage with donors. Don’t miss out! Important Links: Lisa’s Book: https://a.co/d/0mu1ff9  My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program 

Join Rhea Wong in this solo episode of Nonprofit Lowdown as she shares her top 10 insights and lessons learned from her journey as an Executive Director. This episode is inspired by Brittany, a new Executive Director Rhea met during a recent speech in Vegas. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just stepping into your role, this episode is packed with wisdom that'll help you navigate the challenges and triumphs of being at the top. Key Takeaways: Perceptions Matter: Everything you do will be interpreted by your team, so be mindful of your actions and behaviors. Manage Expectations: No one will meet your high standards perfectly; learn to manage your expectations and delegate effectively. Protect Your Time: Focus on high ROI tasks and protect your most valuable asset—your time. Face Your Fears: The tasks you avoid out of fear are often the ones that will move the needle the most. Hire Slowly, Fire Quickly: Take your time to hire the right people and don't hesitate to let go of those who are detrimental to your culture. Adjust at the Top: The skills that got you to the top won't necessarily help you succeed there. Adapt and evolve. Self-Awareness: Your emotional state impacts your team. Be responsible for managing it. Get a Coach: Even top performers need a coach. An external perspective can help you grow. Find a Community: It's lonely at the top; find a community for support and camaraderie. Choose Happiness: You can be right or you can be happy, but you can't be both. Prioritize your happiness and team cohesion.

In this episode of Nonprofit Lowdown, I sit down with Holly Rustick to explore the nuances of grant writing and discuss the challenges within the nonprofit sector. Holly shares her journey from stumbling into grant writing while abroad, to becoming a seasoned grant writer and nonprofit consultant. We delve into the strategic differences between in-house and freelance grant writers. Holly advocates for freelance grant writers due to their specialized focus and flexibility, contrasting with the often overloaded roles of in-house grant writers who juggle multiple responsibilities. She emphasizes that freelance grant writers can offer tailored expertise without the overhead costs associated with full-time staff. 🌐 Discover why grant writing isn't just about securing funds—it's about building relationships and understanding your nonprofit's impact. Whether you're a nonprofit leader or curious about the grant writing process, this episode is packed with actionable insights! 🎧 Listen and learn how to navigate the grant writing maze to drive your nonprofit’s mission forward. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation with Holly Rustick! Important Links: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/

Navigating the fundraising world as a BIPOC expert comes with its own set of unique challenges.  From overcoming systemic barriers to building impactful relationships in spaces that traditionally haven't embraced diversity. This episode dives into the gritty realities and triumphs of fundraising while black. Christopher Beck is a seasoned Major and Principal Gift Advisor, who shares his journey from accidental fundraiser to powerhouse connector. From early mentors to high-stake donor interactions, Christopher unpacks the nuances of 'relationship capital' and its transformative power in the world of high-level giving. 🎙️ Tune into this insightful conversation to learn how authenticity, resilience, and a deep understanding of donor psychology drive success in fundraising. Whether you’re a BIPOC fundraiser or an ally in the field, this episode is filled with actionable wisdom for everyone. Join us in shifting the narrative towards more equitable fundraising practices. Listen now! Important links:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbeckone/

Ever felt the sting of microaggressions while doing your nonprofit work?  Or perhaps you’ve noticed that most fundraising departments are predominantly white, leaving women of color to navigate tricky, often unwelcoming spaces?  I am here to help as I welcome a powerhouse panel of experts who delve into the world of Black women fundraisers, the difficulties they face, and the importance of inclusive support networks. Learn firsthand from Christal Cherry, Aquanetta Betts, Ninjia Miles, and Christal Crosby as they share their journeys, insights, and powerful advice. ⭐Christal Cherry: Founder of F3 (Fabulous Female Fundraisers) and a veteran in the nonprofit sector, her career is a testament to resilience and the power of community. ⭐Aquanetta Betts: Director of Planned Giving at George Mason University, Aquanetta emphasizes the importance of creating knowledge-sharing spaces within the fundraising community.  ⭐Ninjia Miles: Director of Development for Black Philanthropy at Indiana University Foundation, Ninjia provides insights into the philanthropic contributions of communities of color and the critical need for diverse fundraisers who understand these nuances. ⭐Christal Crosby: Director of Events and Programs at Case Western University, Christal shares her experiences and the importance of institutions preparing adequately to support and integrate diverse leadership. Navigating the nonprofit sector can be a daunting task, especially for women of color.  This episode provides not only a candid discussion but practical advice for executive directors on how to foster an inclusive culture that truly supports BIPOC fundraisers.  Don’t miss out on this critical conversation! Hit play on this insightful episode of Nonprofit Lowdown to arm yourself with the knowledge and tools to make lasting, positive changes in your organization.  Let's create a more inclusive world, one fundraiser at a time! Important Links:  fabfemalefundraisers.org

Ever been at a networking event and felt a sense of dread when asked to "tell me about yourself"? 😃 Or maybe you've done the opposite and talked so much you never gave the other person a chance to reply?  In this informative episode of Nonprofit Lowdown, I sit down with Rebecca Okamoto, a branding and communications expert, to discuss the art of making great first impressions.  🔥 Whether you're at a cocktail party or a high-stakes fundraising event, Rebecca's insights will help you navigate these situations with confidence. Rebecca Okamoto is driven by a mission to amplify the voices that are often ignored or silenced. With an impressive 29-year career at Procter & Gamble, Rebecca's now focused on elevating diverse voices into executive positions, ensuring they have the power to make strategic decisions.  Her passion for helping others find and project their voice makes her the perfect guest to tackle the topic of first impressions! Don't miss this episode if you're looking to transform the way you network. Rebecca offers practical advice you can start using immediately to make sure you're seen, heard and valued.  Tune in to get the tools you need to walk into every room with confidence. Listen now for insights on: 🎤 Navigating first impressions in high-stakes environments 🎤 The importance of projecting confidence and competence Important Links:  20words.com

Are you stressed from endlessly chasing to-do lists? This week, we dive into why the relentless hustle can leave executive directors of nonprofits running on fumes and what you can do about it. 👀 Kishshana Palmer makes a much-anticipated return to the show, and this conversation is nothing short of a revelation. We explore the intersection of personal wellness and leadership in the nonprofit sector—why neglecting self-care harms not just you, but also the causes you’re so passionate about.  Kishshana, a renowned speaker, trainer, and the Beyoncé of our nonprofit world, brings her unique insights to the table, and trust me, you won’t want to miss this! As an author, speaker, and influencer (yes, I dared to say it), she's known for her straight talk and infectious energy.  🌟If there’s a beacon of hope and wisdom on how to balance passion with personal wellness, it’s Kishshana. She believes in actionable strategies and is here to challenge the outdated notion that suffering is a badge of honor in our sector. Curious about strategies to strike a balance between your relentless drive and personal well-being?  This episode is packed with practical tips and much-needed motivation for nonprofit leaders who are always giving but seldom taking time for themselves.  Grab your coffee, put your feet up, and join us for a chat that might just change your perspective on work-life balance.  Important Links:  https://www.kishshanapalmer.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kishshanapalmer/ Preorder her book: https://www.amazon.com/Busy-Four-Letter-Word-Achieving/dp/1394243197 Christmas In June deal: https://rheawong--outintheboons.thrivecart.com/christmas-in-june-black-friday-bundle/

Do your donor relationships feel like transactional nightmares or mutually beneficial partnerships? Post 2020, many nonprofit executive directors find themselves wrestling with dwindling donor bases, transactional relationships, and the struggle to turn one-time gifts into enduring support. The transactional approach is not only soul-sucking for your staff but also ineffective for fostering long-term donor relationships. The same old tactics just won’t cut it if you want to attract and nurture the donors of tomorrow. Today’s guest, Allison Fine of Every.org has dedicated her career to merging technology with social good. From her early days in the nonprofit sector to writing influential books like The Networked Nonprofit and The Smart Nonprofit, Allison has been a thought leader and advocate for ethical, relational fundraising.  Tune in to this episode to hear Allison Fine's fresh take on turning fundraising from a transactional nightmare into a relational dream.  Trust me, you won't want to miss this one! Important Links: https://www.every.org/    Allison Fine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-fine-a07132/ Governance as Leadership: A Conversation with William Ryan (https://www.bridgespan.org/insights/governance-as-leadership-a-conversation-with-willi)