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

Struggling to connect with your service users and donors in a meaningful way? On this episode of Small Nonprofit, Ashley Alaniz-Moyer, Executive Director of the Hispanic Scholarship Consortium and co-founder of Refuerzo Collaborative, shares her insights on refreshing your approach to community engagement.  Ashley and Maria discuss innovative ways to build community, reimagine nonprofit events, and foster meaningful engagement among board members, donors, and volunteers.Meaningful Nonprofit Community Engagement – The Highlights:Strategies for hosting engaging nonprofit events that build community.How to create a sense of belonging among volunteers and attendees.Using innovative methods like multi-step programming to increase retention.Tips for fostering community within nonprofit boards.Real-world examples of how creative events can deepen impact and connection.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Ashley Alaniz-Moyer:Ashley has over 15 years of experience working in nonprofits with roles focused in operations, fundraising, marketing, communications, and events. Ashley believes in combining communication and collaboration for maximum impact. She has successfully planned major events that have launched regional education movements. She has led organizations through rebranding efforts and strategic planning processes. Her passion for community building shines through as she shares stories and examples of successful engagement strategies. Links and Resources:  Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hispanic-scholarship-consortium Hispanic Scholarship Consortium Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram - @hispanicscholarHispanic Scholarship Consortium Website - hispanicscholar.orgRefuerzo Collaborative Instagram & Facebook - @refuerzocollaborativeRefuerzo Collaborative Website - refuerzocollaborative.comConnect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/2Qqv_oDwSqA Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Are you constantly exhausted, overwhelmed, and struggling to find the motivation to keep going? In this episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio is joined by the inspiring Kashana Palmer, CEO of Management Co, to explore the importance of rest, humanity, and self-awareness in nonprofit leadership. Together, they discuss how rest and intentionality can transform personal and organizational well-being.This episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit leader who wants to break free from the cycle of burnout and create a more sustainable, fulfilling career. Preventing Nonprofit Burnout – The Highlights:Why rest and self-care are essential for effective nonprofit leadership.The dangers of “martyrdom” in nonprofit work and how to break free.Simple strategies to bring humanity into the nonprofit workplace culture.Practical tips for finding your "sit in the sun" moment.How nonprofit leaders can model healthy behaviors for their staff.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work! We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!About Kishshana Palmer:With 20+ years as a C-Suite executive turned consultant and coach, Kishshana helps organizations down the pathway to success, sustainability, and profitability. She uses her skills and extensive expertise in strategy, raising capital, and team management to review what you’ve done, share what you should be doing, and help you or your organization readjust its course to actualize goals.Links and Resources:  Connect with Kishshana Palmer  on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kishshanapalmer/Check out the website: https://www.managemint.co/The Sticky Teams on-demand training: https://kishshana-co-inc.ck.page/6f9565b1c6 Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/UwHH4L2AIT8 Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Curious about balancing experience and fresh ideas on your nonprofit board? Or seeking ways to keep fundraising events engaging in the digital age? In this special Mother’s Day episode of Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio is joined by Suzanne Wilcox, Director of Developmental Fundraising at Evergreen, and her mother, Martha Schwieters. Together, they share their personal and professional experiences with philanthropy, nonprofit boards, and fundraising strategies across generations.Generational Perspectives on Nonprofit Boards, Fundraising, and Events – The Highlights:Susie and Martha’s journeys into nonprofit leadership.Board diversity as a crucial key for nonprofit success.How generational perspectives influence board participation and fundraising.The pros and cons of modern fundraising events and digital elements.Strategies for building community through inclusivity and feedback.Insights on balancing mission alignment with ambitious campaigns.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Suzanne Wilcox:Suzzane is a Fund Development and Strategic Planning Leader. Through her work at several charitable organizations, a cultural sponsorship agency, and as an industry consultant, she has a deep understanding of non-profit organizations while also being comfortable in a corporate setting. Her work includes fundraising, writing proposals, plans and reports, research projects, business and marketing planning, and feasibility studies.Links and Resources:  Connect with Suzy Wilcox on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-wilcox2019/?originalSubdomain=caCheck out the Evergreen website: https://www.evergreen.ca/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/3jYFMOpeRdI Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

How about turning your LinkedIn profile into a powerful fundraising tool? Join Maria Rio and LinkedIn expert, Michelle Benson, as they share actionable strategies for nonprofits to build their digital presence and attract funders via LinkedIn. In this episode, Michelle discusses how to create content that actually enagges donors and funders as well as how to use the platform for donor prospecting and stewardship. Learn how to connect with funders, enhance your nonprofit’s visibility, and turn LinkedIn into a powerful tool for achieving your fundraising goals.Fundraising on LinkedIn – The Highlights:How to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract funders and partners.Why LinkedIn is the ideal platform for donor prospecting and relationship building.How to spark conversations that lead to direct messages from funders.Tips for creating engaging LinkedIn content that drives donor engagement.How to use LinkedIn’s algorithm to enhance your nonprofit’s visibility and impact.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Michelle Benson:Michelle helps charity leaders and senior fundraisers use LinkedIn to fundraise – especially high value partnerships that you cannot reach off-line. She shows fundraisers and CEOs how to connect and start a relationship on-line and take that off-line, so you can cultivate the people you need to reach to an ask in a GDPR and human friendly way.Links and Resources:  Connect with Michelle Benson on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-benson-creates-digital-pipelines/Check out the Website: https://www.cultureofphilanthropy.co/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/krjZ871CUoo Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Are you constantly losing your best fundraisers? Join Maria Rio and Laura Vitelli, co-founder of Staiger, Vitelli & Associates, as they share actionable insights on how nonprofits can attract, retain, and support their top fundraisers. Laura highlights the challenges fundraisers face, the importance of value alignment, and how to foster a supportive culture that retains top talent. This episode dives deep into boundaries, nonprofit leadership accountability, and strategies to prevent nonprofit burnout, offering practical tips to empower fundraisers and strengthen organizational success.Retaining & Supporting Nonprofit Fundraisers – The Highlights:Why fundraisers leave: Exploring burnout, unrealistic goals, and lack of value alignment.How to foster a supportive, human-centered workplace culture.The role of nonprofit leadership in creating accountability and setting boundaries.Practical steps to attract, retain, and empower fundraisers.The growing need for values-driven fundraising and donor relationships.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Laura Vitelli:Laura Vitelli is a seasoned fundraiser with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of Staiger, VITELLI & Associates. Laura and her business partner Sarah Staiger specialize in helping nonprofits create sustainable fundraising systems through value-based strategies. Together, they provide coaching, training, and strategic planning support to small and mid-sized organizations. Links and Resources: Connect with Laura Vitelli on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/laura-vitelliCheck out the Website: https://www.staigervitelli.com/Director of Development Questions Free Download: https://www.staigervitelli.com/dod Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/rv7hdVLFDy4 Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Can you support your cause AND prioritize worker's rights? Nonprofit workplaces often come with an expectation of self-sacrifice. Staff are expected to work long hours, accept below-market pay, and tolerate unfair conditions – all in service of the mission. But what if there's a better way?Join Maria Rio and Christina Rousseau, a labor organizer and union advocate, to explore the nuanced process of unionizing in the nonprofit sector. Christina shares her firsthand experiences—from organizing her workplace to working within unions—and dives into how unions can balance worker rights with organizational goals. This episode covers key aspects of collective bargaining, power dynamics, and how nonprofits can align union practices with values like equity and community-centric fundraising. Gain actionable insights on protecting workers’ rights, negotiating collective agreements, and navigating the complexities of leadership in unionized nonprofits.Unionizing Nonprofits: Balancing Worker Rights & Organizational Values — The Highlights:Understanding the role of unions in nonprofit organizations.Common challenges and misconceptions about unionization in the nonprofit sector.Balancing equity and values with standardized union practices.Steps for starting a unionization process in your nonprofit.Practical advice for managers and employees navigating unionization.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Christina Rousseau:Having led a successful unionization effort in her former nonprofit role and now working as a union representative, Christina offers a unique 360-degree view of the possibilities and challenges unions bring to the nonprofit sector. Links and Resources:  Connect with Christina Rousseau on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/christina-rousseauCheck out the Website: https://psacunion.ca/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/krjZ871CUooLiked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Does your nonprofit seem to be just scraping by even though everyone is working harder than ever?  It's not just your organization. The nonprofit sector is in crisis, facing issues like shrinking revenue, chronic underfunding, staffing struggles, and increasing demands from the community. Join Maria Rio and Nicole Gagliardi, a nonprofit governance consultant with nearly 20 years of experience, as they discuss the challenges and opportunities within nonprofit governance today. Nicole shares her insights into how nonprofit leadership structures can hinder or help, trends impacting the sector, and how nonprofits can move towards innovative, community-centric governance. This episode explores bold leadership strategies, addressing board challenges, and building capacity for long-term impact.Nonprofit Governance Challenges & Solutions — The Highlights:How nonprofit governance structures impact bold leadership.Addressing the common struggles of nonprofit boards and staff.Trends threatening the nonprofit sector and solutions to adapt.Practical steps for nonprofit organizations to innovate governance models.Why collaborative networks and resource sharing are key for the sector.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Nicole Gagliardi:Nicole helps nonprofit leaders build stronger governance structures, develop effective impact strategies, and enhance organizational capacity. Her goal is to empower organizations to advance their core purpose, successfully and sustainably, even in challenging times. With over 18 years of experience working in and alongside nonprofits, Nicole offers a sober view of the sector's challenges and provides actionable insights on how organizations can start adapting. Links and Resources:  Connect with Nicole Gagliardi  on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolegagliardi1/Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/ujVXfd7qfmM Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Does your nonprofit talk a good game about diversity and inclusion, but the action never seems to follow? Maybe you've been part of mandatory trainings that left you asking, "Okay, but now what??" Join Maria Rio and Jade Pichette, Director of Programs at Pride at Work Canada, as they explore how organizations can implement effective DEI strategies to foster inclusive workplace cultures. With years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Jade shares actionable insights on how to support marginalized communities, repair harm, and create spaces where all employees can thrive. This episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities for nonprofits to lead with inclusion and equity.Creating Inclusive Workplaces: DEI Strategies for Small Nonprofits — The Highlights:How small nonprofits can implement DEI strategies effectively.The importance of inclusive culture and leadership in nonprofits.Practical examples of inclusive practices like leadership chats and accessibility planning.How organizations can repair harm and prioritize equity.The role of inclusion councils and action plans in fostering cultural change.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Jade Pichette:Jade (they/them) is an inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA!) professional based in Tkarón:to/Toronto. Currently, Jade serves as the Director of Programs at Pride at Work Canada, where they work with over 250 large employers across Canada around gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation inclusion. Previously, Jade served as the Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator at the ArQuives, the Education Programs Coordinator at Kind Space, and an independent inclusion consultant. Links and Resources:  Connect with Jade Pichette on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jadepichette and Website: jadepichette.comLearn more about Pride at Work Canada: https://prideatwork.ca/ Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/newWatch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Byz5mGyk0LY Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

Feel like you're constantly chasing, juggling, and maybe even losing ground? Join Maria Rio and communication expert Maryanne Dersch, founder of Courageous Communication, as they discuss how nonprofits can master the art of influence, release fear, and embrace bold communication strategies. Maryanne shares how organizations can stand in their values, build meaningful relationships, and confidently handle criticism while fostering genuine connections. This episode is packed with actionable insights on how nonprofits can effectively communicate, lead, and make an impact without compromising their authenticity.Balancing Confidence And Doubt in Nonprofit Leadership — The Highlights:How to release fear and embrace bold communication strategies.Why criticism and doubt are essential for the growth of your nonprofit.The power of standing in your values and letting go of outcomes.Practical tips for influencing donors and board members.How to foster authentic connections through listening and empowered choice.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies! About Maryanne Dersch:Maryanne specializes in helping nonprofit organizations easily increase their influence and connect with new donors so they can raise more money without feeling rejected, ineffective or pushy. She has spent almost 30 years working in the nonprofit world helping organizations communicate more effectively internally and externally. From those experiences she authored "Courageous Communication: Why codependence is making your nonprofit brand boring and what to do about it."Resources & Links:Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/1-_aVugy33Y  Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show

What if everyone in you nonprofit was a fundraiser? Join Maria Rio as she chats with Tammy Ebuen, Senior Director of Development at Visions of Science, about creating a shared fundraising culture and engaging program staff in fundraising campaigns. Tammy shares her personal journey from HR admin to fundraising leadership and discusses the impact of authentic representation -- highlighting how inclusive work environments lead to more successful fundraising. This episode dives into the power of psychological safety, community-based leadership, and fostering a shared fundraising culture across teams.Building Inclusive Cultures for Fundraising Success — The Highlights:The importance of psychological safety and authentic representation in nonprofits.How inclusive cultures empower fundraisers and enhance donor engagement.Tammy’s unique career journey and how it shaped her fundraising philosophy.Practical tips on creating a shared fundraising culture and engaging program staff.How fostering belonging translates to staff retention and 700K growth.🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, donor engagement, productivity & tools, and nonprofit storytelling strategies!About Tammy Ebuen:Tammy is a savvy, outcomes-focused fundraising generalist with over a decade of professional nonprofit leadership experience. She brings a background in fundraising, human resources, health, education, gender, and social justice within both community-based and international development organizations. Links and Resources:Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/g0SOACjg-lQ Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :)Support the show