Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell

Today, we're diving into the world of nonprofit websites and how to make them more user-friendly to better serve your mission and engage your audience. I'm thrilled to welcome our guest, Spencer Brooks, an expert in web design and digital marketing for nonprofits.Spencer Brooks is the Founder & Principal of Brooks Digital, a website development and usability studio for nonprofits, particularly those in the health space. He has over a decade of experience leading projects for organizations with complex, high-traffic websites, such as the YMCA and The diaTribe Foundation. His writing has been featured in publications such as the Stanford Social Innovation Review, TechSoup, and Nonprofit Marketing Guide.Today’s episode is brought to you by my  friends at DonorPerfect. It’s an all-in-one fundraising software solution that helps fundraisers save time and raise more money. In fact, new DonorPerfect users typically raise 25% more funding in their first year. DonorPerfect is trusted by over 50,000 nonprofit professionals with everything they need for efficient fundraising, so they can spend their time where it truly matters: on nurturing real, authentic relationships with their donors. Learn more at DonorPerfect.comAbout Spencer BrooksSpencer Brooks is the Founder & Principal of Brooks Digital, a website development and usability studio for nonprofits, particularly those in the health space. He has over a decade of experience leading projects for organizations with complex, high-traffic websites, such as the YMCA and The diaTribe Foundation. His writing has been featured in publications such as the Stanford Social Innovation Review, TechSoup, and Nonprofit Marketing Guide.Connect with Spencer on LinkedInVisit Brooks Digital's websiteBlog: The Complete Guide to Nonprofit Website User Experience (UX)Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What makes a nonprofit successful? A lot of things. An engaged donor base, for example. Enthusiastic Board members. A compelling case for support. Those are all necessary to grow your organization and sustain your mission. But a critically important and often overlooked element is the employee. Nonprofits suffer higher turnover than any other sector. The nonprofit turnover rate clocks in at just over 21% and the overwhelming majority of that is voluntary. Surveys show that nearly half of nonprofit employees will seek other jobs by 2025. So what can be done? This is where a successful employee retention strategy comes in. My guest is the one-and-only Kishshana Palmer, Kishshana is CEO of ManageMint Inc., an organizational development firm focused on helping everyday leaders live well and lead well. In this episode, Kishshana will unravel the secrets behind creating sticky teams and boosting employee retention. Listeners, if you found today's discussion insightful and want to learn more about creating sticky teams and boosting employee retention, don't forget to check out the on-demand training at www.managemint.co/freeresources. Success is within reach, and it starts with investing in your team's growth and well-being. Thank you for tuning in, and until next time, keep leading with purpose and compassion.Today’s episode is brought to you by my  friends at DonorPerfect. It’s an all-in-one fundraising software solution that helps fundraisers save time and raise more money. In fact, new DonorPerfect users typically raise 25% more funding in their first year. DonorPerfect is trusted by over 50,000 nonprofit professionals with everything they need for efficient fundraising, so they can spend their time where it truly matters: on nurturing real, authentic relationships with their donors. Learn more at DonorPerfect.comAbout Kishshana PalmerKishshana Palmer is an international speaker, trainer, and coach with a 20+ year background in fundraising, marketing, and talent management who helps leaders create high performing teams. Kishshana is CEO of ManageMint, Inc., an organizational development firm focused on helping everyday leaders live well and lead well. Her firm's work centers on equity and social justice and practical solutions for today’s organizations. She is the founder of The Rooted Collaborative -- a global community focused on the growth and development of women leaders of color in the social sector. She's the host of the podcast "ManageMint Made Easy" formerly "Let's Take This Offline", an adjunct professor at Baruch College, a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), a BoardSource Certified Governance Trainer (CGT), A Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, a Q3LC Certified Coach and an AFP MasTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

As the U.S. gears up for the 2024 presidential election, nonprofit professionals find themselves at the intersection of philanthropy and politics, considering the unique challenges and opportunities that come with fundraising during an election year. My guest this week is Alyssa Wright, industry expert on fundraising. Having spent time as a human rights activist in Eastern Europe and Africa, Alyssa brings over a decade of experience in international philanthropy to Wright Collective. With a background in community organizing and the arts, Alyssa leads the Collective with skill, creativity, and passion. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of setting fundraising goals for 2024, drawing reflections from historical trends, research, and insightful analyses.This episode is sponsored by RSVPify. At RSVPify, you can host ticketed events for free - no subscription required. Host any free event with a monthly or annual subscription. Use the code NONPROFITNATION50 at checkout for an 50% off any annual subscription (discount applied for first year only) - or 50% off any monthly subscription for three months (billed at full rate subsequently).About Alyssa WrightHaving spent time as a human rights activist in Eastern Europe and Africa, Alyssa brings over a decade of experience in international philanthropy to Wright Collective. With a background in community organizing and the arts, Alyssa leads the Collective with skill, creativity, and passion. As an accomplished facilitator, consultant, and coach, she builds new revenue streams, shifts cultural perspectives, and inspires people to believe that change is possible no matter what.She has helped hundreds of both domestic and global social change organizations successfully launch major gifts programs, capital campaigns, and create sustainable funding models resulting in over $100,000,000 of resource flow. Everyone that has worked with Alyssa knows that she is a true partner. She answers late-night text messages, takes on difficult conversations for clients, and makes jokes that will keep clients smiling through rejected proposals and rained-out fundraising events. Her experience and wit has also allowed her to become a sought-after speaker on philanthropy and fund development as well as a regular contributor to ForbesWomen, Global Giving, and Network for Good. Alyssa is a powerful Millennial voice in the social change movement. Fun Fact: Alyssa has had to handle a lot of stressful and harmful situations as a fundraiser over the last decade including a funder revoking a seven-figure gift at the last minute, sexual harassment while stewarding a male donor over the years, and having to fire and rebuild an entire board of directors in a few weeks. No situation seems unknown to her as a fundraiser.Email: allysa@wrightcollective.coConnect with Alyssa on LinkedInBlog: Elevate Your Fundraising Strategy: Practical Tips for Election Year ChallengesBlog: Navigating social media marketing in an election yearTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Financial sustainability is crucial, but social impact is the heart of nonprofits. With the social enterprise model, how can we ensure that our organization prioritizes its social mission while maintaining a viable business? My guests today are Quilen and Hannah Blackwell, the co-founders of Southside Blooms, an off-grid flower farm youth social enterprise where participants convert vacant lots into commercial flower farms using solar powered rainwater irrigation. This creates jobs for young people on the south and west sides of Chicago.Hannah and Quilen were married in 2015, and immediately set up the Chicago Eco House, a rehabbed two flat greystone property in the heart of Englewood and got to work getting to know the community. Soon they were farming several vacant lots close to their house, constantly researching what would fulfill their mission of using sustainability to alleviate poverty. It became clear that flowers would be the avenue to do this and Southside Blooms was born.In this episode, we discuss:How Southside Blooms empowers at-risk youth through urban flower farming.The benefits of the social enterprise model for long-term financial sustainability in nonprofits.Balancing earned income with maintaining a charitable mission.Real-life examples of how Southside Blooms has transformed lives.This episode is sponsored by RSVPify. At RSVPify, you can host ticketed events for free - no subscription required. Host any free event with a monthly or annual subscription. Use the code NONPROFITNATION50 at checkout for an 50% off any annual subscription (discount applied for first year only) - or 50% off any monthly subscription for three months (billed at full rate subsequently).Guest Bios: Quilen and Hannah Blackwell are the co-founders of Southside Blooms, an off-grid flower farm youth social enterprise where participants convert vacant lots into commercial flower farms using solar powered rainwater irrigation. This creates jobs for young people on the south and west sides of Chicago.Check out Southside BloomsTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Nearly half of fundraisers say they did not meet pipeline goals in the last fiscal year. ‘Staff turnover,’ ‘manual processes,’ and ‘donor discovery and pipeline management’ were cited by respondents as key challenges faced in 2023, according to a new report by Gravyty, a leader in engagement and fundraising technology.  The report breaks down findings from Gravyty’s Donor Engagement and Pipeline Survey, which solicited feedback from leaders representing 160+ fundraising departments, including higher education, K12 and nonprofit organizations.In this episode, Josh Robertson, Global VP of Product at Gravyty, breaks down the findings of this report, as well as recommendations and takeaways for nonprofits of all sizes.This episode is sponsored by RSVPify. At RSVPify, you can host ticketed events for free - no subscription required. Host any free event with a monthly or annual subscription. Use the code NONPROFITNATION50 at checkout for an 50% off any annual subscription (discount applied for first year only) - or 50% off any monthly subscription for three months (billed at full rate subsequently).About Josh RobertsonJosh Robertson is the Global VP of Product at Gravyty. With over 20 years of experience in fundraising, Josh has a proven track record of developing data-driven strategies based on cross-channel analysis of client performance and building successful product roadmaps. He is enthusiastic about helping fundraisers realize the opportunities which exist when you recognize and act on strategic changes that lead to big results.Connect with Josh on LinkedInEmail: josh.robertson@gravyty.comTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, Julia Campbell sits down with Candie Fredritz, the Director of Alumni and Parent Engagement at Kent School, a prestigious 9-12 boarding school in Kent, Connecticut. Candie shares her journey from a young worker in the school's stables to her current role, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering strong connections between the school's past and present.We discuss: How Kent School leveraged Zoom and other digital platforms to stay connected with alumni and parents during the pandemic.Overcoming significant challenges such as finding a new registration platform under tight deadlines and re-engaging alumni from different decades.Candie’s goals for the future of alumni and parent engagement at Kent School.Tips for other schools and organizations on engaging alumni and parents, and using technology effectively.This episode is sponsored by RSVPify. At RSVPify, you can host ticketed events for free - no subscription required. Host any free event with a monthly or annual subscription. Use the code NONPROFITNATION50 at checkout for an 50% off any annual subscription (discount applied for first year only) - or 50% off any monthly subscription for three months (billed at full rate subsequently).About Candie FredritzCandie Fredritz serves as the Director of Alumni and Parent Engagement at Kent School, a 9-12 boarding school nestled in the picturesque landscape of Kent, Connecticut. With a keen understanding of the evolving needs of both alumni and parents, Candie is dedicated to bridging the gap between the school's rich history and its vibrant present by connecting alumni and current students in meaningful ways.Drawing upon her experience in community outreach and relationship building, Candie's primary mission is to ensure that today's Kent resonates deeply with alumni and parents, both past and present, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among its diverse stakeholders. She is committed to meeting them where they are, whether it's through innovative digital platforms, engaging events, or personalized interactions. Candie continues to strengthen the bonds that unite Kent's past, present, and future.In her free time, Candie enjoys time with her two sons and three dogs. She is also involved with her local community and currently serves as Vice-President of Hope Rising Farm Therapeutic Riding Center, LLC in Amenia, NY.Connect with Candie on LinkedInTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

You may enjoy the work you do, but you wish more than anything you had more time to simply sit, think, and hear your own thoughts. The truth is - if you really want to make a difference, you must start by taking time for yourself right now because you can’t “change the world” if you’re not around long enough to make that happen.My guest on this episode can relate. Meico Whitlock was on the verge of complete burnout, until he had “a breakdown that led to a breakthrough.” He’s now a recovering workaholic and a certified mindfulness teacher. Meico founded his company, Mindful Techie™ to help overworked professionals take an intentional, mindful, and trauma-informed approach to enhancing wellbeing and productivity by improving relationships with work, life, and technology. Meico is a former triathlete, loves salsa dancing, and makes the world’s best vegan chili!Today we discuss the themes in his new book How to Thrive When Work Doesn’t Love You Back: A Practical Guide for Taking Care of Yourself While Changing The World (foreword by Beth Kanter)This episode is sponsored by RSVPify. At RSVPify, you can host ticketed events for free - no subscription required. Host any free event with a monthly or annual subscription. Use the code NONPROFITNATION50 at checkout for an 50% off any annual subscription (discount applied for first year only) - or 50% off any monthly subscription for three months (billed at full rate subsequently).About Meico WhitlockMeico is The Mindful Changemaker and The Mindful Techie. He works with changemakers who want to improve their well-being so they can sustainably increase their well-doing in changing the world. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller How to Thrive When Work Doesn’t Love You Back: A Practical Guide for Taking Care of Yourself While Changing the World and The Intention Planner.Meico is a former triathlete, loves salsa dancing, and makes the world’s best vegan chili!He has worked for more than two decades across the non-profit, public, and private sectors leveraging information and communications technology to improve well-being in underserved communities as a software and web developer, communications director, trainer and facilitator, and mindfulness teacher.As a transformational speaker, trainer, and coach, he facilitates transformative experiences that foster well-being in a hybrid world. He has worked with organizations such as the U.S. Federal Government, Cigna, and the World Wildlife Fund, and has been a featured speaker on ABC News, Fox 5, and Radio One. He holds an M.S. in Information Science from the University of Michigan and a B.A. in Political Science and Spanish from Morehouse College. He is also a certified trauma-informed mindfulness teacher.Connect with Meico on LinkedInJoin the Mindful Techie mailing listThe Mindful Techie PodcastTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Economic instability, wars, climate change, and a changing labor landscape have left businesses, organizations, and individuals feeling helpless and defeated. In actuality, too many people and organizations are lacking clarity and purpose. Maybe “outrageous kindness” is the change catalyst we need.My guest is Kristina Joy Carlson, CFRE, renowned philanthropy expert, entrepreneur, and speaker. A sought-after speaker and co-author of the best-selling Essential Principles for Fundraising Success, Kristina doesn’t just help institutions raise money; she facilitates the transformation of people’s lives, organizations, and the world through outrageous kindness.We discuss Kristina’s signature KIND Method—a roadmap to a better life and a triple bottom line for businesses and nonprofits.About Kristina Joy CarlsonA sought-after speaker and co-author of the best-selling Essential Principles for Fundraising Success, Kristina Joy Carlson doesn’t just help organizations raise money; she facilitates the transformation of people’s lives, organizations, and the world through a practice of outrageous kindness. Three decades in fundraising and entrepreneurship and an almost decade-long gauntlet of personal loss have taught Kristina she always has control over her purpose, perspective, and actions. Leveraging that wisdom, she helps nonprofit institutions across the globe secure the philanthropic resources they need to maximize their impact, including Habitat for Humanity International, World Vision International, and Susan Komen. Founder of the KIND Method and Managing Director of Global Philanthropy at Carter, Kristina guides transformational capital campaigns, advises on 8-figure gifts and grants, creates bespoke training programs, and develops innovative technologies for some of the world’s largest nonprofit organizations. She also helps maximize the philanthropic engagement of former US Presidents and other heads of state, Fortune 500 CEOs, Forbes 400 individuals, faith leaders, celebrities, and everyday people. Through her roles at Carter Global, Ketchum, and FundraisingINFO.com, Kristina has supported thousands of organizations worldwide, providing counsel on major campaigns in healthcare, education, the arts, youth organizations, national and international organizations, and smaller grassroots organizations. Her mission is to inspire leaders, philanthropists, and professionals to practice outrageous kindness as they define and take mission-critical actions, create accountability systems, and experience the magic of philanthropy. With a master’s degree in Community Economic Development from New Hampshire College, Kristina lives in Oxford, Mississippi, where she starts each morning with Tazo Awake black tea and a quick round of Plants vs. Zombies.Connect with Kristina on LinkedInVisit the OutrageousKindness WebsiteCarter Global | Kristina Joy CarlsonTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

From its potential in donor engagement and fundraising to enhancing program effectiveness, AI has shown that it can amplify the impact of nonprofits. How can we peel back the layers of AI's transformative potential in the nonprofit sector to go beyond the hype to see what’s really working and how it can help us in the trenches? In this conversation, Julia Campbell interviews Justin L. Spelhaug, Corporate Vice President and Global Head of Tech for Social Impact at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Nathaniel Cook, Chief Information Technology Officer of Special Olympics International. They discuss the transformative potential of AI in the nonprofit sector, focusing on inclusivity and productivity.  TakeawaysInvolving the community in the development and implementation of AI tools is crucial for ensuring inclusivity and effectiveness.Ethical considerations, such as fairness and bias, are important when deploying AI in the nonprofit sector.AI tools can significantly improve productivity and efficiency, allowing nonprofit staff to focus on impactful work.Measuring the success and outcomes of using AI tools can be done through surveys, time savings estimation, and tracking productivity gains.Nonprofits can start incorporating AI by using free resources like Microsoft Co-Pilot and taking advantage of training programs and learning pathways.About Nathan Cook, CIO of the Special Olympics InternationalNathaniel Cook is the Chief Information and Technology Officer of Special Olympics, a global movement that unleashes the human spirit through the transformative power and joy of sports. He leads the strategic vision, direction, and execution of the organization’s information and technology initiatives across more than 220 countries and territories. He develops, integrates, and optimizes the Special Olympics information systems and technology platforms, ensuring their alignment with the organization’s goals, values, and standards. He also fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration within the Special Olympics network, leveraging technology to enhance the quality and impact of the programs and services offered to more than six million athletes and their families. About Justin Spelhaug, Vice President & Global Head – Tech for Social ImpactAs the leader for the Tech for Social Impact in Microsoft, Justin brings together 25 years of experience spanning commercial and social businesses.  Prior to his current role, Justin served as the Chief Marketing & Operations Officer for Microsoft Asia Pacific spending over 7 years of his career working across developed and emerging Asian markets.  Justin also helped to launch the Unlimited Potential organization within Microsoft, with a focus on developing new and more affordable computing solutions to close the digital divide for lower income societies globally.Resources:www.SpecialOlympics.orghttps://www.linkedin.com/learning/paths/career-essentials-in-generative-ai-by-microsoft-and-linkedinMicrosoft for Nonprofits LinkedInTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

In this episode, I sit down with Seth Godin to discuss the future of nonprofit fundraising, how to reach more donors with your message, and how his new venture GOODBIDS is turning charity auctions and fundraising upside down and inside out.Seth is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, and speaker. In addition to launching one of the most popular blogs in the world, he's written 21 best selling books, including the Dip Linchpin, Purple Cow Tribes, and what to do when it's your turn. And it's always your turn. His book and my favorite of his "This is Marketing" was an instant bestseller in countries around the world.Though renowned for his writing and speaking, Seth also founded two companies, Squidoo and Yo Yodine, acquired by Yahoo. By focusing on everything from effective marketing and leadership to the spread of ideas and changing everything, Seth has been able to motivate and inspire countless people around the world.Visit Seth's blogTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts