IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders’ Podcast

In this episode, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Jillian Vukusich, CAP, Executive Director of Lost Tree Foundation, for a candid and insightful conversation about what it really takes to build strong donor-funder relationships in the nonprofit world. From fostering trust and transparency to understanding the evolving needs of communities, Jillian offers a wealth of practical advice and heartfelt reflections. Together, they explore why small and mid-sized donors are just as crucial as major gifts, how open communication can transform partnerships, and the true value of listening to and engaging all donors. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with actionable tips and thought-provoking ideas to help you create meaningful connections that maximize impact. Takeaways Building strong relationships through trust, honesty, and transparency is essential in fundraising and grant-making. Understanding community needs and fostering open communication lead to more effective partnerships and impactful grant-making. Small to mid-sized donors play a vital role in nonprofit stability and deserve engagement alongside major donors. Knowing the decision-making structure in foundations helps nonprofits tailor their approach and maximize opportunities. Maintaining relationships with all donors builds trust and can lead to significant, long-term funding opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability Podcast 01:32 Understanding the Donor-Funder Relationship 04:22 The Role of Fundraising and Grant Making 08:37 Building Resilient Relationships with Grantees 10:58 The Importance of Transparency in Grant Making 13:27 Navigating Decision-Making in Foundations 22:18 Aligning Community Needs with Donor Intentions 25:39 The Value of Small to Mid-Sized Donors 27:33 Final Thoughts on Fundraising and Relationships Guest Bio Jillian joined Lost Tree Foundation as Executive Director in 2015. Lost Tree Foundation’s annual grants program provides nearly $4 million for capital projects each year in the areas of health, homelessness, hunger and education. Jillian previously served in leadership roles at the Community Foundation Martin St. Lucie and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Jillian is an alumnus of the Hull Fellows Program through Philanthropy Southeast and has served in a variety of capacities for organizations such as the Council on Foundations, Exponent Philanthropy and Florida Philanthropic Network. She holds degrees from American University and University of South Florida as well as the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® designation from The American College. Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review. Like this episode? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcasting app. Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional? Email your questions to <a...

In this episode, host Josh Hirsch speaks with Dolly Farrell, Executive Director of the Charitable Foundation of the Islands. Dolly shares her journey from a frontline fundraiser in higher education to leading a community foundation focused on collaborative philanthropy. They explore the importance of personal connections in fundraising, the impact of COVID-19 on nonprofit operations, and the role of cultural competency in program development. Dolly highlights how nonprofits can support one another, especially in times of crisis, and offers insights into innovative ways to amplify their impact. Takeaways Early Start, Mentorship, and Personal Connections: Dolly’s journey began at a young age, with mentorship shaping her path and personal connections enhancing fundraising success. Stewardship and Collaboration: Fundraisers act as stewards of donor contributions, and nonprofits thrive by collaborating to amplify their impact, especially during crises. Adapting to Challenges with Innovation: COVID-19 prompted nonprofits to reassess strategies and develop innovative solutions to meet emerging needs. Cultural Competency in Program Development: Cultural awareness plays a vital role in creating programs that effectively serve diverse communities. Community Foundations and Networking: Community foundations drive rapid crisis response, and building strong professional networks is essential for long-term success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability Podcast 02:53 Dolly Farrell's Nonprofit Journey 08:59 Transitioning from Higher Education to Community Impact 13:52 Collaborative Philanthropy Post-COVID 22:45 Coaches Corner: Cultural Competency in Nonprofits 28:22 Navigating Challenges in Nonprofit Leadership 35:50 The Role of Community Foundations 40:30 Building Collaborative Networks for Nonprofits 46:30 Empowering Local Businesses and Nonprofits Guest Bio Dolly Farrell is a nonprofit executive with over twenty years’ experience serving three universities and charitable organizations providing affordable housing, at-risk youth interventions, leadership development programs and environmental protection. Raised on the Jersey Shore, Dolly lived in North Carolina for ten years before moving to Southwest Florida in 2013. She joined the Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) on October 3rd, 2022, as the organization’s first Executive Director, after nine years at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Foundation. Dolly earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Loyola University of MD in 1998 and a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University in 2006. Dolly’s husband Liam was raised on Fort Myers Beach after his parents moved to SWFL 41 years ago. Dolly and Liam were married in Fort Myers on New Years Eve 2005 and spent every winter holiday in Fort Myers thereafter. Each trip included a drive over the Sanibel Causeway for vacation. While celebrating their anniversary at Tween Waters in 2012, Dolly and Liam decided to make the move permanently and relocated to Fort Myers with their two daughters in 2013. Liam has served in various capacities in Lee County Schools since 2013, currently serving his alma mater as Assistant Principal at Cypress Lake High School. Rory (15 years of age) attends Cypress Lake High School as a sophomore; Neeve (13) attends Cypress Lake Middle School and is in 8th grade. Both girls run track, cross country, and play competitive soccer – keeping their parents very busy almost every weekend. Leave a review!Reviews are hugely...

In this episode, host Josh Hirsch speaks with digital marketing expert Jay Key about how digital marketing has evolved in the nonprofit sector. Together, they discuss why measurability is vital in today’s campaigns, how to effectively budget for digital marketing efforts, and the role of platforms like LinkedIn for reaching targeted audiences. Jay shares insights on the importance of learning from failures, understanding conversion pixels, and building a robust digital presence. This engaging conversation highlights the ongoing need for nonprofits to embrace continuous learning in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Takeaways Measurability has transformed nonprofit marketing, making clear goal-setting essential for effective campaigns. LinkedIn and audience targeting offer nonprofits powerful tools for reaching the right people. Learning from failures and adapting to digital trends fosters growth and keeps marketing relevant. First-party data and conversion pixels are crucial for tracking success in a cookie-less world. Budgeting should align with objectives to maximize campaign impact. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability Podcast 01:57 The Evolution of Digital Marketing 03:18 Measurability in Marketing Campaigns 10:00 Budgeting for Nonprofit Marketing 15:12 Leveraging LinkedIn for Nonprofits 18:03 Learning from Failures in Marketing 29:24 Understanding Conversion Pixels 35:36 Building a Digital Presence 39:58 The Importance of Continuous Learning Guest Bio Jay Key has two decades of marketing experience, primarily in the digital media and ad tech industry, as both a seller of marketing solutions at News Corp, Sizmek, and Viant (Time, Inc.); and a client-side marketer at Keurig Dr Pepper and Susan G. Komen. He has worked for some of the most progressive ad tech firms and for (or with) some of the biggest brands in the consumer packaged goods, retail, auto, and non-profit verticals, and inclusive of programmatic, social, search, video, emerging platforms, and in-housing. His 2020 book, Shopper Marketing and Digital Media: Simplifying Your Digital Media Plans with the Six Pillars Approach, earned Best New Digital Marketing Books (Book Authority), Top 29 Digital Marketing Books to Read in 2020 (News Books USA), and Ten Insightful Books for Shopper Marketers (Totinomo.com). Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review. Like this episode? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple,  Spotify, or your favorite podcasting app. Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional? Email your questions to IMPACTcoaches@IMPACTability.net and listen to next episode to see if your question gets answered!

In this episode, host Josh Hirsch, MS speaks with Scott Fischer, a seasoned entrepreneur in the power sports industry, about his journey from a young motorcycle enthusiast to a successful dealership owner and philanthropist. Scott shares insights on the importance of following one's passion, the role of mentorship in business, and how philanthropy can be integrated into business strategies. He emphasizes the need for nonprofits to adopt a business mindset to enhance their impact and discusses the significance of investing in capacity building for charitable organizations. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of business and philanthropy, advocating for a collaborative approach to community support.TakeawaysScott Fischer’s passion for motorcycles fueled his entrepreneurial journey, turning his love into a successful career.Mentorship and developing others are key to success in both business and nonprofits.Philanthropy can be woven into business operations, with employee engagement enhancing community impact.Nonprofits need to clearly communicate their needs and invest in capacity building to grow and sustain their efforts.Collaboration between businesses and charities amplifies impact, focusing on long-term sustainability through time, talent, and treasure.Chapters00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability Podcast01:28 Scott Fisher's Journey in Power Sports05:24 The Entrepreneurial Mindset and Passion08:12 Philanthropy as a Business Strategy11:52 Engaging Employees and Customers in Philanthropy14:29 Finding Balance in Philanthropic Efforts17:25 Investing Time, Talent, and Treasure21:37 Strategic Impact Philanthropy28:33 Legacy and Future of PhilanthropyGuest BioRaised in the heart of Columbus, Ohio, Scott Fischer’s journey with the exhilarating world of power sports began at the young age of 13 when he purchased his first motorcycle. Over 45 years, Scott has been a driving force in the motorcycle business, owning and managing multiple successful dealerships. As a leader, motivator, husband, and father, he brings passion to every aspect of his life. Scott is dedicated to making a positive impact, both in business and as a philanthropist. He believes in giving back to his community that has supported him throughout his journey. Whether it’s through charitable initiatives or actively participating in community events, Scott find’s joy in contributing to the well-being of others. Scott’s journey is defined by a commitment to excellence, inspiring those around him to embrace the thrill of the ride.Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review.Like this episode? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcasting app.Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional? Email your questions...

In this episode, Ligia Peña, a CFRE and president of Globetrotting Fundraiser, discusses the importance of legacy planning and starting a planned giving program for nonprofits. She emphasizes the need to understand donor engagement and focus on gifts and wills as the primary vehicle for planned giving. Ligia also highlights the importance of starting small, analyzing donor data, and seeking help from experts or consultants. The key takeaway is to just start and take small steps towards building a successful planned giving program.TakeawaysLegacy planning and planned giving are essential for nonprofits to secure future funding.Focus on gifts and wills as the primary vehicle for planned giving.Understand donor engagement and non-financial indicators to identify potential planned giving donors.Start small, analyze donor data, and seek help from experts or consultants to build a successful planned giving program.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship01:00 Ligia Peña’s Background and Inspiration for Globetrotting Fundraiser02:53 The Importance of Legacy Planning and Fundraising for Nonprofits05:12 Delving into Donor Data and Engagement07:32 Different Types of Planned Gifts and Focusing on Gifts and Wills09:58 Non-Financial Indicators and Engaging Donors Properly11:23 The Role of Stewardship and Delighting Donors13:51 Sprinkling Legacy Messaging in Existing Communication Tools16:14 Starting with Gifts and Wills and Building from There18:06 Avoiding Overwhelm and Focusing on Simple Strategies20:59 Comparing Plan Giving in the US, UK, and France25:26 Coaches Corner: Increasing Engagement of Nonprofit Email Newsletters31:29 Starting a Plan Giving Program: Three Key Steps38:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Start TodayGuest BioLigia Peña, CFRE is President of GlobetrottingFundraiser, specializing in helping charities develop & implement their fundraising and legacy strategy. She's also a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Kent, researching national legacy marketing campaigns. As an AFP Master Trainer, she’s trained countless fundraisers around the globe. She's a sought-after and seasoned international presenter who enjoys sharing her knowledge and empowering nonprofits professionals to think about legacies differently by daring to be creative and innovative.Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review.Like this episode? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcasting app.Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional? Email your questions to IMPACTcoaches@IMPACTability.net<span...

In this episode of IMPACTability: A Nonprofit Leaders Podcast, host Josh Hirsch, MS interviews Abby Jarvis from Neon One about the latest recurring giving report. The report examines the growth and changes in recurring giving from 2018 to 2022, focusing on three revenue bands: small nonprofits (less than $1 million), mid-sized nonprofits ($1-5 million), and large nonprofits ($5 million or more). The study reveals interesting trends and patterns in donor behavior and provides insights for nonprofits to improve their recurring giving programs.TakeawaysRecurring giving has grown and changed over the past five years, with significant increases in donor engagement and philanthropic giving.Smaller nonprofits have shown tenacity in regaining revenue levels and donor engagement after a dip in 2019.Recurring donors give only 17% less than non-recurring donors, indicating that small nonprofits are doing a good job of inspiring their most committed supporters.Mid-sized nonprofits have the longest donor lifetimes, averaging over 10 years, suggesting they have effective strategies for building long-lasting relationships with their supporters.Large nonprofits have seen growth in revenue and donor numbers, but there is a need to focus on reconnecting with communities and diversifying donor bases.Nonprofits can start by enabling recurring donations and inviting donors to support them in this way. Experimentation and growth are encouraged.Tailoring suggested donation amounts based on donors' past support can have a significant impact on giving patterns.Now is the perfect time to start cultivating recurring donors, as the data shows that communities are ready to support nonprofits in this way.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Impactability and Guest Introduction01:29 Overview of the Recurring Giving Report04:26 Trends and Patterns in Small Nonprofits09:44 Building Long-Lasting Relationships: Mid-Sized Nonprofits20:55 Challenges and Opportunities for Large Nonprofits26:38 Getting Started with Recurring Giving28:30 The Power of Tailored Suggested Donation Amounts35:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGuest BioAbby Jarvis is a writer, marketer, and Head of Content at Neon One. She’s passionate about giving nonprofits the tools they need to connect with their supporters. Her 10 years in the nonprofit technology industry have been dedicated to understanding how and why donors support their favorite causes, studying donor trends and behavior, and sharing data-backed best practices nonprofits can use to build successful fundraising programs.Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review.Like this episode? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcasting app.Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional?<span style="color:...

In this episode of IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast, host Josh Hirsch, MS is joined by Julia Campbell to discuss the use of AI in nonprofit fundraising. They explore the benefits of using generative AI to create personalized donor journeys, analyze data for better fundraising strategies, and automate tasks to save time. They also discuss the ethical considerations of using AI, particularly in creating images and storytelling for sensitive topics. The conversation emphasizes the importance of having an AI usage policy and being transparent with donors. Overall, the episode highlights the potential of AI to enhance nonprofit fundraising and improve donor experiences.Takeaways Generative AI can be used to create personalized donor journeys, analyze data for better fundraising strategies, and automate tasks to save time.Ethical considerations should be taken into account when using AI, particularly in creating images and storytelling for sensitive topics.Having an AI usage policy and being transparent with donors is important to maintain trust and ensure ethical use of AI.AI has the potential to enhance nonprofit fundraising and improve donor experiences.Chapters00:33 Introducing Julia Campbell02:22 The Evolution of Digital Fundraising03:20 The Role of AI in Fundraising06:14 Ethics and AI in Nonprofit Fundraising08:36 Using AI to Improve Fundraising10:59 Analyzing Data for Better Fundraising Strategies14:24 Creating Personalized Donor Journeys18:53 Communicating with Different Stakeholders21:18 Ethical Considerations in AI for Nonprofits25:35 Transparency and Trust in AI Usage30:22 The Power and Potential of AI in Nonprofit Fundraising35:40 Closing Remarks and Contact InformationGuest BioRecently named one of the 25 most influential nonprofit thought leaders and one of the seven nonprofit thought leaders to follow on Twitter during the coronavirus crisis, Julia Campbell is on a mission to make the digital world a better place. After spending two years in Senegal, West Africa with the US Peace Corps, working with NGOs and local villages, she started her career in the nonprofit sector, in roles that include development, marketing, and program management. In her current role, through speaking and consulting, she guides organizations of all sizes on the best uses of social media and storytelling to build communities, showcase impact, and advance their causes. Julia wrote her book Storytelling in the Digital Age: A Guide for Nonprofits as a roadmap for social change agents who want to build movements using engaging digital storytelling techniques. Her second book, How to Build and Mobilize a Social Media Community for Your Nonprofit, was published this year. Julia launched Social Media for Social Good...

In this episode, host Josh Hirsch interviews Tara Tomcsik-Husak, President and CEO of the Troy Chamber of Commerce, about the importance of collaboration in the nonprofit sector. Tara emphasizes the need for nonprofits to minimize competition and work together to make a bigger impact. She shares examples of successful collaborations, such as partnering with local businesses and other nonprofits to drive their missions. Tara also discusses the importance of networking, asking for feedback, and being open-minded to learn from others. She encourages nonprofits to join chambers of commerce, attend conferences, and connect with other organizations to find collaborative opportunities.TakeawaysCollaboration in the nonprofit sector is about minimizing competition and working together to make a bigger impact.Nonprofits can partner with local businesses and other organizations to drive their missions and create a well-rounded approach.Networking and connecting with other organizations is essential for finding collaborative opportunities.Asking for feedback and being open-minded to learn from others can help nonprofits grow and improve.Joining chambers of commerce, attending conferences, and researching other organizations can lead to collaborative partnerships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability and Nonprofit Leaders podcast03:18 Tara's nonprofit journey and founding Feline Fund05:59 The importance of collaboration in the nonprofit sector09:18 Finding collaborative opportunities15:21 The benefits of being vulnerable and asking for help27:47 Wrap-up and final thoughtsGuest BioTara Tomcsik-Husak brings over 20 years of experience in non-profit management, the arts, and hospitality industries. She is enthusiastic and passionate about developing loyal community/ business relationships while making an impact.She currently serves over 700 businesses/nonprofit organizations in her role as President/ CEO of the Troy Chamber of Commerce, fostering relationships and connectivity for businesses to collaborate and grow. In this role, she is responsible for the Chamber’s business retention/expansion, infrastructure, workforce/education, health and safety, civic innovation, and collaboration with city and county governmental agencies and other economic development organizations. She also serves as chair of the Nonprofit Network where she hosts monthly educational forums and a nonprofit management conference for over 75 nonprofits.Her career started in hospitality, working in operations and sales in numerous hotel and restaurant chains. She transitioned into the nonprofit field starting in corporate development and grassroots fundraising for the American Heart Association for Washtenaw County and quickly progressed into serving as the Vice President of Mission Advancement, encompassing mission development and engagement across the Midwest.After working at the AHA, she served as the Executive Director of Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit, fulfilling the mission, to empower young people to maximize their potential through professional performing arts training and the creation of theatrical and musical art that engages, transforms and inspires. She served as the executive leader and manager for financial operations, administrative operations, fund development, grant writing/reporting, human resources, and marketing and communications. In addition, she served and represented the organization as the spokesperson, promoting the mission and its activities to the board of directors, foundations, corporations, volunteers, community partners, media, and donors.Her work as an actress and vocalist provided her with the ability to travel the world. Performing professionally in theatres and concert halls in the Netherlands, Switzerland, Greece,...

In this episode, David Targonski, a nonprofit development expert, shares his insights on the power of direct mail in fundraising. He emphasizes that direct mail is not dead and can still be an effective tool for nonprofits to raise funds. He discusses the advantages of direct mail over email, highlighting the tactile nature of mail and the higher likelihood of response. Dave also provides tips on how to make direct mail stand out, such as using different envelope sizes and colors. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling and personalization in direct mail campaigns. Additionally, he discusses the role of direct mail in identifying major gift prospects and the importance of stewardship in building donor relationships.TakeawaysDirect mail is still a powerful tool for fundraising and can be more effective than email in certain situations.Using different envelope sizes, colors, and personalization can make direct mail stand out and increase response rates.Storytelling and personalization are key components of successful direct mail campaigns.Direct mail can be used to identify major gift prospects and build donor relationships.Stewardship is crucial in maintaining and growing donor support.Chapters01:04 The power of direct mail in fundraising14:16 The role of storytelling in direct mail29:30 Using direct mail to identify major gift prospects35:19 Tips and techniques for making direct mail stand out39:36 The importance of stewardship in direct mail fundraisingGuest BioDavid Targonski, Director of Development at St. Michael the Archangel Parish and School, has worked in nonprofit development for more than 24 years serving in various roles and responsibilities from Annual Giving to Planned Giving to Direct marketing. He has raised more than $100 million in his career.Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review.Like this episode? Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcasting app.Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional? Email your questions to IMPACTcoaches@IMPACTability.net and listen to next episode to see if your question gets answered!

Summary Amy Brand, CEO of Philanthropy Tank, discusses the organization's mission to empower the next generation of leaders in the nonprofit sector. Philanthropy Tank works with high school students to develop and launch their own social impact programs. The students go through a rigorous application process and receive funding and mentorship to bring their ideas to life. The program focuses on teaching leadership skills, collaboration, and critical thinking. Philanthropy Tank has seen success with many of its programs becoming formal 501(c)(3) organizations. The organization is also expanding to new cities, with plans to launch in Chicago. Takeaways Philanthropy Tank empowers high school students to develop and launch their own social impact programs. The program focuses on teaching leadership skills, collaboration, and critical thinking. Many of the programs started through Philanthropy Tank have become formal 501(c)(3) organizations. The organization is expanding to new cities, with plans to launch in Chicago. Chapters  00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability and Philanthropy Tank 06:19 In Pursuit of Greatness: Guiding the Next Generation of Leaders 13:45 Empowering Change Makers: The Mission of Philanthropy Tank 26:42 Supporting the Leaders of Our Next Generation Guest Bio Amy Brand has over 25 years of nonprofit experience in the South Florida community.  She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her Masters in Nonprofit Management from Florida Atlantic University.  Amy’s first professional nonprofit position was as the Area Development Director of the Broward County American Cancer Society.  In 2001, she moved to Bethesda Hospital Foundation and worked with the organization for almost 13 years serving in various capacities including Special Events Director, Corporate Partners Director and Major Gifts Director. From there, Amy served as the Chief Development Officer for Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County where through strategic partnerships and donor relations, she increased revenue over 500%.  Amy now serves as the CEO of Philanthropy Tank, an organization dedicated to working with teens to develop student-driven, sustainable programs that create solutions and address issues facing their communities.  She oversees operations in Palm Beach County and Baltimore, as well as future expansion efforts.  Amy is the past president of the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation, past president of the Association for Women in Communications (AWC), Atlantic Florida Chapter serving Broward, Dade, and Palm Beach counties, as well as a past president of the Palm Beach County chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP.)  She is a graduate of Leadership Palm Beach County and a sustaining member of the Junior League of Boca Raton. She received her designation as a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) in September 2013 and was awarded Outstanding Fundraising Professional in 2020 by AFP Palm Beach County.  She currently serves as a co-chair of the Leadership Palm Beach County Grow program, a leadership program for high school juniors from area schools.