Visionary Voices

Is Your Nonprofit Serious About Making Change? Consider Having Fun!

Julie Chapman December 4, 2024 6 Comments

Tired of guilt-driven appeals and overwhelming stats in nonprofit campaigns? It’s time to shake things up with a dose of fun! Discover how “FunActivism” is revolutionizing nonprofit marketing by turning enjoyment and community into powerful tools for change. From zombie-themed disaster prep to playful dog walks for sustainability, learn how creative, lighthearted approaches can inspire action, attract new supporters, and energize your mission. Ready to make a serious impact while having fun? Let’s get started!

Tree split in half right side with leaves looking forward to future.

Why Nonprofits Must Think and Act Like Businesses

Joe Garecht December 3, 2024 No Comments

Since the beginning of time, we’ve been wired to avoid risks because that’s how we survive. But while this instinct may protect us from danger, it also holds us back. Success requires bold, unconventional actions that often draw criticism. Businesses understand this well, but nonprofits often struggle to embrace it.

Image of calendar with December 31 emphasized with a drop pin

How to Maximize Your Year-End Giving Campaign: 7 Fundraising Tips

Amy Mauser December 2, 2024 No Comments

Whether you’re preparing year-end appeals, planning outreach to major donors, or focusing on planned giving opportunities, a thoughtful approach can make all the difference for your nonprofit. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath and grab a list—or make one! Because the key to a successful year-end campaign is as much about preparation as it is about execution.

The Telling and Troubling Way We Continue to Teach Fundraising

James Langley December 2, 2024 2 Comments

Note how often the tone of instructive materials treats fundraising as something we do to prospective givers, not what we do with potential partners.

Humanity’s First Viral Hit: Cave Men Were Telling Stories Before We Were

Amida Gallagher November 30, 2024 No Comments

Stories are humanity’s secret superpower—they connect us, move us, and even make us cry over a stranger’s triumph or a puppy’s soulful eyes. They simplify life’s chaos, turning cold, hard facts into warm, relatable moments that stick with us. Great stories aren’t just told—they’re felt. In marketing, they sell transformations, and in philanthropy they tug heartstrings. The key? Simple, real, meaningful, even with a sprinkle of humor—who doesn’t love a hero who trips over their cape? The best stories don’t just inform; they inspire, leaving your audience ready to act… and maybe even laugh through their tears.

Talk Less, Raise More

Kevin L. Brown November 29, 2024 No Comments

Asking for a contribution makes most people nervous, which causes rambling,” says Lori L. Jacobwith of Ignited Fundraising. “And together, we have the perfect storm to make the most common fundraising mistake: talking too much.”

Hard Lessons Learned …

Eddie Thompson November 21, 2024 No Comments

Luckily, the most important lessons I’ve learned in my 40+ years of fundraising and charitable estate planning came near the beginning. Many of those experiences were painful, and it’s still somewhat embarrassing to shine a spotlight on my greatest mistakes. Nonetheless, things I learned from my stumblings have become essential elements of my fundraising career. Here are my top ten greatest mistakes (so far).

Image of wooden stix individuals receiving subsidy

Tax Benefits and Public Subsidies:

Viken Mikaelian November 21, 2024 No Comments

When you think about donating to charity, what comes to mind? Most of us picture generosity and kindness—people stepping up to make the world a better place. But behind every gift lies a complex system of tax benefits, sparking plenty of debates. And some are ugly.

Pen and ink illustration of the White House

Philanthropy Under Trump: What To Expect

Amida Gallagher November 19, 2024 1 Comment

Predicting the future of philanthropy is a tricky business—and even more so when it comes to political shifts. Under the new Trump administration, the direction of philanthropy could change, although I do not think it will drastically. We can only take some guesses based on historical data and recent events.