Эпизоды
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Hey there, friends! In today’s episode, we’re diving into some big shifts happening in the world of philanthropy and nonprofits—and why it’s more crucial than ever for us to evolve with the times.
We’re in a new era. From policy changes on platforms like Facebook that affect nonprofit fundraising to a noticeable decline in DEI and education funding, it’s clear that yesterday’s strategies won’t carry us forward. We’re seeing funding sources dry up, priorities shift, and high performers leave the sector. If we don’t adapt, we risk getting left behind. And I don’t want that for any of you or the causes you champion.
Key Points Covered:
- Changing Fundraising Landscape: Social media platforms and government funding policies are shifting. For example, Facebook is no longer supporting recurring gifts or covering fees, and many big-name philanthropies are cutting their education budgets. To survive and thrive, we need diversified revenue streams and strategies that don’t rely on a single source.
- Talent Crisis in Nonprofits: The nonprofit space is struggling to attract, retain, and train talent, especially in development roles. Too often, we see fundraising stars promoted into management roles without the skills or support to truly lead. We need to invest in developing our people and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.
- Leadership and Growth: Being a great manager isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about coaching and supporting your team’s growth. It’s time to shift from a mindset of doing it all ourselves to empowering others to lead and create change alongside us.
- Avoiding Burnout: We are stretched thin, often doing multiple roles. It’s not sustainable. We need to communicate our needs, advocate for better support, and focus on activities that drive meaningful progress. As leaders, we have to model a healthier, more sustainable approach to work.
I also talked about the importance of self-reflection, especially as nonprofit leaders. Every quarter, I take a step back to assess how I’m doing in all aspects of my life—from my relationships to my work to my personal growth. We need to prioritize not only the tasks but our well-being and long-term vision. This kind of introspection and planning is essential to keep our organizations strong and sustainable.
If we want to see change in our organizations, it starts with us. We need to embrace new ways of thinking, build new habits, and invest in ourselves as leaders. It’s about growing our skill sets, enhancing our capacity to lead, and creating a culture where our teams feel supported, empowered, and inspired. Together, we can grow our impact and make a difference, but it requires action, courage, and a commitment to growth. So, let’s continue to challenge ourselves and each other to be the best leaders we can be.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie...
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Welcome to another episode of Nonprofit CourageLab! Today, I'm sharing a sneak peek into a recent Pitch-A-thon where we dive into the art of nonprofit pitching – not in a Shark Tank kind of way, but more like engaging in a powerful and meaningful conversation. Together, we’ll explore strategies to connect authentically with donors, practice impactful pitches, and avoid common missteps. This episode is perfect if you’re looking to make a difference through your ask, not just for your organization but in a way that resonates deeply with donors.
In this episode, we work with Sheena, a nonprofit leader from "To Write Love on Her Arms," as she crafts a personalized pitch. She highlights the importance of youth mental health, shares their impact on high school students across the country, and tailors her message to resonate with the specific values and passions of her donor.
Key Takeaways:
- Building Relationships, Not Pitches: A pitch should feel like a natural extension of a relationship. We’re not here to talk "at" people but to create a back-and-forth that lets the donor feel heard, valued, and understood.
- Focus on the Donor, Not Just the Cause: Too often, pitches spotlight only the organization’s needs. Remember: the donor is a partner. Tailor your ask to what drives them and make it clear why they’re essential to the mission.
- Tell Stories, Don’t Share Stats: Highlight how your work impacts individuals. Personal stories can be more powerful than numbers alone. For example, share how an 11-year-old struggling with depression found hope and healing through your program.
- Practice Makes Perfect (and Shorter!): Awareness of time is key. Practice your pitch, time it, and refine it so it lands clearly within a 2-3 minute window. You'll surprise yourself by how much impact you can make in a short, well-crafted pitch.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Пропущенные эпизоды?
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Hey friend! Today’s episode is a little different. I’m coming to you unfiltered, and honestly, I'm fed up. In my work with nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and development directors across the country, I’m seeing some serious gaps that we need to address.
We’ve been talking a lot about mental health and wellness in the nonprofit sector, which is important—but what’s missing from the conversation is a real accountability check. We need to give ourselves grace, yes, but we also need discipline. Something has to change, and it starts with us getting real about what isn’t working.
In this episode, I dive deep into the challenges we’re all facing in the fundraising world. I see people in leadership roles with no real training or support, fundraising teams stretched too thin, and an overall lack of reflection on what’s actually working. The reality is, we’re repeating the same mistakes over and over again and expecting different results. That needs to stop.
I talk about:
- The alarming turnover in fundraising roles and why the average tenure is only 18 months.
- The rise of fractional fundraisers and why that’s a positive shift.
- Why so many people in leadership feel burnt out and stuck—and how to move past that.
- The importance of focusing on prospects who *actually* care, instead of wasting time chasing people who aren’t interested.
- The hard truth about accountability and why leaders need to step up and have direct, honest conversations.
This episode is all about getting real. It’s time to reflect, stop making excuses, and take control of what we can. If you're ready to be part of a revolution of courage and accountability in the nonprofit sector, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Grace vs. Discipline: We need to balance grace with discipline. Sometimes, we’re too lenient with ourselves, and it’s holding us back from progress.
- Stop Chasing Dead Ends: If a prospect isn’t interested after 18 months, let them go. Focus your energy on those who are engaged and willing to give.
- Leadership Accountability: Leaders need to have the courage to address the elephant in the room and hold people accountable, whether it’s your CEO, board members, or yourself.
- Reflect and Adjust: Are you taking time to reflect on what’s working? If you’re stuck in “go-go-go” mode, it’s time to pause and reassess your strategies.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I guide you through the essentials of major gift fundraising, focusing on strategic planning, effective donor engagement, and optimal time management.
I'm going to go over how to schedule and prioritize tasks, reach out to loyal donors, and request multi-year pledges and one-time gifts and the importance of aligning donation requests with your organization's strategic plan and the frequent solicitation of referrals.
Learn best practices for donor portfolio reviews, setting weekly goals, and utilizing various communication platforms. I'll show you how to proactively build relationships, leverage social media, and personally connect with potential donors. To enhance your fundraising impact, there is a big need for regular planning, clear donor criteria, and consistent tracking of progress.
Additionally, I provide tips on decluttering your calendar, balancing new donor acquisition with nurturing existing relationships, and embracing creativity in your fundraising efforts. Don't forget to check out my free donor scripts cheat sheet available on my website for further support.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I share a case study about helping a New York City-based animal welfare organization secure an unrestricted $6 million gift, which is twice their annual budget of $3 million.
The discussion covers mistakes to avoid, strategies to build trust and credibility with donors, and the importance of a strategic plan with a big vision for impact. Emphasizing the high capacity and trust with donors, I explore the significance of having direct conversations when asking for large donations, such as $6 million, and the power of a simple proposal.
With personal anecdotes, I stress that generosity is a gift to the giver and that building strong relationships is key to acquiring major funds for impactful projects. This session aims to inspire and provide practical insights for nonprofit stakeholders seeking to level up their fundraising efforts.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Update
01:04 Case Study: Securing a $6 Million Gift
02:23 Building Trust and Credibility with Donors
04:51 Strategic Planning for Big Gifts
09:52 Crafting a Simple and Effective Proposal
13:41 The Importance of Direct Asks
30:07 Mindset and Personal Development
37:22 Conclusion and Encouragement
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I dive into a frequently asked question: how to determine the right amount to ask a donor for? I break down my thought process and introduce my special Ask Amount ebook, which is available for free.
I explore three key factors: the organization, the donor, and you, the fundraiser. I dive into evaluating an organization's size, effectiveness, vision, and fundraising goals. For donors, factors include their identity, mission alignment, financial capacity, and inclination to give.
Lastly, I discuss the role of the fundraiser, emphasizing the importance of courage and technical skills. I also include tips on engaging with donors and making successful asks. If you leave a five-star Apple Podcast review and send me a screenshot on LinkedIn, I'll share my ebook with you. Thank you for listening and continue to raise millions for impactful work.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I discuss how to determine if Courage Lab, my six-week group coaching accelerator, is the right fit for you. Courage Lab is designed for nonprofit professionals, such as executive and development directors, who are looking to raise unrestricted revenue from individual major gifts of $10k or more.
I provide an overview of what the program entails, including live training, recorded modules with six months of access, and personalized feedback. Additionally, I share success stories from past participants to illustrate the potential impact of the program. If you are ready to take action, prioritize major gifts fundraising, and grow bolder in your approach, visit julieordonez.com/couragelab to learn more and sign up.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, we explore eight crucial habits to help you raise $1 million from September through December. These habits will position you to achieve your year-end fundraising goals. Additionally, consider joining my training on August 27th and 28th to map out your major gift strategy for the rest of the year.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode of the Nonprofit Courage Lab Podcast, host Julie Ordonez shares her insights on how to raise millions sustainably without burning out. Julie emphasizes the importance of simplifying efforts, treating donors as business partners, and negotiating to avoid unnecessary workload.
She highlights common mistakes in the sector, such as asking for too little and overcomplicating messaging. Julie provides actionable strategies to build trust, credibility, and stronger relationships with donors, while encouraging nonprofit leaders to step up and communicate their needs clearly. She also introduces her coaching programs designed to help nonprofits achieve their fundraising goals more efficiently.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I walk through a case study of how I helped a gun violence prevention client elevate their Major Gifts program from good to great in just six months. We delve into the strategies and coaching techniques used to instill confidence, promote boldness in fundraising, and leverage team strengths to achieve significant results, including securing six and seven-figure gifts.
Join me as I share insights from personalized coaching sessions, a strengths-focused team retreat, and practical steps to optimize donor engagement and departmental processes. If you're looking to elevate your fundraising game, this episode is a must-listen.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I share a comprehensive strategy for the Boys and Girls Club of Bend, Oregon, to raise $2 million in unrestricted funds from individuals within six months. This deep dive covers analyzing their annual report, website, 990 on GuideStar, and existing fundraising efforts.
Key suggestions include auditing their messaging, effectively communicating their impact, leveraging compelling data points, optimizing events, and focusing on major gifts. I also discuss building custom donor strategies, creating big visions for future growth, and working smarter to minimize effort and maximize fundraising results.
This episode provides practical advice that can be implemented to significantly enhance their fundraising success.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, we address a common fundraising issue raised by listener Ben: being too conservative in ask amounts. Many nonprofits fail to raise the desired funds because they don't ask for enough, often due to fears of offending donors.
It's important to observe your own thinking, understanding donor intentions, and being bold in asks. Having a strong conviction in an organization's mission and how it ties into successful fundraising is essential to being more bold in your asks.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Welcome back to another episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab. In this episode I talk about becoming a leader that raises 7 figure gifts. I am going to walk you through what I've seen that it takes and what I have seen with my clients who actually become those leaders.
Leadership encompasses mindset, character, and team management. Technical skills cover donor communication, negotiation, and understanding wealth. The strategy involves creating and implementing high-return plans. The episode stresses the importance of personal transformation, continuous learning, and leveraging the right resources to achieve extraordinary fundraising results.
I hope this episode inspires you to become that leader.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode I am answering questions for my LinkedIn. We cover topics such as building relationships, how to ask for more money, how to get meetings, and more.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this podcast episode, I walk you through The Courage Lab Method for helping you raise $1-3M in 6 months.
The method revolves around three key pillars: leadership, technical skills, and strategy. And its also important to develop the right mindset, character, and courage in leadership. You'll also learn about how imortantant it is to master negotiation skills and understanding the wealth dynamics in order to understand how to help donors identify where they have opportunities to be able to give even more.
We talk about identifying and focusing high ROI opportunities, whether it's optimizing donor communications or leveraging personal networks. By prioritizing current donors and fostering genuine connections, organizations can raise unrestricted revenue for their missions more efficiently.
To learn more about this approach and how it can benefit your organization, you can apply to work with me via her website www.julieordonez/millions
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey there, welcome back to Nonprofit Courage Lab! It's Julie, and today I'm thrilled to dive into a topic that's crucial for every fundraiser: how to score more major donor meetings. We're going to get super practical here, talking about what might be holding you back and what you can actually do to land those meetings.
So, let's address a couple of common reasons why you might not be getting as many meetings as you'd like with potential major donors. First off, are you actually asking for them? It sounds simple, but sometimes we forget to prioritize reaching out and making those requests.
If that rings a bell, let's take a look at where your time is going. Check out your calendar, your recent emails—see what's eating up your schedule. Remember, building relationships one-on-one is key for donor retention. Neglecting your current donors can lead to a leaky bucket situation, and we definitely want to avoid that!
Now, when it comes to asking for meetings, are you doing it effectively? Maybe your approach needs a little tweak. Let's carve out some dedicated time in your schedule for reaching out, and then let's work on improving the quality of your outreach.
Start by setting a goal for how many meetings you want to ask for each week. If you're not asking for any right now, let's start small and work our way up. And remember, timing is everything. Try asking for meetings first thing in the morning when you're fresh and focused.
But what if you're already asking for meetings and not getting the responses you hoped for? It might be time to optimize your approach. One common issue is that donors aren't clear on why you want to meet with them. So, let's get straight to the point in your outreach.
Personalize your emails, drop in their first name, and skip the generic pleasantries. Show them that you've done your homework and that you genuinely value their time and support. Make it crystal clear why you want to meet and how much time you're asking for.
And don't forget to inject some personality into your outreach! Think about how you can make your emails more engaging and authentic. Share something about yourself or your interests—it's all about building a genuine connection.
Now, when it comes to follow-ups, consistency is key. Keep following up at regular intervals, but make sure your follow-ups are just as thoughtful as your initial outreach.
Remember, fundraising is all about building relationships and making meaningful connections. So, approach each outreach with intention and creativity, and you'll be well on your way to scoring more major donor meetings. Happy fundraising, my friend!
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode we're diving in to what it takes to become a top-notch fundraiser and how it can transform your results.
First off, being a badass fundraiser isn't just about having a cool title – it's about getting the job done. So, what sets badass fundraisers apart? It starts with their attitude. Despite the pressure and stress that often come with fundraising, they remain cool under pressure and tap into their creativity, even when the clock is ticking.
Take, for example, the approach to engaging board members. Instead of simply asking for more major donors, a badass executive director focuses on connecting with individuals who are genuinely aligned with the organization's mission and values.
But badass fundraising isn't just about asking for money – it's about building genuine relationships. Rather than viewing donors as ATMs, badass fundraisers see them as potential teammates, each with a unique role to play in advancing the mission.
Negotiation is another key skill in the badass fundraiser's toolkit. They're not afraid to ask tough questions or push back when faced with a "no." By engaging in honest dialogue, they build trust and credibility with donors, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes.
And when it comes to communication, badass fundraisers know how to craft a compelling message that resonates with donors. They do their research, think strategically, and articulate the impact of their work in a way that inspires action.
But perhaps what truly sets badass fundraisers apart is their creativity and resilience. Whether it's sending a handwritten note adorned with cat stamps or owning up to mistakes and learning from them, they're always finding new ways to connect and persevere, even in the face of rejection.
So, if you're ready to take your fundraising game to the next level, channel your inner badass and remember – success lies in the journey, not just the destination.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hello, courageous leaders! In this episode, we dove deep into the concept that "You Are Your Results." We explored the idea that our actions, or lack thereof, directly reflect the outcomes we achieve in our fundraising efforts.
Many of you are leading incredible organizations and have the potential to make significant impacts. However, there's often a disconnect between what we say we want and the actions we take. If your goal is to grow and scale your impact, your calendar should reflect the necessary steps to achieve that growth. But for many, there's a mismatch between aspirations and actions.
We discussed the importance of asking for unrestricted revenue and major gifts. If you're not seeing the results you want, it's time to ask yourself when you last requested the funds you truly need. It's not enough to hope for million-dollar donations; you must actively seek them out and ask for them.
I challenge you to consider whether you've genuinely tried everything to raise the funds your organization needs. Have you reached out to that one donor who could make a transformative contribution? Have you been honest with your donors about the full extent of your financial needs?
This episode was a call to action. It's time to align your talk with your walk, to take bold steps, and to embrace the discomfort that comes with asking for more. You have the power to change your results by changing your actions. It's about integrity, courage, and the willingness to be vulnerable.
Next time, we'll discuss what it means to become a badass fundraiser. Until then, remember that changing the world starts with changing ourselves. Visit nonprofitcouragelab.com for more resources, and if this episode inspired you, please leave a review. Keep striving for greatness, and let your actions reflect your ambitions.
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In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, I had the pleasure of speaking with the exceptional Lindsay Fuller, the Executive Director of The Teaching Well. Lindsay's dedication and innovative approach to leadership in the nonprofit sector, particularly in education, is nothing short of remarkable.
Lindsay and her team at The Teaching Well are on a bold mission to address educator attrition by creating supportive environments where teachers can thrive. Their work is not only about retaining educators but also reimagining the field to inspire future generations to pursue teaching as a profession.
During our conversation, Lindsay shared the transformative journey of partnering with me to develop a custom fundraising strategy. We discussed the importance of having a clear vision, measurable goals, and the courage to ask for major gifts. Lindsay's organization stands out for its commitment to tracking effectiveness and making values-based decisions, which has led to significant fundraising success.
We also touched on the critical role of mindset shifts, strategic planning, and the use of communication tools like LinkedIn to engage potential funders. Lindsay's story is a testament to the power of investing in development and the impact it can have on an organization's financial stability and ability to serve its community.
I am incredibly proud to support leaders like Lindsay and organizations like The Teaching Well. Their success in building a strong reserve, even through challenging times like the global pandemic, is a shining example for others in the nonprofit world.
For those considering working with me, Lindsay's experience highlights the value of investing in your organization's future and the transformative results that can be achieved with the right strategy and support.
Thank you for tuning in to Nonprofit Courage Lab. Remember, change starts with the courage to ask for more. Visit nonprofitcouragelab.com to connect and learn more about how you can raise major gifts for your cause. If this episode has encouraged you, please rate and review the podcast. Together, we can make a difference—one major gift at a time.
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In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, I, Julie Ordonez, had the pleasure of speaking with Will Zweigert, the CEO of Flatbush Cats in Brooklyn. Will shared his transformative journey from the corporate world to the nonprofit sector, and how his passion for animal welfare led him to establish Flatbush Cats, an organization dedicated to solving the issue of overcrowded animal shelters.
Will's story is a testament to the power of personal transformation and the courage to ask for more. He discussed the challenges and successes of their recent capital campaign, which raised over $3 million to open their first spay, neuter, and veterinary clinic. This achievement was made possible through intense fundraising and development work, and Will is eager to share the lessons learned with other organizations.
During our conversation, we delved into the importance of building relationships with donors and the strategic decision-making that goes into fundraising. Will highlighted the value of stewardship and the joy of thanking and reporting back to supporters. He also emphasized the need to have direct conversations about financial needs, which can lead to more significant gifts and a deeper understanding of donors' passions.
Will's experience with the Courage Lab, my six-week major gifts training program, has been transformative. He learned to stop censoring himself and to ask for what his organization truly needs. This shift in mindset has already led to substantial fundraising wins, including a gift that was quadruple the amount he initially considered asking for.
I'm thrilled to see the impact that Courage Lab has had on Will and Flatbush Cats. If you're struggling with asking for major gifts or finding yourself avoiding the work, Courage Lab is designed to give you the strategy, training, and courage you need. For more information, visit JulieOrdonez.com and click on Courage Lab.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab. If you've been encouraged, please rate and review the podcast, and remember, no one has changed the world without first changing themselves.
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