The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailEnjoy this engaging conversation Margie Worrell, Curriculum Manager at Bloomerang.com, as she shares the latest 2024 insights about automation and its role in enhancing nonprofit productivity. Margie begins with the notion that automation is not exclusive to mid to large-sized organizations and productivity tools can benefit nonprofits of all sizes. Margie notes, "This is something everyone needs. Basically, if you still have work to do at the end of the day, it's for you." She highlights the diverse forms of automation, from leveraging volunteers and interns to using cost-effective technologies. Margie shares an example from her experience where interns and retirees were employed to perform tasks, demonstrating that automation doesn't always involve advanced technology. The conversation dives into the cost and time investment required for effective automation. Margie urges organizations to consider both the financial cost and the time spent in learning and implementing automation tools. The co-hosts and Margie discussed specific automation features within Bloomerang platform, such as automated reports and task tracking, which help nonprofits streamline their operations and reduce manual effort. Throughout the discussion, Margie reiterates the significance of finding the right CRM system that aligns with an organization's automation needs, advising NPO’s to evaluate CRM options based on their automation capabilities and integration possibilities. Margie concludes by defining success in automation as a reduction in the time spent in the database while still gaining substantial value from it, stressing the importance of automation tools freeing up staff to focus on mission-critical work and encouraging nonprofits to seek ongoing education and peer support. Watch on  video: https://bit.ly/3NUGDHhFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailDaniel Grunstein, the CEO at Crowded, a platform that specializes in helping nonprofits manage their finances and simplify complex financial processes for volunteers and small NPO’s, joins the cohosts to discuss the use of digital payment systems, particularly focusing on Venmo, within the nonprofit sector. The conversation digs deep into the challenges and risks associated with using Venmo for nonprofit activities. Daniel emphasizes that while Venmo is designed for casual peer-to-peer payments, it is increasingly being used by nonprofits, which can lead to compliance issues, operational headaches, and donor data tracking challenges. Daniel offers "Nonprofit treasuries have to deal with a wide array of financial processes for what is typically a volunteer position. They often spend money on administration and consulting, which could be streamlined into a user-friendly digital experience to benefit grassroots nonprofits." One significant risk discussed is the lack of integration and centralization of donor data, making it difficult for nonprofits to maintain compliance and track donations effectively. Daniel suggests that smaller nonprofits should consider end-to-end solutions like Crowded to streamline their financial operations. The lively chat also touches on how younger demographics are more inclined to use Venmo for fundraising efforts and that it's prevalent in ad hoc fundraising environments such as bake sales or raffle sales. Watch and learn the importance of proper financial management tools for nonprofits, especially as they navigate the complexities of digital payment systems like Venmo, and the need to centralize and track donor data for compliance and efficiency. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3RWyzqOFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan Mail A revealing and fun discussion on the value and process of media sponsorships for your nonprofit. Julia Patrick, the CEO of the American Nonprofit Academy, takes us through the intricacies of what media sponsors truly desire and the potential they hold for nonprofits. "Connectivity is key," Julia begins, as she elaborates on the importance of connecting with media outlets, those gateways to vast audiences. Whether it's through TV, radio, digital media, or even sports franchises like the NBA or MLB, these media titans wield the power to connect you with their audience like never before. Julia's recounts a hilarious incident involving her own daughter being approached by an event chair to be their media partner – an unforgettable tale of mishaps in the world of media partnerships! Host Jarrett Ransom shares in expressing how media partnerships could be a game-changer for nonprofits, focusing questions on when is the best time to approach a media partners. The conversation shifts to data, and Julia shares how nonprofits need to paint a clear picture of their donor base, showcasing their interests, demographics, and economic impact. Media partners want this valuable data to ensure a perfect alignment of values and mission. But the curveball of the day comes when Jarrett asks about social media influencers. Julia's response is a cautious one – pointing out the flaws that may be hiding from the opportunity. . . . . . it might not be the right fit. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3RPUTCpFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailIn this interview with Muhi Khwaja, co-founder and Chief Development Officer of the American Muslim Community Foundation (AMCF), he discusses the foundation's unique approach to faith-based philanthropy, shedding light on their mission to provide an inclusive and accessible platform for philanthropy within the American Muslim community. The conversation highlights AMCF's journey and its role in providing a platform for Muslims to engage in philanthropic activities. Muhi shares the origin of AMCF, tracing it back to his experience working in philanthropy and development, where he was inspired to create a community foundation for the American Muslim community. He mentions his previous roles and the diverse network he built within the Muslim community, which eventually led to the establishment of AMCF. One key aspect of the discussion is the concept of donor-advised funds (DAFs). Muhi explains that AMCF allows individuals to start DAFs with a minimum recommended amount of $2,500, making philanthropy accessible to a broader audience. He emphasizes the flexibility and tax benefits associated with DAFs, making them a popular choice for charitable giving. The interview digs into the demographics of AMCF's donors, revealing a median age of around 52-55, and Muhi addresses the diversity within the American Muslim community and how AMCF aims to represent and support this diverse population. The conversation touches on the importance of planned giving and estate planning within the Muslim community, as well as AMCF's role in facilitating these discussions. Muhi mentions collaborative funds and giving circles as part of AMCF's proactive approach in responding to various causes, such as disaster relief and advocacy efforts. The cohosts and Muhi take a minute to mention the success of their recent 2023 Muslim Philanthropy Awards, which celebrated outstanding contributions to philanthropy within the community. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3Sbiu1ZFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailShow host Julia Patrick discusses recent NPO questions with Tony Beall, the Senior Director for the Center of Development and Advancement at National University. The discussion revolves around key topics related to nonprofit management and leadership, emphasizing the importance of creativity, collaboration, and empathy in nonprofit leadership. The questions addressed on this fun fast paced episode include: The practice of starting staff meetings with a "mission moment." Julia and Tony both agree on the importance of these moments, as they serve to center and refocus the team on their organization's mission. However, finding efficient ways to incorporate mission moments can be challenging. Tony suggests creative alternatives, such as regional mission moments or using digital platforms like Slido to capture the essence of mission moments and highlight them during all-hands meetings. A professional who is considering serving on the board of another nonprofit organization that works in a similar field. The concern is whether this would be a conflict of interest. Tony emphasizes the value of collaboration and suggests exploring ways for the two organizations to work together rather than viewing it as a conflict of interest. Joint projects, tours, and sharing knowledge can foster cooperation and mutual benefit. The issue of an elderly board member who is struggling with digital tools and technology. The dilemma is whether to ask the board member to step down and find a more tech-savvy replacement. Tony stresses the importance of inclusion and diversity within the board and advises against removing board members solely based on their digital comfort zone. He suggests providing support and education to help the board member adapt to technology, recognizing that digital literacy can be improved. A CEO who has not received a job review for three years. The CEO is concerned about the board chair's reluctance to conduct the review. Tony emphasizes that the responsibility for conducting a CEO performance review falls on the entire board, not just the chair. He recommends using a self-assessment process as a proactive approach to initiate conversation about performance and provide the CEO with an opportunity to reflect on their role. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3RMhBLUFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailThis new 2024 interview highlights the growing awareness of mental wellness issues in the nonprofit sector and the need for proactive self-care and community support to sustain the vital work carried out by nonprofit professionals. Host Julia Patrick discusses the importance of mental wellness for individuals serving in nonprofit organizations with featured guest Jarrett Ransom, CEO of The Rayvan Group as she offers insights and practical suggestions for a roadmap for individuals seeking a healthier work-life blend in the nonprofit world. Jarrett begins with the significance of strategic self-care practices, comparing it to the oxygen mask principle on an airplane – you must take care of yourself before helping others. She uses the analogy of a marathon, where occasionally slowing down is necessary to maintain a sustainable pace. Together, they discuss the trend of loneliness in today's distributed workforce and the need for intimate communities. Julia and Jarrett also explore the concept of retreat and reflection. Jarrett advises weaving self-care practices into everyday life and the conversation touches on coaching circles for growth, emphasizing the value of building communities where individuals can support, challenge, and nurture each other. They both stress the importance of these circles as a way to combat loneliness and promote mental wellness. Watch on video:  https://bit.ly/47ssWX4Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailIn this Master Class discussion about leadership networking at nonprofits, Julia Patrick, the CEO of the American Nonprofit Academy, emphasizes the importance of connecting with leadership, encouraging nonprofits to look beyond their own organizations and collaborate with a broader network of leaders to maximize their impact and influence in their communities. By sharing stories, building connections, and fostering a sense of community support, nonprofits can achieve greater success in their missions. The conversation starts with the realization that many nonprofit leaders don't know each other well enough, despite being part of the same community. Even though leaders are often well-known in the public eye, there are significant gaps in their knowledge about each other's organizations and activities. The discussion emphasizes the need for nonprofit leaders to actively connect and share their stories with one another, especially in a post-pandemic world where in-person networking opportunities have diminished. They discuss the significance of creating a leadership list that includes a wide range of leaders, including those from different sectors like education, faith, government, media, and boards of directors. The purpose of this list is to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and identify opportunities for joint ventures, partnerships, or support. Julia recommends using a basic spreadsheet to manage the leadership list, including names, affiliations, and email addresses. The communication should be concise, focusing on impact and achievements rather than solely on fundraising. Calls to action, such as inviting leaders for tours or roundtable discussions, can help strengthen connections. The conversation also highlights the importance of reaching out to faith leaders and those in the education sector, including school leaders and university presidents, as they play crucial roles in shaping the community's future. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/4aKiU6IFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailIngrid Kirst, the CEO of Ingrid Kirst Consulting, brings a refreshing perspective on understanding change at nonprofit organizations. She highlights the importance of differentiating between change and transition, using the Bridges model developed by William Bridges. Ingrid begins with the point that change represents external events, such as leadership changes or relocations, while transition involves the internal process of how individuals perceive and adapt to those changes. "Just because something changed doesn't mean we were ready for it mentally." This quote encapsulates the central theme, highlighting the significance of managing the emotional and mental aspects of transitions within nonprofit organizations. Ingrid elaborates on the three stages of the Bridges model: Endings: Organizations need to acknowledge what is ending and give everyone the opportunity to process their feelings and concerns about the change. Neutral Zone: This is the in-between phase where individuals begin to adapt to the new reality. It's a time for creativity, brainstorming, and preparing for the new beginnings. New Beginnings: The final stage involves embracing the change, setting new goals, and involving everyone in shaping the future of the organization. The fast-paced discussion covers the importance of effective communication throughout the change process, with Ingrid highlighting the need for consistency in conveying information. She stresses how over-communication can be beneficial, ensuring that staff and NPO stakeholders are well-informed about the ongoing changes and the organization's plans. As the interview concludes, Ingrid makes a prediction for the nonprofit sector, stating that more organizations are becoming open to discussing and preparing for change and transition. She emphasizes that proactive planning and communication can ultimately lead to more resilient and stable nonprofit organizations. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3tFgSE5Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailNonprofit Show host Jarrett Ransom is joined by Jack Alotto, a CFRE from Fundraising Academy at National University, as they address questions and offer advice to nonprofit professionals. They dive right into answering questions from nonprofit professionals: Raul from Houston seeks advice on whether to bring a board member or a staff person to a presentation to a funder. Jack advises choosing someone based on their connection and relationship-building potential with the prospective donor. He also emphasizes the importance of safety when meeting donors in remote locations. Shelby from Oklahoma inquires about the idea of touring other nonprofit organizations post-COVID to learn from them and build relationships. Jack and Jarrett both express their support for the idea, highlighting the benefits of collaboration and sharing best practices within the nonprofit sector. Nyla from Detroit wants to know if having joint board meetings with another nonprofit from the same sector is a good idea and how to go about it. Jack mentions the benefits of learning from each other and collaborating but also warns about potential downsides. They stress the importance of defining the purpose and goals of such meetings. An anonymous question from Des Moines addresses a staff member's concern about the mental health of a fellow employee. Jack recommends immediate action, including reaching out to local mental health resources and crisis intervention lines. He also advocates for changing the language surrounding mental health to reduce stigma. Throughout the conversation, Jack and Jarrett emphasize the importance of empathy, collaboration, and caring for the well-being of nonprofit staff and volunteers. They encourage nonprofit organizations to prioritize mental health support and create a culture of understanding and compassion. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3H3HUrXFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Send us Fan MailIn this fun episode about trends in charity auctions, Bobby D. Ehlert, a benefit auctioneer specialist at CallToAuction.com, chats about the latest trends in nonprofit auctions, emphasizing the importance of benefit auctioneers in creating successful fundraising events. He describes the three types of auctioneers: free auctioneers, commercial auctioneers, and benefit auctioneers, elaborating on the significance of benefit auctioneers in nonprofit events, as they understand the unique dynamics of fundraising events and focus on creating memorable experiences for donors. You’ll appreciate his important point more fully, regarding the difference between commercial auctioneers and fundraising auctioneers . . . . . . . "Fundraising auctioneers understand the process of a fundraising event. They're not just up there to talk fast. They're there to help cultivate and identify those relationships with the donors." He highlights the shift towards more highly produced events that focus on storytelling and creating impactful experiences for donors. Bobby D. also shares insights into the changing donor landscape, the popularity of unique experiences as auction items, and the growing trend of paddle raise-only events. Join us in this informative discussion as we explore the evolving world of charity auctions and fundraising events. Watch on video: https://bit.ly/3GXixb8Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show