Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of Quam Taylor, discusses the nuances and challenges of nonprofit board "Give or Get" policies. Sherry challenges the common practice of requiring board members to either donate a set amount or "get" equivalent donations from their networks, arguing that this approach can hinder true relational fundraising and overall organizational growth. She begins with, “If my board member is going to give an hour or two outside of that monthly meeting, I actually want it to be things that are building that network and the relationship with people who have the ability to be a mid or major level donor.”

Show Host Julia Patrick and Sherry look deep into the unintended consequences of the give/get policy, like perpetuating a transactional mindset rather than fostering deep connections. Sherry explains, “We want every donor giving their best gift… that goes for board members too.” By creating policies that make it easier for board members to give their "best gift," boards can drive sustainable funding, while making board service more inclusive and meaningful. This lively and sometimes funny conversation emphasizes rethinking board contributions, embracing relational fundraising, and even "offering scholarship" seats to diversify and cultivate future leaders. Julia offers up, “This is a super cool way to get that next-gen leadership coming in.”

Key takeaways you’ll find:

1. Fundraising should prioritize relationships, not transactions.

2. Rethink "give/get" requirements to encourage board diversity.

3. Empower board members with relational, impactful ways to contribute.

Hashtags: #NonprofitLeadership #BoardDevelopment #FundraisingTransformation

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Our national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!
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The innovative Social Sector Hero Award celebrates organizations that are making measurable improvements in their communities through impact-driven initiatives. The Social Sector Hero Award offers over $20,000 in prizes to organizations that embody eight principles. Adam Luecking, CEO of ClearImpact.com, who has dedicated 18 years to supporting public sector and philanthropic organizations, shares details about the award and provides insights on the importance of measurement in driving meaningful change. "At the end of the day, we need to help people bring precision to their passion," he says, promoting the need for data-driven accountability in nonprofit work. Nominees don’t have to be clients of Clear Impact—they just need to demonstrate a commitment to improving lives. “We want to build champions who can articulate these concepts to others in their organization,” Adam says--highlighting the award's mission to foster leadership and measurable growth within the sector. Learn more about applying for the award at SocialSectorHero.com

Host Julia Patrick asks Adam to share how Clear Impact is revolutionizing the way organizations measure success. Through their work, Clear Impact supports nonprofits by offering practical tools like the Scorecard—a free tool that lets organizations track their progress in real time. This tool helps nonprofits align their efforts with measurable outcomes, ensuring that every step taken is purposeful and impactful. Adam comments, “The only way to bring precision to your passion is through measurement.”

Adam’s emphasis on marrying narrative with data is transformative for the sector, blending the emotional appeal of storytelling with the power of transparent, measurable results. “Transparency creates trust,” Adam goes on to explain as he advocates for nonprofits to openly share performance reports to gain trust from funders and community members alike.

#SocialSectorHero #ImpactMeasurement #Nonprofitawards

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In today's fast-paced nonprofit world, building and maintaining high-performance teams is crucial for success. James Misner, founder of the Kipos Group, shares powerful insights into what it takes to cultivate and sustain winning teams. As the nonprofit sector faces immense challenges, the importance of clarity, community, and consistency within teams is more evident than ever.

James begins with the idea that leadership is about more than just meeting financial goals—it’s about creating conditions where people thrive. He reminds us, "Teamwork is so rare and powerful, it provides the ultimate competitive advantage." This speaks to the fact that nonprofits, often facing resource limitations, can still succeed when their teams are united and driven by a shared purpose and mission.

A big takeaway from this engaging conversation is the necessity of clarity. James emphasizes that without a clearly defined goal, a team cannot operate effectively: “How can they be high-performing if everyone is running in different directions?” This clarity allows teams to align and consistently achieve outstanding results, turning abstract goals into tangible outcomes.

Building a strong sense of community is equally important. Nonprofits thrive when individuals feel supported and valued, and as James says, "High-performance teams are ones that learn, and learning often comes through mistakes." Leaders must foster an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, not failure.

Finally, James touches on the significance of consistency in leadership. Whether celebrating wins or addressing challenges, maintaining consistent processes builds trust and strengthens team dynamics. Leaders who prioritize their team's well-being will see long-term success, as they nurture an environment where staff feels both challenged and supported.

In a sector that often requires immense emotional and mental commitment, you'll find it refreshing to hear James speak about "fun leadership"—a concept that involves creating a joyful and productive environment, even in the face of adversity.

#NonprofitLeadership #TeamBuildingSuccess #HighPerformanceTeams

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We explore the transformative power of adoption with Rita L. Soronen, President and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Rita shares insights into how foster care adoption can change the lives of children who are seeking permanence and stability. As we celebrate National Adoption Month, we are reminded of the critical need to support vulnerable children. Dave Thomas, founder of Wendy’s, understood this deeply from his own life experiences, and in 1992 he created the foundation to advocate for children in foster care. As Rita explains, "These children are not someone else's responsibility. They are our responsibility."

Rita emphasizes the Foundation’s mission to increase adoptions and the ongoing commitment to expanding efforts, not just in the U.S. and Canada, but potentially in Mexico. The Foundation’s partnership with the Wendy’s Company and its many programs, like National Adoption Day, highlights the importance of celebrating and uplifting the stories of families formed through adoption. "We’re not just raising awareness," Rita says, "We are walking families through each step of the adoption process." This message serves as a powerful call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations to step forward and support children in need of a forever family.

#NationalAdoptionMonth #FosterCareAdoption #AdoptionAwareness

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Exploring the nuances of what it takes to succeed as a nonprofit fundraiser, especially in an evolving sector that is increasingly professionalized. In this Fundraisers Friday episode, Julia Patrick and Tony Beall chat about the rewarding yet challenging world of professional fundraising. Julia sets the beginning tone with a meaningful reminder in light of today’s tumultuous times. . . . “We’re going to need professional fundraisers now more than ever.”

Tony shares that nonprofit work wasn’t always viewed as a career path; rather, “a lot of us just kind of stumbled into this work.” Now, nonprofit professionals can earn a solid wage and receive specialized education. Both hosts emphasize the importance of core competencies—like ethical integrity, relationship building, and data analysis—to excel in this field. Tony comments, “To be a successful fundraiser, you have to have a high level of integrity and just, you know, ethics beyond question.”

A key part of their conversation is the value of persistence in a role known for its high turnover. Julia points out that many fundraisers only stay in one job for an average of 18-19 months, yet Tony reassures aspiring fundraisers with a can-do spirit, saying, “I believe all things are possible when we communicate in a way that ensures all things are possible.”

These two don’t just provide advice; it’s a call to action for fundraisers to be adaptable, passionate, and resilient in an often-demanding role. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned pro, this discussion will reenergize your commitment to making a difference.

#NonprofitLife #FundraisingSuccess #ProfessionalFundraiser

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In this insightful and playful Halloween episode of The Nonprofit Show, Julia Patrick and Edwin Harvey dive into how "Mindfulness is the New Tech," bridging cutting-edge AI with mindful workplace practices. Although Edwin donned a giraffe costume on his toddler’s advice, he offered profound wisdom from his role as AI Solutions leader at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC). Edwin highlights that adopting AI tools responsibly isn’t just about technological advancement but about cultivating a mindful approach.

Edwin’s view on mindfulness brings clarity to using AI in the workplace: “The more clear we are about what we want to do and why, the more willing we are to explore tools that support those goals.” He explains that technology can foster collaboration, not isolation, in increasingly digital spaces.

For AI to serve nonprofits effectively, Edwin suggests using it as a “junior coworker” – it’s competent yet needs guidance. He shares, “AI may not replace us, but rather support us to thrive if we approach it responsibly.” This mindful approach empowers nonprofits to be transparent about AI’s role with employees, stakeholders, and donors.

Mindfulness, he adds, isn’t only about clarity but self-awareness. When engaging with #AI, Edwin emphasizes, “Understand your emotions around tech – it’s okay to be hesitant; just stay engaged.” His ideas will inspire you to try AI through simple tasks, from content creation to strategic planning.

As #AI continues to evolve, Julia and Edwin’s Halloween-themed episode brings a reassuring perspective for nonprofit professionals navigating the digital landscape. Embracing AI as an ally in achieving organizational purpose and missions begins with awareness and responsibility – making technology work for people, not the other way around. Happy Halloween!!!

#MindfulTech #NonprofitInnovation #AIinNonprofits

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Unearthing the challenges of terminating staff, a responsibility often untrained and rarely discussed among managers. Dana Scurlock from Staffing Boutique stresses the importance of preparation, from access management to the timing and transparency of communication. “The termination conversation should be very straightforward and concise,” Dana says, emphasizing the value of proactive planning. With host Julia Patrick, they explore managing emotional impacts, ensuring fair compensation, and securing digital access to avoid issues. This conversation is an essential guide for any manager needing a clear framework to handle terminations professionally and compassionately.

#NonprofitLeadership #StaffManagement #EmployeeWellbeing

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A winning fundraising strategy requires nonprofits to align their mindset, clarify their message, and consistently apply methods that prioritize donor engagement and community impact. Fundraising expert Peter Heller joins co-hosts Julia Patrick and Sherry Quam Taylor, to explore the essential "Three M's for Fundraising Wins": Mindset, Message, and Method. Peter, CEO and Founder of Heller Fundraising Group, emphasizes the importance of mindset in fundraising, beginning with, "If you don’t think your nonprofit is worth it, then it’s time to pack up or get a new job." According to Peter, nonprofit teams often struggle with self-doubt and limiting beliefs that can dampen their fundraising potential. Sherry adds that, "Mindset isn't 80% of the battle—it’s everything."

The trio then explore the "Message" aspect. Peter advises nonprofits to focus on the positive future they aim to create for their community, rather than portraying themselves as the hero of the story. This strategy, he explains, fosters deeper donor engagement. He says, "Your nonprofit is simply the catalyst or vehicle for positive community change." Finally, the 3 discuss the "Method," where Peter advocates for a structured, year-long approach to fundraising. He stresses the importance of diverse fundraising methods, saying, "It’s not about just one big gala or campaign but engaging major donors consistently every month." This organized approach allows nonprofits to maximize their impact while avoiding common pitfalls, like over-relying on event planning instead of donor relationships.

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