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  • Trust First, Vision Second?

    We spend thousands on strategic planning retreats and vision and mission statements. We craft inspiring messages about where we’re going. But there’s a fatal flaw…

  • A Boss’s Real Job is to Help Others Rise

    There’s a subtle but powerful visual that captures the difference between weak leadership and strong leadership. Imagine a boss standing tall, saying—sometimes silently, sometimes out…

  • How AI is Transforming the Nonprofit World: Smarter Marketing, Grant Writing, and Donor Outreach

    Our nonprofit world is fueled by passion, purpose, and people power. But in an increasingly digital world, organizations are also turning to artificial intelligence (AI)…

  • Navigating Uncertain Times

    Uncertain times can bring anxiety and challenges, but as nonprofit leaders, we have navigated storms before, and we will do so again. The key is…

  • Working With a Development Committee

    Utilized wisely, your development committee can be the strongest committee on your board.  In a peer-to-peer relationship, they can lead an active participation in fundraising.  …

  • Communication Is Key

    Communication is the top skill all executive directors need to develop and continually work to improve.   How do you rate your skill in that area?  …

  • Development Committee – Yes or No?

    I am often asked two questions about development committees that I will attempt to provide some perspective on. 1.       We are a small board, should we…

  • The Development Puzzle

    My daughter likes puzzles.   As I was helping her one day, I got frustrated. She was fitting pieces together so effortlessly, and I was…

  • Action Plans

    Planning your way to success! As I perform development or organizational audits on nonprofits, I have noticed one thing that separates those who are making…

  • Executive Directors and Fundraising

    As I chat with executive directors about fundraising and especially major and deferred giving, here are some of the push backs I receive: 1. I…

  • Fundraising During a Pandemic

    Recently I was asked a question – what would you do if your board said we cannot fundraise during a pandemic? I would suggest to…

  • Fundraising in Times of Adversity

    Fundraising in times of adversity! I have been asked lately about fundraising during this time.   Should we?  YES!  How? As I reflect on fundraising overall,…