The Nonprofit Show American Nonprofit Academy

Expert strategies for planning successful volunteer appreciation events with insights from Melissa Pinard, Head of Product Management at Bloomerang Volunteer. Learn how to effectively recognize and engage your volunteers, seamlessly integrate them into your donor campaigns, and use data-driven approaches to highlight their impact. This comprehensive discussion offers best practices on organizing appreciation events that honor and support volunteers' dedication and foster deeper connections within your non-profit.  Improve your volunteer management techniques and celebrate your volunteers in a way that boosts retention and encourages their ongoing contribution to your cause.

Melissa, having a decade-long experience in volunteer management, discussed the often-overlooked potential of volunteers as crucial donors to their causes, given their established commitment and passion.

Melissa describes how volunteers frequently transition into donors because they are already deeply connected to the cause, a point often missed in non-profit management. "Statistics show volunteers give more because they're already passionate about the cause that they are giving their time to; a majority of them are actually already giving their dollars too," she noted, highlighting a big opportunity for non-profits to nurture these dual-role contributors.

During the interview, Melissa outlines best practices for integrating volunteer and donor management, suggesting that volunteers should not be excluded from fundraising campaigns. She points out the importance of recognizing volunteers not only for their time but also for their potential financial contributions. "There's no reason why you should exclude them from the email campaigns, in that sense as well," Melissa explains, advocating for inclusive communication strategies that engage volunteers across all organizational activities.

The fast-paced discussion also digs into the specifics of volunteer appreciation. Melissa advises against using the existing volunteer pool to organize appreciation events, suggesting instead that staff members or paid employees take on this role to ensure the event is genuinely appreciative and not an additional burden to volunteers. She details how to effectively use data and storytelling to demonstrate the impact of volunteers, enhancing their engagement and emotional investment in the organization.

Continuing, Melissa points to the importance of public acknowledgment and the strategic use of social media to celebrate and recognize volunteers' efforts, not only boosting their morale but also promoting the organization's cause through visible affiliations and endorsements by volunteers.
Watch on Video!

Learn more: www.bloomerang.com
Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_Show
Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

A vibrant conversation with Mike Geiger, President and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).  You’ll discover how Geiger's career, marked by unexpected opportunities and strategic pivots, exemplifies the dynamic nature of nonprofit leadership. Learn about AFP's huge role in enhancing fundraising practices, its commitment to ethical standards, and its proactive approach to addressing the quickly evolving needs of fundraisers and philanthropy.  Mike shares valuable perspectives on embracing technological changes and preparing for future trends in giving.

Mike’s career trajectory, sprinkled with serendipitous turns, highlights a journey not guided by a rigid plan but by grabbing opportunities that aligned with his ethos. He amusingly recounted, "I wasn't planning on getting my MBA, but then I did," illustrating how unplanned paths often lead to fulfilling destinations.

Mike, who also holds a CPA, points us to the importance of flexibility and openness in professional growth. He pointed out, "Being open, having a growth mindset, and when there's opportunities that fit into what your life ethos is, then you take those." This mindset has seen him evolve from pursuing advanced degrees to dedicating his career to the nonprofit sector, demonstrating an adaptive journey fueled by unexpected yet welcome shifts.

At the heart of this discussion is AFP's role as a cornerstone in the fundraising community, boasting nearly 30,000 members and around 200 chapters globally. Mike proudly explained the organization's mission, "We provide education on best practices, we focus on improving the skills that our members have in the fundraising area but also in other areas." He stresses the multifaceted roles fundraisers often play, whilst highlighting the critical need for continuous professional development.

Continuing, Mikes digs into the evolving landscape of fundraising, particularly how technological advancements and changing demographics are shaping new strategies. The conversation  touches on AFP's ethical framework, foundational since 1960, which continues to guide fundraisers in their professional conduct.

Mike offers an optimistic view of the future of fundraising, citing research predicting a rebound in philanthropic giving. He spends time explaining the importance of adapting to the philanthropic inclinations of younger generations like millennials and Gen Z, who are poised to play a significant role in future giving trends.

This learning episode is a compelling blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, offering a window into the agile and ever-evolving world of nonprofit management and fundraising.

Watch on Video!
Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_Show
Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The CEO of Accessible Avenue shares his personal and professional journey in advocating for accessible transportation, sharing insights on the specific challenges faced by people with disabilities and calling for a systemic approach to inclusivity in nonprofit operations and services.  Ron Brooks, who is blind, brings a unique perspective as someone who directly experiences the challenges he advocates against, emphasizing the importance of lived experience in the nonprofit sector.

Ron’s organization, Accessible Avenue, consults with transportation agencies and technology developers to improve services for people with disabilities. It also educates community advocates on navigating the complex public transportation industry to effectively champion accessibility improvements.

Throughout the interview, Ron emphasizes the transformative power of transportation in his life. He recounts his transition from a vision-impaired child in Indiana to a key player in the transportation sector. His personal struggles with mobility and public transportation fueled his passion for making these systems more inclusive for people with disabilities. Ron's narrative illustrates the broader impact of transportation accessibility on individuals’ independence and quality of life.

Ron encapsulates his view: "I don’t have to figure out my ‘why’ in terms of these issues, these issues affect every day that I walk around on planet Earth. I’m living the reality that I’m in." This statement highlights his intrinsic motivation and commitment to improving transportation access, rooted in his daily experiences.

Ron continues on the broader implications of transportation accessibility for nonprofits. He points out that about 19% to 25% of the U.S. population has a disability that affects their mobility and access to traditional transportation means. He stresses that accessibility issues are not niche but affect a significant portion of the community, including the families and colleagues of those directly impacted.

Ron advocates for proactive engagement by nonprofits in transportation planning. He suggests appointing dedicated personnel to understand and influence local transportation policies and practices, ensuring that the needs of clients and staff with disabilities are considered. This advocacy, Ron argues, should be integral to an organization's mission and operations, emphasizing the local nature of transportation decisions.

Watch on Video!
Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_Show
Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Discover practical tips on managing board transitions effectively, ensuring diversity, and communicating strategically to maintain continuity and build future leadership. This conversation provides valuable guidance for organizations aiming to navigate the complexities of board succession smoothly and sustainably.  Watch on Video! 
We explore the often-intimidating realm of board succession planning with Yvonne Evers, founder and CEO of Succession app. As they explore this crucial topic, Yvonne sheds light on her extensive experience in this field, emphasizing that board succession planning is not a new concept but a necessary strategic process that organizations should have embraced long ago.

Yvonne Evers highlights the evolving dynamics of board membership, particularly the shift towards shorter terms for younger board members compared to the decades-long commitments of past members. She states, "This isn’t the only time we need succession planning. Starting in 2010, about 10,000 people a day were turning 65, a silver tsunami," indicating the ongoing and significant demographic shifts that necessitate proactive succession strategies.

Her approach to board succession planning is rooted in her comprehensive background as an HR consultant and board member. She narrates how her firsthand experiences led to the creation of the Succession app: "I started with an Excel and Word-based system before deciding to develop a software solution to help boards manage their succession planning more efficiently," revealing the organic evolution of her business model in response to a clear market need.

One key aspect of Yvonne's methodology is ensuring that current board members do not feel threatened by the planning process. She explains, "When we talk about competencies, we’re not trying to push current members out. It’s about planning for continuity," reassuring members that the process is designed to enhance, not undermine, their contributions.

The discussion also ventures into the practicalities of implementing a successful succession plan. Yvonne discusses the importance of anticipating board turnover and understanding the specific competencies and diversity needed for future boards. She emphasizes communication and preparation, suggesting that "it’s all about starting the conversation early and making sure everyone understands the why behind what we’re doing."

As the conversation wraps up, Yvonne's insights offer a blend of reassurance and strategic advice, aiming to demystify the process and encourage more robust planning efforts within boards across various sectors. This engaging discussion not only highlights the challenges of board succession planning but also presents tangible solutions, underscoring the importance of structured approaches and thoughtful communication in navigating these transitional times.



Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_Show
Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofit’s questions and expert’s answers about nonprofit board engagement, fundraising expectations of board members, financial literacy among nonprofit board members, and the confidentiality of professional coaching paid for by organizations. Host Meredith Terrian shares the microphone with Muhi Khwaja, from the National University Fundraising Academy and co-founder of the American Muslim Community Foundation.

Regarding board engagement, Muhi starts with the importance of full board participation in fundraising efforts, suggesting various ways for board members to contribute, such as making financial commitments or leveraging their networks. He advocates for clear expectations and training for board members to interpret financial reports effectively.

On a question from a viewer about professional coaching, Muhi points to the need for confidentiality in coaching contracts, highlighting the importance of privacy for effective coaching sessions.

The conversation also touches on setting board policies, including term limits and age limits. Muhi supports term limits as a means to prevent founder syndrome and promote fresh perspectives on the board. However, he advises caution regarding age limits, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives and experiences regardless of age. As Muhi Khwaja aptly summarizes, "There's a lot of value in age as well."

Host Meredith Terrian echoes Muhi's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of clear policies and training for board members to ensure effective governance and decision-making within nonprofit organizations.

This dynamic conversation amplifies several best practices for nonprofit board governance, fundraising, financial literacy, and professional development, as is the  nature of nonprofit management.

View on Video!
Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_Show
Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The Nonprofit Fixer goes deep into the 'seven mistakes nonprofit executive directors make' and offers valuable strategies to avoid these blunders. Whether you're a current nonprofit leader or aspiring to be one, this learning episode is packed with essential tips and firsthand experiences to help you navigate the role of Executive Director!  Sean Kosofsky, with his three decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, passionately shares his insights, having observed numerous nonprofit leaders navigating their roles with limited support, Sean has tailored his career towards enhancing executive director leadership through specialized coaching and consulting.

As Sean details these frequent missteps, he begins with the importance of employment contracts for nonprofit leaders, distinguishing them as crucial for job security and organizational commitment. He explains, "In the private sector, having an employment contract is standard, especially if you're an executive. But in the nonprofit sector, what I've found is that most nonprofit leaders do not have them unless you're at like, three million, four million, five million or larger size budget organizations." . . ..  amplifying the disparity between the sectors and the vulnerabilities executive directors face without contractual protections.

Continuing, Sean discusses other vital areas where executive directors often stumble, such as financial oversight before starting a role, building rapport with the board chair, and the imperative of being involved in fundraising. He stresses that understanding and actively participating in fundraising is non-negotiable for effective leadership.

This lively discussion, with Host Meredith Terrian, also touches on the significance of having a robust relationship with the board chair, managing team dynamics effectively, and the strategic importance of saying 'no' to maintain focus and mental well-being. Each point is highlighted with practical advice and solutions.

Learn even more at: www.thenonprofitfixer.com

Watch on Video!
Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_Show
Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show