How Donor Segmentation Deepens Relationships and Boosts Retention.

If there’s one truth every nonprofit learns fast, it’s this: Acquiring a donor is hard work! 

AND Keeping them? Well, that’s the secret sauce where most fall short — and it’s where the real magic happens!

You’ve poured your heart into your mission, rallied the community, launched a kick-butt campaign, and—WOW!—the donations came in. 

But what happens next? 

Too often, the momentum fizzles. According to the Fundraising Effectiveness Project, only 45.9% of donors gave again in 2022, and the number is even lower for first-time donors—just 18% stick around for a second gift.

This isn’t just a numbers game. Behind every drop-off is a story: a missed connection, a generic thank-you, or an email that was just a receipt….

So, how can we do better?

The big picture solution is through donor segmentation— it’s a donor management strategy that helps you treat donors less like numbers in a spreadsheet and more like the passionate, complex, big-hearted humans that care about your mission!

Why Donor Retention Should Be Your North Star

Before diving into segmentation, let’s address the “why” of donor retention.

When you retain donors, you’re not just raising more money—you’re building community. Repeat donors are:

• More likely to upgrade their gifts.
  
  
• More inclined to advocate for your cause.
  
  
• More efficient to cultivate than new donors.
  
  

In fact, it costs 5x more to acquire a new donor than to retain an existing one (Bloomerang, 2024). Long-term donors become more than contributors—they become ambassadors, legacy givers, and champions.

But retention doesn’t happen by default. It’s earned through trust, relevance, and a deep sense of connection and community. 

What Is Donor Segmentation, and Why Should You Care?

Donor segmentation is the practice of managing your donors in meaningful groups based on shared characteristics. This allows you to tailor your communication, deepen engagement, and build more authentic relationships at scale.

Every donor is going to be in a different place, perspective, and mindset in their journey with you, so it’s important to communicate as personally and relevantly as possible but at scale. You can’t personally talk to everyone! And you can’t afford to treat your donors like numbers in an account…

Segmentation lets you send the right message, in the right way, to the right person, and at the right time.

Common Segmentation Categories:

• Giving frequency: first-time, recurring, lapsed.
  
  
• Gift size: micro, mid-level, major donors.
  
  
• Engagement level: volunteers, event attendees, newsletter subscribers.
  
  
• Motivation: some give because of personal stories, others because of tax benefits.
  
  
• Communication preference: email, phone, mail, text, and DMs (yes, even DMs).
  
  

When you stop treating donors like a monolith, you start showing them that their relationship with your organization matters—that they matter.

Tiers of Giving, Tiers of Care

Let’s imagine a typical donor base: you’ve got $10 donors who gave to a Facebook fundraiser, a few consistent $50/month sustainers, and a couple of generous $5,000 annual donors. It’s tempting to focus all your energy on the big givers. But that’s a short-term play.

The most successful nonprofits nurture each tier in a way that’s proportionate, personal, and meaningful.

Tier 1: First-Time and Small Gift Donors

• Send a warm, timely thank-you that doesn’t sound automated.
  
  
• Share impact stories specific to their giving level: “Your $25 helped provide a week of groceries to a single parent.”
  
  
• Invite them into low-barrier engagements, such as a quick survey, learn about them, and what prompted their gift. This can be best in a Donor Welcome Series that could include a short insider video.
  
  

Tier 2: Recurring and Mid-Level Donors

• Recognize their loyalty with quarterly updates.
  
  
• Create behind-the-scenes content, and invite them to private gatherings or webinars.
  
  
• Ask for their input: “What issues do you care most about? How would you like to be involved?”
  
  

Tier 3: Major Donors and Champions

• Make it personal, with handwritten notes, coffee meetings, and board-level visibility.
  
  
• Share unique stories around outreach, impact, strategy, and plans.
  
  
• Involve them in vision discussions and high-level engagement when possible.

The goal isn’t to coddle high-dollar donors and ignore everyone else. It’s to match your communication to the depth of the relationship and encourage everyone to level up, at their own pace.

Segmentation in Action: 

Case Study: Charity: Water

This global nonprofit, known for its transparency and innovation, uses segmentation beautifully. While every donor gets an immediate thank-you and follow-up impact story, they go further for their SPRING members (monthly givers):

• Monthly donors get personalized video updates from the field.
  
  
• They receive access to special reports and leadership webinars.
  
  
• They’re addressed as partners, not just donors.
  
  

This thoughtful approach has helped Charity: Water maintain one of the highest donor retention rates in the sector and has transformed passive givers into true believers.

Technology + Humanity = Relationship Superpowers

Yes, segmentation requires data. But it’s not about drowning in spreadsheets. Start simple. Most CRM tools (like Bloomerang, Neon, or Salesforce for Nonprofits) allow you to tag and track donor activity.

But remember: the goal isn’t better automation—it’s better connection.

Use data to remind you that Jane gave after her mom’s cancer diagnosis. That Carlos volunteered three times before he gave. That Aisha prefers texts over emails. Then, act on it.

This is where mindfulness comes in: Use your insights to deepen human connection and show genuine care.

Closing the Loop: Segmentation as an Act of Stewardship

Segmenting isn’t about labels—it’s about listening.

When you know your donors, you’re better able to celebrate them, walk with them, and help them feel like they belong in your mission.

That’s what creates retention. Not just a catchy email subject line or a shiny annual report—but the sense that giving to you is meaningful, personal, and worth doing again.

So, next time you’re tempted to blast the same message to everyone on your list, pause. Segment. Speak to people personally and at scale.

Because when donors feel seen, they stay.

Key Takeaways

• Retention > Acquisition: Keeping donors is more cost-effective and mission-aligned than chasing new ones.
  
  
• Segment Mindfully: Use giving behavior, motivations, and preferences to tailor your messaging.
  
  
• Honor Tiers: Don’t just love your major donors. Treat each tier as a valued partner.
  
  
• Leverage Tech, Keep it Human: Let data inform—never replace—the personal touch.
  
  
• Connection Fuels Commitment: Donors stay when they feel known, not just needed.
  
  

Need help creating a segmentation strategy? 

Start by asking: 

“What do I know about my donors—and what do they need to hear to feel valued today?”

And if you’re looking for a partner in the game, please reach out! 

Sources:

• Fundraising Effectiveness Project (2023): https://afpglobal.org/FundraisingEffectivenessProject
  
  
• Bloomerang: “Donor Retention Metrics” (2023):https://bloomerang.co/blog/10-proven-strategies-to-help-you-retain-new-donors/
  
  
• Charity: Water “The SPRING”: https://www.charitywater.org/donate/the-spring
  
  

Every cause-focused venture has a story to tell. Whether it’s an annual report, a fundraising campaign, or a social media post, storytelling is at the heart of mission-driven work. But in a world where impact is often measured in numbers—donations, impressions, and engagement—it’s easy to fall into the trap of sensationalism, where stories exploit rather than empower and individuals become case studies rather than people.

The Dignified Storytelling Handbook, serves as a guidepost for nonprofits seeking to be ethical, inclusive, and human-centered in how they share stories. This isn’t just about best practices—it’s about fundamentally rethinking how we honor the people whose lives and struggles we seek to amplify and partner with toward a brighter future.  

“Dignified Storytelling”, is a framework and school of thinking that challenges organizations to shift from narratives of pity and sympathy to narratives of power and empathy, ensuring that the dignity of those being represented remains intact, and the hope we are striving for shines through. 

What Is Dignified Storytelling?

Dignified storytelling prioritizes respect, agency, and authenticity when sharing narratives about individuals and communities. It goes beyond consent and into co-creation, ensuring that their voices are amplified and that the community is an active participant in how their experiences are represented. 

The approach is rooted in three core principles:

• Respect for the Storyteller: The person at the center of the story has the right to shape how they are portrayed, what is shared, and how it is used.

• Accuracy and Authenticity: Stories should reflect reality, avoiding exaggeration, distortion, or editing for the sake of impact.

• Balance and Nuance: Every individual’s experience is multi-dimensional, and storytelling should avoid reducing people to their struggles, but amplify their unique worth, resilience, and voice.

Why It Matters: Beyond Clicks and Donations

We live in an era where virality can drive visibility and funding for a cause. Emotional storytelling works—there’s plenty of data proving that narratives that evoke empathy lead to increased donations (Small et al., 2007). However, there’s a fine line between evoking empathy and trying to manipulate emotions to drive action.

For example, an organization providing aid in refugee camps may use stark, distressing images of malnourished children with hollow eyes to elicit support. While such imagery may trigger an immediate emotional response and, in turn, donations, it can also reinforce harmful stereotypes that strip individuals of their complexity and dignity. 

A dignified approach might be to highlight stories of resilience—how a refugee entrepreneur started a business out of the camp, how a mother rebuilt her family’s life after displacement, or how young students are shaping their futures despite adversity.

Common Pitfalls in Cause Focused Storytelling 

If you’ve worked in a mission-driven space, you’ve likely encountered storytelling pitfalls. 

Here are some pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• The “Savior” Narrative
  Centers the donor, organization, or “hero” in a way that overshadows the people being helped.

Solution: Shift the focus. Instead of “We provided clean water to 500 families,” try “Mariam no longer walks five miles for water—now she has time to attend school.”

• The Poverty Trap
  Using dehumanizing imagery or exaggerated despair to elicit sympathy.

Solution: Choose images that reflect strength, agency, and resilience rather than just suffering. Let subjects approve how they’re represented and instill messages of empathy.

• Lack of Informed Consent
  Assuming that a signature on a release form means true consent. 

Solution: Engage subjects in the storytelling process—explain how their stories will be used and give them the option to say no at any stage.

• One-Dimensional Portrayals
  Focusing solely on hardship without acknowledging the full humanity of the person. 

Solution: Tell well-rounded stories. People are not just their struggles—they have hopes, dreams, humor, and skills.

The Role of Ethical Storytelling

So, what can cause-focused ventures do to ensure they practice dignified storytelling?

• Integrate Ethical Storytelling into Organizational Culture: Dignified storytelling shouldn’t be an afterthought—it should be embedded in content strategies, fundraising, and communications policies.

• Train Staff and Partners: Educate teams on ethical storytelling principles and ensure that photographers, videographers, and content creators are aligned with dignity-first storytelling.

• Empower Story Subjects: Give people control over their narratives. Offer them opportunities to review content before publication and ensure they understand the impact of their participation.

• Engage in Reflexive Practice: Continuously evaluate storytelling approaches. Ask: Are we amplifying voices or speaking for others? Are we reinforcing stereotypes or challenging them? Are we prioritizing dignity over impact metrics?

Dignified Stories Are Transformational

The power of storytelling is undeniable. Stories drive change, mobilize communities, and shape public perception. But with that power comes responsibility. Ethical storytelling is not just a checkbox—it’s a commitment to honoring the dignity of those whose voices we amplify.

The Dignified Storytelling Handbook states that “Stories have the power to build bridges or deepen divides.” As we become more mindful and aware, we can tell beautiful stories that will close the gap of disparity, misunderstanding, and exclusion. These stories will amplify the voices that need to be heard and nudge us closer to empathy and peace. 

The next time you prepare a fundraising campaign, draft an impact report, or post on social media, ask yourself: Is this story dignified? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right path toward more ethical storytelling and a more just and peaceful world.

References:

• Dignified Storytelling Handbook. (2021): https://dignifiedstorytelling.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Dignified-Storytelling-Handbook-English-Dec-2021.pdf
• Small, D.A., Loewenstein, G., & Slovic, P. (2007): Sympathy and callousness: The impact of deliberative thought on donations to identifiable and statistical victims. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 102(2), 143-153.

How is your recurring giving program doing? A highly functioning recurring giving program needs to be the mainstay of your revenue streams. Not only does it provide a reliable funding base, but it also deepens relationships with your donors and amplifies impact over time. If this is not you –

Here’s the good news!

Even if you don’t have a recurring giving program, you can still make this one change to your donation page to increase your recurring giving. A study by NextAfter revealed that a simple tweak to a donation page could drastically impact recurring donor conversion rates!

Why Recurring Donations Are a Game Changer

But before we get into the research, let’s talk about why recurring donations matter.

1. Predictability: Nonprofits often struggle with financial uncertainty. Recurring donations create a steady, predictable revenue stream that allows you to plan programs, scale impact, and sleep a little better at night.
2. Lifetime Value: According to a 2023 NextAfter Digital-First Benchmarks Report, recurring donors can be worth nine times more over their lifetime. A modest $10 monthly gift adds up to $120 a year—and that’s before considering upgrades or retention.
3. Deeper Engagement: When someone commits to a monthly gift, they’re signaling a deeper level of trust and investment in your mission. They’re not just donors—they’re partners.

Treat recurring donors as a special community. Create a branded recurring giving program that treats these people as your inner circle!

The Science of Default Choices

Let’s get into the data. In an experiment conducted by NextAfter, a nonprofit tested the impact of defaulting to a recurring gift on their acquisition donation page. Here’s what they found:

• When the default option was set to recurring (instead of one-time), the recurring donor conversion rate increased by 348%.
• This didn’t significantly deter one-time donors—they could still opt out of recurring giving.
• While the average gift decreased, revenue increased by 266.9%

Why does this work? Behavioral science suggests that humans are naturally inclined to stick with default choices. It’s called the “status quo bias.” By making the recurring gift the path of least resistance, you’re gently nudging donors toward a decision that benefits both them and your organization.

If your donation page isn’t already optimized with recurring giving as the default option, it’s time to make the switch.

Designing for Donor Delight

Optimizing for recurring donations isn’t just about tweaking defaults. It’s about creating an experience that makes donors feel good about their decision. Here are some practical tips:

1. Simplify the Process

Every additional step in the donation process is an opportunity for donors to abandon the page. Streamline your form, minimize distractions, and make recurring giving an obvious choice.

2. Frame the Impact

People want to know their gifts are making a difference. Use tangible examples to show how a monthly gift adds up. For instance:

• $25/month = school supplies for a kid
• $50/month = classroom instruction for a month

3. Celebrate Milestones

Recurring donors are in it for the long haul. Celebrate their commitment with personalized thank-yous, anniversary emails, or updates about their impact. Make them feel seen and appreciated.

4. Offer Flexible Options

Give donors control over their recurring gifts. Whether it’s the ability to update their payment method, change the amount, or pause their gift temporarily, flexibility builds trust.

Addressing Opt-Out Anxiety

One common concern is that defaulting to recurring giving might feel pushy or deceptive. But transparency is the antidote.

Make it crystal clear that donors can opt-out at any time. Use friendly, reassuring language like:

“Your monthly gift can be adjusted or canceled anytime. No questions asked!”

When donors feel in control, they’re more likely to stick around.

Test and Iterate

Every nonprofit’s audience is unique, so it’s crucial to test what works for yours. Here are some variables to experiment with:

• Default Settings: Test defaulting to recurring vs. one-time gifts.
• Impact Messaging: Try different ways of framing the donor’s impact.
• Visual Design: Experiment with colors, buttons, and layouts to see what drives conversions.

Use tools like your CRM’s built-in testing features to track results and iterate.

Build A Donor Community

Recurring donations aren’t just a fundraising tactic—they’re a relationship-builder. By optimizing your approach, you’re not just increasing revenue—you’re creating a community of dedicated supporters who believe in your mission as much as you do.

As you implement these strategies, remember: donors are humans, not ATMs. When you approach recurring giving with transparency, gratitude, and a focus on building community, you’re not just raising funds—you’re bringing on long-term partners.

Sources:

• NextAfter: How Defaulting to Recurring Gift on an Acquisition Donation Page Impacts Recurring Donor Conversion

Let’s be real: Our campaigns can often feel like we’re hosting a dinner party where half the guests don’t even see the invite, much less RSVP. 

You plan, you hope, and sometimes, you end up talking to an empty room or falling far short of your campaign goal. 

But what if there was a way to ensure your message not only reaches your audience but sparks action?

This is where integrating text messaging with email campaigns can break through— creating a dynamic duo that can revolutionize how you communicate with your supporters. 

By combining the immediacy and intimacy of text messages with the depth and detail of email, you can amplify your impact, foster deeper connections, and generate impressive returns on investment. Let’s explore how this powerful integration can transform your marketing and fundraising strategies.

Why Text Messaging and Email Work Better Together

Text messaging is personal, direct, and immediate. It boasts a jaw-dropping 98% open rate, which dwarfs the average 20% for email. Meanwhile, email allows for richer storytelling, detailed calls to action, and the ability to reach supporters who might prefer a more traditional form of digital communication.

When these two channels are integrated, magic happens. A case study by NextAfter revealed that sending a follow-up email after a text campaign increased revenue by 55%, with a relative difference of 80.1% (Relative Difference = Traffic x Conversion Rate x Average Gift)

Why does this work so well? Two key reasons:

1. Reinforcement: Texts create urgency, and emails provide the context and depth needed to convert interest into action.
2. Accessibility: Combining two channels ensures you meet supporters where they are, whether they prefer their phones, inboxes, or both.

Turn Interest Into Action with Follow-Up Emails

The follow-up email is the unsung hero of integrated campaigns. While text messages grab attention, emails provide the space to elaborate on the message and include additional details.

Here are some takeaways from a NextAfter experiment:

• Timing matters. Send your follow-up email within 24 hours of the text for maximum impact.
• Consistency is key. Reinforce the message from your text while offering additional details or calls to action.
• Make it actionable. Include a clear, compelling ask, whether it’s a donation, volunteer sign-up, or event registration.

For example, if your text says:

“Hi [First Name], this is [Your Name] from [Nonprofit Name]! It’s cold out and food costs are rising! Your support will help deliver meals to 1,000 families next month. Can we count on you to provide a meal to a family? Reply YES or click here: [link]”

Your email could follow up with:

“Hi [First Name],

Will you provide a meal to a family? Your gift will help provide meals to 1,000 families next month! Without your support families will have to make hard choices to feed their kids that no one should have to make… Click below to make a difference today.

[Donate Now]

Thank you for all that you do!

[Your Name]”

Crafting the Perfect Text Message

Not all text messages are created equal. To maximize their impact, your messages should be concise, compelling, and conversational. Here’s a formula to guide you:

1. Start with personalization. Use the recipient’s name or reference their past engagement with your organization.
2. Express the need. Always answer the “Why” question in everyone’s mind.
3. Lead with impact and make it personal. Highlight a specific outcome their support will achieve and who it will impact.
4. Include a clear CTA. Make it easy for them to take action with a direct link or reply option.

For example:

“Hi [First Name], this is [Your Name] from [Nonprofit Name]! Your support last year helped provide clean water to 500 families. This year you can help 500 new families access clean water. Many of them have newborns and can’t walk long distances for sub-par water. Will you help provide clean water to 1,000 families this year? Reply YES or click here: [link]”

Integrating Text Messaging and Email

To maximize results, combine text messaging and email in a cohesive campaign:

1. Kick-off with a text: Send a personalized message introducing the campaign and its goals.
2. Send a Follow-up email: Within 24 hours, send an email that reinforces the text message while providing a CTA and a link to the email or campaign page.
3. Engage in real-time: Use texts to answer questions and/or provide key updates during the campaign.
4. Close with gratitude: Send an email thanking donors and sharing the impact of their contributions.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Text and Email Campaigns

Let’s address the elephant in the room – texting can feel intrusive. And it will, if done poorly. But when executed thoughtfully, it’s a game-changer. Here’s how to navigate potential pitfalls:

• Respect boundaries. Ensure your recipients have opted into communications. Consent is non-negotiable.
• Keep it brief. Nobody wants to read a novel via text.
• Be human. Use a friendly tone and avoid corporate jargon.

For email, the challenges are different but just as important:

• Avoid spam traps. Use clean email lists and avoid overly promotional language.
• Craft compelling subject lines. Your email won’t matter if it’s never opened.
• Design for mobile. Most people check emails on their phones—make sure yours look good there.

Integration Is More Than a Trend

Integrating text messaging with email is a transformative strategy for cutting through the noise with supporters. 

By leveraging the strengths of each channel, you can create campaigns that can capture attention and drive meaningful action.

As we navigate an increasingly digital landscape, embracing strategies like these isn’t optional—it’s essential. 

Source:NextAfter. “How Sending a Follow-Up Email Impacted Revenue from a Text Campaign.” nextafter.com

If there’s one thing nonprofits and social enterprises should excel at, it’s building connections. But how can you foster genuine relationships in spaces saturated with emails, ads, and cluttered social feeds in today’s increasingly digital world?

The answer: A Community-First Digital Platform

What’s that? 

Think of it as flipping the traditional marketing funnel upside down. Instead of shouting your message into the void and hoping someone hears it, community-first starts with creating a space—an in-person, and virtual gathering spot—where your supporters can thrive, connect, and, most importantly, feel like an integral part of your mission. 

A digital space can take your in-person interactions and multiply them. This is how you can revolutionize your marketing and fundraising strategies to drive engagement, loyalty, and impact.

This does not replace in-person gatherings but allows you to amplify this model for connecting in collaboration with your physical spaces.

Why A Community-First Platform Works

Nonprofits have always been about people—rallying volunteers, engaging donors, and building coalitions to achieve the seemingly impossible. A community-first platform amplifies these efforts by allowing you to take control of your own virtual space and forming it into what your community needs. 

Here is what a community-first platform can do for you:

• Build Trust: People are more likely to support organizations they feel connected to. By creating a digital space for interaction, nonprofits can foster trust and transparency. 

• Increase Engagement: A thriving digital community encourages participation, whether through discussions, shared content, or collective action. It is also a launching pad for training, webinars, live streaming, and video conferencing. 

• Enhance Retention: Supporters who feel part of something bigger than themselves are less likely to churn. It’s easier to retain a donor who feels seen and valued, and a dedicated digital space can help you do that.

• Create Advocates: Active community members become your biggest advocates, spreading your mission far and wide.

The Role of Digital Community Platforms

Gone are the days when community-building was limited to in-person gatherings. Today’s tech landscape offers nonprofits and social impact ventures many tools to create meaningful online spaces. Let’s explore two standout platforms:

1. Mighty Networks

Mighty Networks is a one-stop shop for creating a branded, all-in-one community. It allows nonprofits to build vibrant hubs where supporters can:

• Participate in discussion groups.
• Access exclusive content like videos, articles, and resources.
• Attend live events or webinars.

Why it’s great for nonprofits: Mighty Networks lets you focus on connection and engagement without needing multiple tools. Imagine a donor logging into your community, sharing their thoughts in a forum about your latest campaign, and attending a virtual fundraiser—all in one place.

2. Circle

Circle is another powerhouse platform, especially for nonprofits looking to create intimate and interactive spaces. With features like member directories, event calendars, and integrations with other tools (like Zoom and Slack), Circle allows you to:

• Host workshops or Q&A sessions with your team.
• Recognize top contributors and build member profiles.
• Use private channels to tailor content to specific groups (e.g., major donors or volunteers).

Why it’s great for nonprofits: Circle’s clean interface and versatility make it ideal for fostering smaller, niche communities. For example, you could create separate spaces for your youth programs, donor networks, or advocacy campaigns while keeping everyone connected.

Examples of How You Can Use a Community-First Digital Platform

Bolster A Movement:

A nonprofit focused on food security could bring together local farmers, volunteers, and donors. Members could share gardening tips, host cooking classes, and participate in live webinars about food policy. The results could be increased recurring donations and a vibrant, engaged community advocating for change.

Inspire Advocacy Through Education:

A human rights nonprofit could launch an online course about refugee rights. They could offer the course to supporters as a membership perk, then add a “donation ask” at the end of the course creating a revenue stream while educating members about critical issues. A course can spark discussions and inspire participants to volunteer and become recurring donors.  

Create an Alumni Group:

A youth-focused nonprofit could build a community, where alumni from their mentorship programs could stay connected. By keeping members engaged, they can foster lifelong advocates who regularly donate and volunteer to mentor the next generation.

From Transactions to Transformations

A Community-first digital strategy is a shift in how nonprofits think about engagement. It moves the focus from transactional asks (“Please donate”) to transformational relationships (“Join us in making a difference”).

By investing in a community-first platform, nonprofits can create spaces that are more than just hubs for information and donations—they become ecosystems of change. And in a world that often feels divided, building spaces where people come together for good might just be the most important work we can do.

A real-life example of this is Beyond Type 1:

This nonprofit organization focuses on diabetes advocacy and has built a vibrant community using Mighty Networks. Their platform allows individuals with Type 1 diabetes to connect, share experiences, access resources, and engage in events.

Sources:

• Mighty Networks. “Bring People Together with Your Own Community.” mightynetworks.com
• Circle. “Create Your Community.” circle.so

Hello! 

Fundraising can be a daunting journey, but you’re not alone. You have an ally in navigating the challenges. Through a thoughtful approach, together we can transform your nonprofit’s trajectory. Our approach is anchored in personalized storytelling, seamlessly executed campaigns, and a mindful strategy, designed to elevate your organization.

Let’s dive into how we can go on this journey together.

Personalized Storytelling:

In the hustle of fundraising, your nonprofit’s narrative deserves to be more than a mere report of events and outcomes—it should be a compelling saga that resonates deeply with your tribe. Thoughtful storytelling ensures that your mission’s distinctive facets are not just acknowledged but celebrated. From an individual’s personality, needs, and successes to articulating the tangible impact of every contribution to the community, we’re dedicated to transforming your constituents’ story into a memorable connection that inspires.

Multi-Channel Campaigns:

Fundraising shouldn’t be a solo performance. Through campaign strategy we are ready to stand by your side, leveraging your people and assets to orchestrate multi-channel campaigns that ensure your message reverberates across diverse platforms. From traditional mail to social media engagement, email, and events, we tailor campaigns to suit the preferences of your audience. Mindfulness is our promise, guaranteeing your voice is heard clearly and with heart-felt intention, creating a buzz that sticks in the hearts and minds of your donors.

Expertise:

In the ever-evolving landscape of fundraising, experience is your ally, and we’re here to make it work for you. Our thoughtful mindset integrates analytics, segmentation, and a personable email and social media presence. Picture a world where fundraising becomes a rewarding and engaging experience for you and your supporters. We are on a mission to turn the fundraising landscape into a symphony of campaign processes ensuring a dynamic, enjoyable journey for you and your donors.

Fundraising is hard, but remember, you’re not alone. Let’s do this journey together—aligning heartfelt personalized storytelling, the dynamism of multi-channel campaigns, and a mindful strategy. We’re your partners in creating narratives that resonate, engage, and raise funds that allow you to thrive. Together, let’s sculpt a strategy that fits the uniqueness of your mission and serves your community!

With Gratitude,

Patrick

Connect with me!

Have you ever wondered what truly matters to your donors? The key lies in a simple yet profound act: listening. It’s the cornerstone of fundraising, setting the stage for meaningful connections and informed actions.

In the realm of fundraising, donors take center stage, and you must resist dictating what should matter to them. Instead, the focus shifts to hearing directly from donors and learning about their interests, passions, and motivations.

1: Do Less, Listen More 

The journey begins with establishing two-way communication from the onset. A three-part automated email series for new donors can allow you to prioritize listening right from the start. By encouraging responses to these emails and personalizing replies, this approach will signal a donor-centric attitude.

2: Tune Into Donors

Digital behaviors, website visits, email clicks—these are all signals that reveal a donor’s engagement level and interests. Utilizing tracking tools and social listening enables you to gather insights efficiently, fostering connections based on individual preferences.

3: Survey Your Lists

Regularly seek formal feedback through surveys and interviews. By asking insightful questions, understanding donor motivations, and adapting strategies accordingly, you demonstrate a commitment to refining your fundraising approach and building relationships with donors.

4: Pay Attention to Social Media

Social media is a great listening platform, offering insights into donor interests and sentiments. Engaging actively in online conversations and identifying influential donors can amplify the impact of your fundraising.

5: Map Relationships

Understanding donors within their communities is powerful. By mapping relationships based on social groups, you can suggest more personalized actions, building micro-movements for your cause.

6: Be Curious. Ask Questions

Every interaction is an opportunity to learn more. Whether through casual conversations or formal surveys, organizations can extract valuable insights by staying curious and encouraging team members to do the same.

7: Have A Feedback Loop

Feedback loops should be simple, standardized, and actionable. Closing the loop on donor feedback ensures a responsive approach and strengthens donor relationships.

8: Group Donors By Personas

Creating donor personas based on collected data allows organizations to tailor communications, content, and actions for different donor segments. This personalized approach enhances the overall donor experience.

For example, suppose you discover three distinct donor groups through a feedback loop. By defining new donor personas, you can now tailor your communications to appeal to each group’s specific interests.

In the world of fundraising, every interaction is a chance to listen, learn, and connect. By placing donors at the heart of the journey, you can forge lasting relationships and make a meaningful impact.

With Gratitude –Reach out to learn more!

The journey of running a nonprofit organization is filled with challenges and fundraising can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving you wondering where to turn for support. Fear not, here is a fundraising framework just for you!

1. Know Your Audience: Build Meaningful Connections

In the world of engaged fundraising, understanding your audience is key. Take the time to connect with your supporters on a personal level. This insight can help you to craft a compelling stories that resonates with them. Share stories of impact, showcasing the real-life change your nonprofit is making. Send a timely “Thank You” note and include a bit of encouragement. Make your supporters feel like integral members of your community, and they’ll be more likely to engage and contribute.

2. Use Multi-Channel Campaigns: Meet Your Donors Where They Are

Multi-channel fundraising campaigns help you to build a following, engage constituents, and raise money! Don’t limit yourself to a single platform – a diversified and integrated approach is the key. Engage with your audience across various channels, including social media, email, and even traditional methods like direct mail. By meeting your people where they are, you increase the chances of catching their attention and building a relationship that goes beyond a follow, a like, or a one-time donation.

3. Segment Your Donor Base: Personalization Matters

Segmentation will supercharge your campaigns and amplify your engagement. The process will also help you understand who your followers, constituents, and donors are. Personalization is not just a buzzword; it’s a strategy that can significantly boost engagement. Identify key segments within your database and tailor your messaging to address their specific interests and motivations. A personalized approach makes people feel valued and understood, fostering a deeper connection with your cause.

4. Streamline Technology: Simplify Your Processes

Technology is your ally in the quest for fundraising success. Leverage fundraising platforms, CRM systems, and other tools that can streamline your processes. Automation can help reduce administrative burdens, allowing you to focus more on building relationships with donors. Embracing technology doesn’t just make your life easier; it also creates a more seamless and enjoyable experience for your supporters.

5. Set Clear Goals: Inspire Action with a Purpose

Your donors want to be a part of something meaningful. Clearly articulate your fundraising goals and how they contribute to your overarching mission. Make your goals specific, measurable, and time-bound. When donors understand the impact of their contributions, they are more likely to feel a sense of purpose and urgency, driving them to take action.

6. Celebrate Milestones: Show Appreciation and Recognition

Acknowledging the efforts and contributions of your donors is crucial for building lasting relationships. Create a culture of appreciation with timely recognition. Wait too long and you may miss the opportunity for a second gift. Show appreciation through social media shout-outs, personalized emails, “Thank You” cards, and donor appreciation events. You need to make your supporters feel like the heroes they are.

7. Diversify Revenue Streams: Plan for Long-Term Sustainability

To thrive it’s essential to diversify your revenue streams. Explore various fundraising avenues, such as recurring campaigns, business partnerships, workplace giving, event sponsorships, and peer-to-peer programs. By establishing a diverse funding portfolio, you not only insulate your organization from economic uncertainties but also create a foundation for long-term sustainability.

In the fundraising journey, remember that every interaction with your supporters is an opportunity to strengthen your community and advance your mission. Embrace the insights shared and infuse them with your unique passion and dedication.

Hopefully, this has been a source of inspiration and a beacon of hope. Together, we can create a future where your nonprofit not only survives but flourishes, making a lasting impact on the lives you touch.

I am here to help with personalized storytelling, multi-channel campaigns, and a mindful approach, so you’re poised to not just survive but thrive in the world of fundraising.

Keep inspiring, keep connecting, and keep bringing hope to the world.

With gratitude,

Patrick

When the city, nonprofit, and state resources became overwhelmed with the influx of migrants at the beginning of 2023, we responded by producing a collaborative forum to gather service providers, churches, businesses, and concerned citizens to learn how to engage and support our new neighbors.

The Love Thy Neighbor forum was an insightful discussion as we heard from Shantelle & Chad Mullinik with the West Colfax Lampstand. As well as Juan with Providence Bible & Roberto with Renuevo Church. 

It seemed like an appropriate time for those who had been working diligently on the issue to share and connect, as well as to glean and discern the next steps.

When Roberto and Juan shared their story of working together to serve 70 Venezuelan migrants who had walked through the doors of Renuevo Church, it was apparent that their collaboration was not only unique but possibly a future model for bridging resources to serve the needs of our new neighbors.

We are exploring how to bridge the resource gap and encourage collaborative service models similar to Providence Bible and Renuevo Church.

It was a beautiful evening remembering Isabella Joy Thallas and loved ones lost to violence as we prayed for healing and peace at the second annual Bella Joy Gardens Memorial.

We stood with Ana Hernandez-Thallas to remember loved ones lost and to celebrate the life of her daughter Isabella Joy Thallas, a ballpark murder victim, whose life was tragically taken by gun violence on June 10th, 2020.

At this small park in the heart of Denver, we celebrated life with food, fun, and friendship. Then we entered into a time of remembrance, prayer, and a candlelight vigil to raise our light toward all who have suffered and mourned, spreading healing and hope with our lives in the city.