First Day Podcast

In this forward-looking episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with AI practitioner and marketing maestro Chris Strom of Sunrise Association to tackle a question that’s buzzing louder than a caffeinated chatbot: what can artificial intelligence actually do for fundraising? Chris doesn’t sugarcoat it. Yes, AI can be wrong. Yes, hallucinations happen. But as he explains, the magic isn’t in blind trust, it’s in smart partnership. Think of AI not as your replacement, but as your overachieving intern who works at lightning speed and still needs supervision. Used wisely, it augments your intelligence, multiplies your output, and frees you to do what fundraisers do best: build real relationships with real people. One of the biggest “aha” moments Chris shares is the power of prompting, because typing a lazy one-liner into ChatGPT and hoping for brilliance is like whispering “abracadabra” and expecting Broadway. His practical CRAFT framework is the game-changer: Context (who you are and what’s happening), Role (the perspective the AI should take), Action (what you want it to do), Format (email, report, etc.), and Tone (make it sound like you). With the right ingredients, AI transforms from a novelty into heavy machinery for your marketing and development shop. The difference between “meh” output and mission-moving copy? Specificity and strategy. Chris also shares how AI becomes a nonprofit’s “second brain.” By using transcription tools like MacWhisper alongside platforms such as ChatGPT, he captures meetings, webinars, and brainstorming sessions; then instantly generates summaries, next steps, and polished notes. The result? Hours saved. Brainpower preserved. Follow-up executed. He’s even built custom GPTs loaded with brand guidelines, mission language, and campaign data so his entire team can generate on-brand, accurate messaging without second-guessing tone or statistics. It’s like having a marketing assistant who never sleeps and always remembers the style guide. The episode closes with a practical, and slightly prophetic, note: invest wisely. While free tools can be powerful, paid subscriptions offer critical privacy protections and better performance. For roughly $20 a month, Chris argues, the return on investment is enormous when measured in reclaimed hours and enhanced productivity. His advice? Start small. Pick one task you’re doing today, invite AI into the process, and experiment. We’re still in the “early innings,” he says, and the fundraisers who learn to swing now will be miles ahead as the technology matures. The future isn’t coming, it’s here. And for nonprofits willing to engage thoughtfully, AI may just be the most practical superpower in the fundraising toolkit.

In this data-packed episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes back philanthropic powerhouses Genevieve Shaker, Ph.D., and Dan Heist, Ph.D., to unpack the brand-new Donor Advised Fund Research Collaborative report. And folks, the headline is clear: DAFs are not just “a thing,” they are a major thing. With $90 billion flowing into donor advised funds in 2024 and a record-setting $65 billion flowing back out in grants. Contributions rebounded sharply after a 2023 dip, mirroring stock market recovery, and now represent roughly 15% of all charitable giving in the U.S. That’s not pocket change, that’s a seismic shift in how philanthropy moves. One of the biggest evolutions? The rise of “donation processors.” Think workplace giving platforms and online tools quietly powering charitable accounts behind the scenes. These platforms have helped push the total number of DAF accounts to 3.6 million, doubling in just five years. Some of these accounts are smaller and transactional, but together they’re transforming access to philanthropy. The barrier to entry has dropped so low that opening a DAF can require little to no initial investment. Translation: this isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy anymore. The “millionaire next door” may now be the “DAF holder next door.” The episode also tackles the payout debate, and yes, there’s math, but the good kind. The reported payout rate of 25% (compared to private foundations’ typical 5–6%) reflects grants made relative to assets held at the start of the year. Meanwhile, the “flow rate,” dollars out compared to dollars in, shows even more velocity. While most DAFs are actively granting, about 8–10% remain relatively inactive over time, sparking ongoing policy discussions. But the data tell a powerful story: when contributions rise, grantmaking rises too. DAF donors aren’t just storing wealth, they’re moving it. For fundraisers, the takeaway is crystal clear: get in the game. Ask donors if they have a DAF. Add it to your event forms. Include it in major gift conversations. Use the publicly available data to identify sponsors in your region and benchmark your results. DAFs are increasingly central to philanthropic strategy across income levels, and fundraisers who understand payout rates, flow dynamics, and donor motivations will be better equipped to engage today’s strategic givers. Bottom line? The money is moving, and the fundraisers who are informed, curious, and proactive will be right there to help direct it toward mission.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. welcomes fundraising veteran Rick Shadyac, JD, former longtime leader of ALSAC, the fundraising powerhouse behind St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Major donors love bold vision. But how do leaders decide which big ideas are brilliant… and which are just bonkers? Rick’s advice is refreshingly practical: start with the problem you’re trying to solve and the audience you’re trying to reach. High-wealth strategy? Mass marketing? Different tools for different tribes. Big ideas aren’t about flash, they’re about fit, feasibility, and fearless execution. Rick shares the jaw-dropping case study of partnering with billionaire entrepreneur Jared Isaacman on a space mission tied to a $100 million (eventually $125 million) challenge gift. The catch? ALSAC had to match it. The risk? Enormous. The reward? Potentially transformational. Instead of auctioning off a seat, they democratized giving, raffle tickets for a dollar, opening the door to entirely new donors, especially younger, space-loving supporters who’d never given to a children’s hospital before. The result? A $250 million fundraising triumph, a successful mission featuring St. Jude patient ambassador Hayley Arceneaux, and global exposure, including a Netflix documentary. Not exactly your standard bake sale. But here’s the leadership lesson behind the rocket fuel: courageous ideas require courageous cultures. Rick describes intentionally hiring people who would challenge him, not nod politely while doodling in meetings. Drawing from his background as a lawyer, he encouraged constructive disagreement, diverse perspectives, and even role-playing in interviews to test whether candidates would push back. Debate in the room? Absolutely. Lock arms when you leave? Non-negotiable. The formula: hire smart, mission-driven people who think differently than you do, and then actually listen to them. That diversity of thought, age, background, and expertise becomes the engine that powers bold, informed decisions. Finally, the episode lands squarely on the CEO-board dynamic. Boards are often risk-averse, but Rick urges leaders to be transparent, inclusive, and above all, communicative. Educate your board. Prepare them. Build trust before you need it. And when it’s time to fundraise, confidence follows preparation. Donors can sense when an idea has been stress-tested and mission-aligned. As Rick reminds us, fundraising happens at the speed of trust, and the donor is the hero of every story. Big ideas may capture attention, but disciplined leadership, shared ownership, and relentless focus on mission are what ultimately turn bold vision into transformational gifts.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. welcomes Mladenka Majerić, CEO of the Yellow Dot Foundation in Croatia and a respected voice in philanthropy across Central and Eastern Europe. Right out of the gate, the duo tackles a deceptively simple but often neglected truth: fundraising doesn’t start with an appeal, a gala, or a clever email subject line, it starts with a strategic plan. Or, as this episode gently but firmly argues, with the process of building one. Mladenka makes the case that while organizations can raise money without a strategic plan, doing so is like driving cross-country with passion but no map. Strategic planning aligns mission, vision, goals, and activities, giving teams structure, clarity, and confidence. More than that, she frames it as a leadership and team-building tool. When boards, staff, and leadership are meaningfully involved, through workshops, surveys, and candid conversations, the process becomes a kind of organizational group therapy (the healthy kind). People communicate more honestly, understand their roles better, and walk away owning the plan instead of shelving it to collect dust. The conversation then zeroes in on how strategic plans fuel effective fundraising. A good plan is a living document that feeds directly into operational, communications, and fundraising plans. Mladenka highlights the importance of tools like a theory of change, showing how programs lead to outcomes and real-world impact. That clarity makes it far easier for fundraisers to answer donors’ favorite question: “So… how exactly are you changing the world?” Donors, foundations, and funders increasingly expect to see a clear, public-facing strategic plan, and yes, they really do check your website. Finally, the episode lands on inspiration, the secret sauce. Beyond structure and accountability, strategic planning helps organizations articulate why they exist, how they’re unique, and what values guide their work. Vision, mission, and values, when expressed in clear, human language, shift mindsets from “we deliver services” to “we create change.” Bill and Mladenka remind listeners that in a world of millions of nonprofits, distinctiveness matters. The idea is already in your head and the passion is already in your heart. The strategic plan simply brings them together, turning clarity into confidence, and confidence into inspiration for donors, staff, boards, and communities alike.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with Carly Berna, Vice President of Marketing (and the impressively titled “Fundraiser in Residence”) at Virtuous. Carly shares findings from the latest Virtuous Benchmark Report, a treasure trove of data gleaned from over 570 nonprofits using the platform for at least three years. The result? A layered look at donor trends across sectors and revenue sizes, from faith-based orgs to human services, all the way from scrappy sub-million-dollar shops to the $10M+ fundraising heavyweights. “Flat doesn't mean bad,” Carly notes, sometimes staying steady means you’ve weathered the storm. Bill and Carly dig into the meaty data highlights, starting with online giving. The average online gift increased by $5 in the last year and is up a whopping $22 since 2020, showing just how powerful digital channels are becoming, no surprise given Boomers are now a driving force online (61% of them give that way!). Meanwhile, Carly waves the mid-level donor flag with pride, celebrating growth in this oft-ignored group. Nonprofits are learning not to put all their donor eggs in one major gift basket. The conversation turns to recurring giving, a favorite of sustainability-minded fundraisers everywhere. While the average nonprofit sees 13% of their revenue coming from recurring donors, Virtuous’ top quartile of performers boasts a hefty 33%. Donor retention is also slowly rebounding post-pandemic, reaching a six-year high of 50%. But Carly urges listeners not to settle, “Top performers hit 67%, so shoot for the stars!” Finally, the duo dives into donor acquisition and lifetime value. New donor acquisition is slipping, now around 30%, but those who do give are investing more over time, with average donor lifetime value rising to $784. Carly’s message is clear: nonprofits need to be smart, not just generous: track your data, find your gaps, and don’t just pat yourself on the back for being average. With the right balance of stewardship, segmentation, and sustainability, nonprofits can build donor relationships that last longer than most gym memberships.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes back the ever-insightful Michele Dole, MS, CFP, Senior Vice President at Key Private Bank and cherished faculty member. Michele brings her unique perspective as both a former fundraiser and a current financial advisor, helping to demystify the world of wealth and financial advising for those in the nonprofit sector. From her origins in hospital foundations to earning her Certified Financial Planner certification, Michele shares how her deep understanding of financial strategy intersects beautifully with charitable giving. “It’s not just about tax efficiency,” she emphasizes, “but about helping clients make meaningful, effective gifts.” The conversation shines a light on how fundraisers and financial advisors can, and should, collaborate. Advisors, Michele explains, aren’t gatekeepers; they’re partners. With full visibility into a client’s financial picture, they can help determine not just if a gift should be made, but how, when, and with what assets. Whether it’s a cash donation, a stock transfer, or a required minimum distribution from a retirement account, financial advisors are instrumental in making philanthropic dreams a financially sound reality. And yes, Michele confirms, she and her colleagues often raise the topic of philanthropy with clients, driven by their role in supporting holistic financial and personal goals. For fundraisers wondering whether to engage with a donor’s advisor, Michele has one golden rule: ask for the donor’s permission first. Once that’s secured, sharing a comprehensive gift proposal with the advisor can be immensely beneficial. Advisors often know what else is on a donor’s financial horizon: other commitments, business sales, or major expenses, that could impact the timing or structure of a gift. And if you’re hosting breakfast events for local planners? Keep it up! While they may not be gatekeepers, financial professionals are key connectors in the community and valuable allies in understanding and championing your mission. This episode also introduces an exciting new offering: Philanthropy for Advisors, a course designed to equip financial professionals with a deeper understanding of charitable giving and the nonprofit sector. Michele is stepping in as lead faculty, bringing her full-circle experience to bear in educating a new generation of philanthropic partners. As always, Bill closes the episode with a hearty reminder; when fundraisers team up with informed financial advisors, donors win, missions grow, and generosity thrives.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., digs into the booming world of artificial intelligence and what its rapid rise might mean for your fundraising future. Bill highlights the many ways AI is already helping fundraisers: writing donor letters, prepping for meetings, and identifying potential major donors; all with greater efficiency and effectiveness. He shares real-life examples from colleagues like Travis Tester and Andy Price, who are saving hours of prep time each week, allowing them to meet with significantly more donors and deepen relationships. But while the AI-powered present looks promising, Bill turns our gaze toward a looming challenge: the potential financial instability behind AI’s rapid expansion. Drawing on historical parallels like the railroad boom, the 1929 crash, the dot-com bubble, and the housing crisis, Bill warns that the current pattern of over-investment in AI, particularly in data centers and tech infrastructure, could lead to another economic downturn. High debt, investor expectations, and revenue shortfalls are forming a familiar and risky cocktail. And if AI financing collapses, the ripple effect could reach nonprofits everywhere. What does this mean for fundraisers? Bill reminds us that recessions tend to dampen charitable giving, not dramatically on average, but enough to warrant strategic planning. Different sectors feel the impact differently: human services often hold steady or rise, while the arts may see sharp declines. He encourages organizations to review their operating reserves and endowments, consult with financial advisors, and engage their boards in proactive scenario planning. Whether the market soars, stalls, or stumbles, it pays to be ready. As always, Bill centers the core truth: giving is driven by donor values and passion. But the “wealth effect,” how much and when people give, is shaped by the broader economy. So yes, keep watching those economic indicators, but don’t lose sight of your mission.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with sits down with A.J. Steinberg, CFRE, CEO of Queen Bee Fundraising and certified nonprofit rockstar, to talk about the not-so-small challenge of engaging Millennials and Gen Z as donors, volunteers, and board members. AJ opens with a truth bomb: nonprofits have talked about multi-generational giving for decades, but fear of change has kept many stuck in their ways. Older generations may be clinging to legacy and routine, but younger folks want impact and involvement. A.J. brings the empathy and the strategy. Her secret weapon? Creating cross-generational task forces with influential voices from each age group to spark collaboration and build relationships. It's not about token seats at the gala table, it’s about co-creating something new. And speaking of galas, Steinberg makes it crystal clear: Gen Z doesn’t want to dress up for rubber chicken. Let them lead their own events and watch engagement soar. As A.J. says, Millennials and Gen Z aren’t disengaged, they just engage differently. Give them space to create, and they’ll show up, selfies and all. But where do you find these elusive next-gen leaders? A.J. suggests you start by looking under your nose; your volunteer list and your staff. If you’re a smaller nonprofit, even better: there’s less red tape and more room to innovate. And if you’re lucky enough to have Millennial or Gen Z staff already on board, ask them who else might care about your mission. Gen Z wants to serve causes, not just organizations; so your mission better be front and center. A.J. reminds us that attracting younger generations isn’t just a “nice to have,” it’s a matter of survival. Be clear, be inclusive, and let your mission shine through the noise. Legacy giving? That starts younger than you think, with 55 being the average age people start thinking about it. So don’t wait. Be intentional, be open-minded, and remember, t’s your impact that’ll keep them coming back.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., rings in the new year with a bang, and a tax code, diving headfirst into the new federal tax policies that officially took effect on January 1, 2026. While the legislation passed in mid-2025, the real fireworks are just starting for fundraisers. Bill breaks it all down, starting with the triumphant return of the Universal Charitable Deduction (UCD), now juiced up to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for joint filers. That’s right: even if your donors don’t itemize, they can still get tax credit for their generosity. The new policy also brings in the “ceiling and floor.” High-income donors can now only itemize at the 35% rate, and folks outside that bracket can't deduct the first 0.5% of their adjusted gross income. Sound confusing? Maybe. But Bill reassures fundraisers: unless your donor database is loaded with ultra-wealthy supporters, this might not move the needle much. Still, if you're courting those high-capacity givers, these changes are worth a donor-friendly conversation. Speaking of deductions, the SALT (State And Local Taxes) cap got a spicy upgrade too, up from $10,000 to $40,000. That’s a potential game-changer for itemization and, by extension, charitable giving. While taxes are never the main motivator for giving, they do play a supporting role in the drama of generosity. More itemizers = more donors who might feel nudged to give, or give more. Fundraisers, your mission is to weave this into donor conversations with a healthy dose of donor appreciation and mission alignment. The biggest “will-they-won’t-they” question hangs over the business sector. New rules make the first 1% of pre-tax profit donations non-deductible, since businesses typically give 1%. But before anyone panics, Bill reminds us: business giving isn’t just about tax perks. It’s about government relations, employee morale, community goodwill, and, of course, good ol' fashioned marketing. The four R’s: regulations, retention, reputation, and ROI aren’t going away. If a business hints at cutting donations, maybe it’s time to pivot: is your partnership a charitable gift or a marketing opportunity? IRS Publication 513 can help you draw the line. So cue the confetti, fundraisers; new year, new tax rules, and new reasons to stay connected, adaptable, and mission-driven.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with Nicholas Kristock, Executive Director of Fleece & Thank You, to talk about how storytelling isn’t just an art, it’s a survival skill for nonprofits in the age of distraction. Nicholas shares how his blanket-making nonprofit went from a heartfelt request by his twin sister into a statewide movement that delivers 30,000 personalized blankets each year to pediatric patients in Michigan. But these aren’t your grandma’s quilts; each one includes a video message from the blanket maker to the child, creating a full-circle moment of warmth, gratitude, and healing. Nicholas dives deep into the neuroscience of donor engagement and explains why breaking the script is essential if you want your message to actually make it past someone’s mental gatekeeper. Forget “Your donation helped buy 2,847 books,” we’re talking vivid, goosebump-inducing stories like a child giggling through Charlotte’s Web for the very first time. The key, he says, is connecting the gift not just to impact, but to outcomes. It’s not just about giving Miguel spaghetti, it’s about how that meal helped his mother overcome her pride and feed her family. Now that’s how you make a donor feel like a superhero. At Fleece & Thank You, personalization is baked into the DNA, not just for recipients, but for donors too. With only four full-time staff, they’ve built a tech-savvy storytelling engine that responds to donor behavior with laser precision. Whether through text, email, or an old-fashioned phone call, Nicholas emphasizes knocking on every door until you find the one your donor opens. Enter: the “Donor SWAT Outreach Team,” a genius low-cost, high-impact engagement strategy that enlists board members and volunteers to deliver heartfelt thank-you calls and share fresh weekly stories. It’s board engagement, donor retention, and warm fuzzies, all rolled into one. So what’s the result of this storytelling symphony? Fleece & Thank You has more than tripled its revenue since 2020 without significantly expanding its staff. The secret sauce: a donor journey mapped like a Plinko board, where every click, gift, and volunteer hour triggers a personalized path. Nicholas leaves us with two takeaways: build your donor SWAT team and dig deep for your true outcomes. Because sometimes, it’s not just about a blanket, it’s about giving hope to a child on the starting line of a race they never signed up for. And that, friends, is a story worth telling.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by Martin Georgi, Board Chair of the German Fundraising Association, to explore the powerful partnership between board chairs and CEOs, and how that dynamic drives better fundraising results. Martin, with a resume that spans continents and causes, shares how rebuilding trust, clarifying mission, and hiring the right CEO transformed a once-floundering organization into a thriving hub for philanthropic progress. As he puts it, “It’s not just about fundraising. It’s about changing society.” Turns out, being a great fundraiser doesn’t automatically make someone a great board member, or CEO. Martin walks us through the German Fundraising Association’s early struggles with infighting and low-impact leadership, and how a shared purpose among new board members sparked a cultural shift. At the heart of it all was alignment with the CEO. It wasn’t about agreeing on everything, but about agreeing on what matters: passion for the mission, mutual respect, and clear communication. From WhatsApp check-ins to well-prepared agendas, Martin and Association leadership show what real teamwork looks like. And the secret ingredient? Diversity of thought, age, gender, background, and experience. Martin emphasizes that strong boards aren’t built by cloning skill sets, but by curating contrasts. He also reminds us that leading isn’t barking orders, it’s asking the right questions. “Not everyone is good at everything,” he says. “Even great CEOs need support.” That’s why this collaborative model isn’t just more pleasant, it’s more effective. Regular touchpoints, transparency, and trust create the kind of culture where even the hard conversations lead to forward motion. So what does all this mean for fundraising? A well-oiled board-CEO relationship creates confidence, and confidence unlocks generosity. Martin shares how they launched new giving streams, including a fund to help young professionals attend their first conference. And yes, the board leads by example, every member contributes. Because if you want others to give, the call starts at home. With wisdom, warmth, and just the right amount of tea, Martin reminds us that whether you're in Indiana or in Berlin, good governance isn’t about power, it’s about partnership.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fundraising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by the philanthropic powerhouse himself, Gene Tempel, Ed.D., Dean Emeritus and founding father of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Together, they dive headfirst into a question that keeps many nonprofit leaders up at night: “Is this a bad time to launch a capital campaign?” The answer? Well, let’s just say it’s complicated, but not impossible. Gene reminds us that before we start counting pledges, we’ve got to answer the most basic question: What’s the compelling case for support? It’s not about shinier buildings or more vans, it's about fulfilling the mission and addressing urgent needs in society. Now, if you’re waiting for a perfect economy, spoiler alert: you’ll be waiting a long time. From the energy crisis to the Great Recession to COVID, Gene’s seen it all, and fundraisers kept fundraising. Instead of running from uncertainty, nonprofits should focus on preparation. That means digging into the test for readiness, planning like it’s a chess game (hello, “what-if” scenarios), and launching feasibility studies that give donors the mic. Because, as Gene points out, “not everyone is affected the same way” in tough times. Some donors are doing just fine and may even be more ready to give than you think. Gene takes us inside the anatomy of a capital campaign and zeroes in on the often-forgotten “middle of the gift range chart,” the fundraising Bermuda Triangle. We know our biggest donors. We love our annual givers. But what about those $2,000 donors who could be cultivated into $25,000 champions? “That’s where it breaks down,” Gene says. Building systems to engage mid-level donors isn’t just smart, it’s essential. It’s also okay to fail the readiness test, pause a campaign, or renegotiate pledge timelines. Flexibility is not a weakness. It’s leadership. Gene offers some pop-culture perspective: as Billy Joel once sang, “We didn’t start the fire,” and neither did you. History is full of crises, but capital campaigns still thrive. “If you have a compelling case, urgency, internal readiness, and donor validation,” Gene says, “then go forward.” And if things go sideways? Adjust, adapt, and keep your eyes on the mission. Because fundraising isn’t just about money, it’s about movement. And thanks to legends like Dr. Tempel, this movement’s got a playbook for every season.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by Darian Rodriguez Heyman and Cheryl Contee, MBA, co-authors of AI for Nonprofits: Putting Artificial Intelligence to Work for Your Cause, to demystify what artificial intelligence means for the social sector. Spoiler alert: it’s not a robot apocalypse, it’s an efficiency revolution. From donor research to budgeting, from strategic planning to personalized thank-you letters, AI isn’t just the future, it’s already on your desktop. As Darian puts it, AI is “the new electricity,” and when responsibly leveraged, it can energize every part of your mission. But hold on to your server, there’s some fear in the air. Cheryl addresses common anxieties head-on, including worries about job loss, high costs, or that AI will take over the planet (or at least the inbox). Her response? “Sweetie, honey, baby… AI is already here.” And you’re probably already using it: think email filters, scheduling tools, and CRMs. The goal isn’t to replace humans; it’s to give them more time to do the human stuff, like building relationships and earning trust. With countless low-cost and free tools available, Cheryl argues that AI offers a chance to double your capacity, without doubling your payroll. Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. Darian dives into the very real concerns about data privacy, accuracy, and inclusion. Whether it’s protecting donor information or acknowledging AI’s occasional habit of confidently making things up, the solution is human oversight and intentional design. He encourages nonprofits to build custom AI tools trained on their organization’s mission and voice, emphasizing that AI should always serve the people, never replace them. And while the tech is exciting, it’s not the hero of the story. The beneficiaries are. Always. So what now? Cheryl and Darian offer a roadmap for using AI to raise more money, increase impact, and reconnect with supporters. From segmenting donors to boosting grantwriting, automating admin tasks to predicting major gift readiness, AI can help you do more with less, if you’re willing to learn the tools and keep your mission front and center. Because at the end of the day, AI doesn’t understand hunger or homelessness or the power of live theater. But you do. And now, with a little robot backup, you just might have the time to answer all those emails.

In this retention-minded, myth-busting episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with Erica Dollhopf, PhD, Associate Director of Research at the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, to explore what hybrid work really means for fundraising outcomes. Spoiler alert: it's not the productivity killer some fear, it might just be a revenue booster. Dr. Dollhopf shares findings from a recent study that analyzed frontline fundraiser performance based on office attendance policies. While conventional wisdom suggests “more time in the office = better results,” the data tell a different story. More required office time did increase donor contacts, but for key metrics like solicitations, closes, and dollars raised, fewer in-office days and more experience proved to be the winning combo. The implications are clear: rigid attendance policies may be outdated, especially in a profession where 75% of the workforce identifies as women, and hybrid flexibility is now a make-or-break factor in retention. With longevity at an institution showing a direct link to fundraising results, allowing autonomy isn’t just a benefit, it’s a strategy for maximizing giving. So what now? Dr. Dollhopf encourages fundraisers to use these findings to advocate for flexibility and support. For organizational leaders, the takeaways are actionable: invest in tech, nurture mentorship in hybrid settings, and be intentional about building culture, even if it’s over Zoom. Because when fundraisers are trusted, supported, and retained, giving goes up.

In this donor-focused, data-packed episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by Jon Bergdoll, Interim Director of Data and Research Partnerships at Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, to break down the latest findings from the 2023 Bank of America Study of High Net-Worth Philanthropy. Now in its 20th year, the report offers a close-up on the giving habits of households with $1M+ in investable assets or incomes over $200,000. The numbers tell a nuanced story. While total dollars donated by high-net-worth households remain strong, the percentage of those households giving annually is slipping, a continuation of the “donors down, dollars up” trend seen in the broader population. Volunteering, meanwhile, is bouncing back post-pandemic, now at 43% (up from a 2020 low of 30%) but still below pre-2020 levels. These donors continue to prioritize religion, education, and human services, and they’re increasingly aligning their financial choices, spending and giving alike, with their values. Local impact matters. Over 70% of high-net-worth donors report giving to causes in their own communities, compared to 32% giving nationally and just 13% internationally. Spontaneity still plays a role, roughly 85% of donors say they sometimes or always give when asked or in response to emerging needs, but effectiveness is key. Donors want to know their gifts are making a difference. Use of giving vehicles like donor-advised funds, private foundations, and IRA distributions is slowly rising, with nearly 1 in 5 affluent households now leveraging at least one structured giving mechanism. This year’s report also introduces five philanthropic identities: Steadfast Supporters, Devout Donors, Entrepreneurs, Changemakers, and Philanthropic Experts. These profiles offer fundraisers a practical way to understand donor motivations and tailor outreach accordingly.

In this data-rich, globally-minded episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by researchers Dana Doan, PhD and Afshan Paarlberg, JD to explore the newly released Global Philanthropy Environment Index (GPEI). With contributions from over 170 experts across 95 countries, the GPEI paints a detailed picture of the philanthropic landscape in 15 regions worldwide. Whether you're fundraising in Frankfurt or building a donor base in Barbados, the GPEI offers insight into how policies, tax incentives, socio-cultural dynamics, and cross-border regulations impact your ability to raise funds, and why local context is everything. The GPEI isn’t just a static report, it’s a dynamic toolkit. Dana and Afshan emphasize that the Index is designed to support both policy and practice. It measures six key factors, including the ease of operating a nonprofit, tax incentives for donors, cross-border flows of philanthropy, and the socio-political environment. Want to know what makes it hard to fundraise in one country and easier in another? The GPEI breaks it down, region by region, and even offers expert recommendations for improvement. As Dana puts it, it’s not just about understanding your own environment, it’s about being inspired by what’s working elsewhere. Globally, the report reveals two major trends. First, the good news: cultural and social support for giving remains strong across nearly every region. Generosity is alive and well. The not-so-good news? Cross-border philanthropic flows are tightening, in part due to anti-money laundering regulations and concerns about foreign influence. Meanwhile, tax incentive structures vary wildly, even among neighboring countries, leading to uneven conditions for charitable giving. The report also dives into lasting post-COVID trends and rising priorities like climate philanthropy, offering a timely lens into what’s next for fundraisers and policymakers alike. And it’s not just theory, it’s practice. From new platforms in Africa and Asia to transnational giving initiatives in Europe, the GPEI is already shaping action on the ground. Fundraisers across the globe are using it to make the case for improved infrastructure, smarter regulations, and stronger domestic giving. As Afshan shares, the Index is built on local expertise to ensure every score has context and credibility. Whether you're navigating political shifts or trying to unlock new donor channels, this episode delivers the tools, and the global perspective, to help philanthropy thrive wherever you call home.

In this research-powered, globe-spanning episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. welcomes Craig Furneaux, PhD to unpack the how, why, and how-much of building a reserve fund for nonprofit organizations. With his classic Aussie warmth and academic rigor, Craig takes us behind the scenes of nonprofit finance in Australia, where the accounting system doesn’t distinguish between sectors and the idea of building a reserve fund gets complicated fast. It’s not just about stacking cash, too much in the bank can actually hurt your fundraising case. And if you’re not careful, you could end up with the regulatory equivalent of a boomerang to the head. Dr. Furneaux and his co-author Dr. Renee Irwin went full Sherlock Holmes on this topic, digging into five years of nonprofit income data across multiple sectors and sizes. The result? A treasure trove of insights and a fresh take on the old “three-month rule” for reserves. Spoiler alert: three months might work for medium-sized organizations, but smaller ones? You’re gonna need more, closer to six months, to weather the storm. Large organizations can squeak by with less, thanks to their flexibility and larger safety nets. The key word here? Resiliency. Whether it’s currency drops, funding cuts, or another round of HR legislation chaos, reserve funds are the emergency kit every nonprofit needs before the next metaphorical (or literal) hurricane hits. But it’s not just about the math, it’s about the message. Communicating the need for reserves to donors requires storytelling finesse. Craig suggests analogies that hit home, like prepping for a natural disaster. "We’re not hoarding, we’re being prudent stewards," he explains. The goal? Helping donors understand that a healthy reserve isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifeline. That means it’s up to you, fundraiser friend, to show them why some unspent dollars today could be the reason your doors stay open tomorrow. So how much is just right? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but this episode gives you the tools, and the evidence, to figure it out. Whether you're running a tiny arts nonprofit or a sprawling health system, the research can help you build a solid case for reserves. Start small, aim high, and remember: it's not about fear, it's about foresight. As always, The Fund Raising School is here to equip you with knowledge, strategy, and just the right amount of inspiration (and maybe a little financial jargon translated into plain English). Because resilience isn’t just a buzzword, it’s your mission’s best friend in a crisis.

In this insightful and timely episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes back Jacqueline Ackerman, Interim Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI), to explore how women navigate charitable giving during times of economic and societal uncertainty. From pandemics to recessions, Jacqueline dives into the resilient giving habits of women donors, and spoiler alert, they don’t just keep giving, they double down when the going gets tough. Based on findings from WPI’s “Women Give 2024” study, Jacqueline highlights how women’s generosity remained remarkably steady across two decades, even as crises came and went. Jacqueline serves up a generous helping of data with a side of real-world implications: women are more likely to give, give more, and spread that generosity across causes; even if it means getting less recognition. But COVID-19, aka “the she-cession,” threw a curveball. While many women were forced to pause their giving due to caregiving and job losses, those who stayed in the donor pool gave more, a testament to their commitment and empathy. And as we emerge into the “new normal,” WPI expects women’s philanthropy to rebound in full force, fueled by loyalty, community care, and an eye on the impact, not the tax deduction. And speaking of taxes, don’t expect them to be a huge motivator here. While male donors may be charmed by a universal charitable deduction, women are looking at who benefits from their gift. Jacqueline reminds fundraisers: if you want to speak to women donors, tell stories about the people they’re helping, not just the perks they're getting. It’s not about the name on the wall, it’s about the family at the food bank. Women give from the heart, not the ledger. And when they care about your mission? They’re not just writing checks, they’re joining boards, bringing their friends, and becoming powerful long-term allies. The episode closes with an important reminder: women give relationally, not transactionally. Whether it's through giving circles, peer-to-peer appeals, or disaster response efforts, women rally around each other and their communities. But as much as the data can guide fundraising strategy, Jacqueline leaves us with a crucial caveat, don’t mistake trends for rules. Every donor is an individual with their own motivations. The research offers a strong starting point, but the magic still happens in the one-on-one conversation.

In this lively and eye-opening episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by Rachel Gerrol, founder and CEO of NEXUS Global, and her COO Liza Heavener, to pull back the curtain on the philanthropic habits of Gen Z and millennials. NEXUS Global isn’t just another networking group, it’s a global movement with 6,000 members across 70 countries representing $650 billion in family wealth. What started in a modest UN conference room has become a peer-led, agenda-free space where the next generation of high-impact givers connect, collaborate, and catalyze change. As Rachel puts it, they didn’t plan a movement, but “accidentally birthed” one. Bill dives into the critical takeaway: fundraisers can't afford to keep thinking of millennials as college kids in shared apartments. They're homeowners, parents, and yes, major donors. But here’s the kicker, these next gen donors don’t wait for titles or trust funds to make a difference. Their influence in family philanthropy is real and potent. One heartfelt suggestion from a grandkid can steer six-figure giving. Rachel and Liza emphasize that ignoring these influencers just because their name isn’t on the board is like leaving money, and meaningful connection, on the table. But don’t come at them with your checkbook hand outstretched. Liza and Rachel stress that authenticity and values-alignment are the name of the game. These donors crave genuine relationships, not transactional asks. They want to do philanthropy, rolling up their sleeves at volunteer events, engaging in learning journeys, and sitting at intimate salon dinners, not black-tie galas. And please, ditch the glossy mailers, they’ll hold up that $10 invitation and wonder why you're wasting donor dollars. The advice is golden: ask for advice, and you might get a gift. Ask for a gift right away? You might never hear from them again. The episode wraps with a call to action: nonprofits must evolve not just in how they ask, but in how they operate. Today’s donors look at everything through a values lens, from where you host your gala to how you bottle your water. And forget traditional silos, Gen Z and millennials blur the lines between philanthropy, investing, and entrepreneurship. They’re collaborative, global, and impatient. They want results, impact, and purpose, not pomp and circumstance. So fundraisers, ready or not, the future is here... and it’s bringing a values-based, story-driven, influence-wielding donor with it.

In this episode of The First Day from The Fundraising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes Abhishek Bhati, Ph.D., Associate Professor at Bowling Green State University, to dive deep into the ever-buzzing world of social media fundraising. Spoiler alert, it’s not just about asking for money. Drawing on fresh research, Dr. Bhati reveals that nonprofits who blend a variety of six message types (instead of hammering the “donate now” button nonstop) can boost their fundraising results by a whopping 96%. That’s nearly doubling your impact just by mixing up your posts. So, what are these six magical message types? Beneficiary stories, mission-focused content, engagement asks, expressions of gratitude, goal attainment updates, and fundraising ask. While asking remains the most frequent (and necessary) message, Dr. Bhati’s research shows that over-reliance on it can lead to donor fatigue faster than you can say “algorithm change.” It turns out donors want to feel part of a story, not just a transaction. The conversation gets even juicier when Bill and Dr. Bhati dig into the science behind why these message types matter. Want more donations? Try publicly thanking donors (which can lift giving by 59%). Need to hit that campaign goal? Posts showing you’re just $50 short create FOMO that can spike donations by 79%. It’s all about creating that “whirlpool effect” of engagement, where your message spreads further and deeper. They wrap with practical tips for fundraisers of all organizational sizes. Don’t have a massive marketing team? No problem. Start by planning posts ahead, use scheduling tools, and lean on your board, volunteers, and existing supporters to build your social media presence. Because as Dr. Bhati reminds us, social media fundraising isn’t a magic bullet, it’s a strategic dance. And when you choreograph your messages well, donors don’t just listen, they leap in.