The P2P Soapbox

Those of us deeply entrenched in the world of peer-to-peer fundraising have long recognized that one of the greatest strengths of our events and campaigns lies within the sense of community and shared experiences we create for our supporters. However, in an increasingly data-driven environment, quantifying the return on investment (ROI) for cultivating these relationships and creating impactful mission moments can be challenging. By examining the impact of P2P participation on a donor's lifetime value, we can begin to truly understand the long-term significance of our efforts and therefore make the case for even greater investment. By speaking a common language, we can break down the silos between peer-to-peer and individual giving teams and open our organizations up to even greater opportunity.In the episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell sits down with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Kevin McMahon & Jon Thompson.   This dynamic team will dig into how looking at peer-to-peer fundraisers through the lens of lifetime value has shifted their overall philosophy and strategies behind their signature P2P events.  In this episode, we’ll also explore:How this fresh approach to data has changed their staffing, goals and budgetsThe tangible & intangible value of communityThe importance of humility in cross-functional partnershipsMentioned LinksChildren’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with KevinConnect with JonConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:50) - Introducing Kevin McMahon and Jon Thompson (06:02) - P2P at CHOP (08:17) - Lifetime Value (17:01) - The State of the Industry (30:23) - The Future (34:49) - Getting Started with Lifetime Value (40:01) - Learn more and get involved!

Being a leader in the peer-to-peer world can feel like a whirlwind of demands. Stay relevant. Innovate. Stick to the fundamentals. Explore new revenue streams. Prioritize effectively. Cultivate meaningful relationships. It’s a lot to juggle and can leave even the most seasoned leader feeling a bit dizzy.In the midst of this whirlwind, it’s crucial not to lose sight of our "why" - the reason we embarked on a career in the nonprofit sector in the first place and also why we  joined our respective organizations.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Kim Slone, Executive Vice President for Development and Community Health of the American Heart Association, which was recently recognized as the 2024 Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum Organization Of The Year .  They delve into how this century-old organization remains relevant to today's volunteers and supporters, the importance of building relationships with internal colleagues & volunteers, and how all of this can be accomplished by staying true to your “why”.In this episode, we’ll also explore:Messaging strategies to engage a new generation of fundraisersThe delicate balance between revenue diversification and strategic focusThe importance of understanding your community’s motivationMentioned LinksAmerican Heart AssociationHeart WalkKids Heart ChallengeStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with KimConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:01) - Introducing Kim Slone (06:16) - How does the American Heart Association use P2P? (08:29) - Staying Relevant over 100 Years (16:34) - The Importance of Relationships (20:34) - Growing from Where You Are (24:36) - Get Involved

In the world of peer-to-peer fundraising, endurance events present a distinct set of challenges and opportunities. These events typically entail a much longer engagement window, offering both the chance to cultivate enduring relationships with participants and the hurdle of sustaining their involvement over an extended period of time.For many participants, the commitment required—both physically and in fundraising—can be daunting, especially for first-timers. As nonprofits, it's easy to focus our communication solely on fundraising goals and our mission, but in doing so, we may overlook a crucial aspect: supporting the individual athlete in their personal journey.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by World Vision USA’s Lyndsey Deane Ratchford. They delve into the significance of crafting a fundraiser communication journey that revolves around the needs and motivations of their runners and discuss how these overarching concepts can translate into a comprehensive multi-channel messaging strategy.In this episode, we’ll also explore:- The value of creating custom messaging strategies for different demographic audiences- The power of vulnerability & empathy in peer-to-peer relationships- How to help your team prioritize participant-centric communicationMentioned LinksTeam World VisionWorld Vision USAWorld Vision InternationalStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with LyndseyConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (02:18) - Introducing Lindsey Deane Ratchford (10:23) - About Team World Vision (14:56) - A Focus on Messaging (35:44) - Learn More

It seems obvious that peer-to-peer fundraising events would be designed with the organization's missions in mind. However, amidst the critical logistics decisions, competing messaging priorities and the influence of multiple stakeholders, prioritizing a mission-centric approach can inadvertently take a back seat.In this episode, Cure SMA’s Jesse Aynes & Kyle Houlihan join P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell for a conversation on the importance of leading with a mission-first strategy. Kyle & Jesse will share how their team is expanding the Walk-n-Roll community by engaging direct mission providers and tell the story of how they launched a new on-site mission experience - and what they learned from it.In this episode, we’ll also explore:- The importance of a consistent branding & mission experience - and the distinction between the two- How their program is evolving to meet the needs and share the stories of the SMA community- The full-circle impact of the Walk-n-Roll program on Cure SMA’s missionMentioned LinksCure SMACure SMA Walk-n-RollOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube & Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with JesseConnect with KyleConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (03:34) - Introducing Jesse & Kyle (07:25) - About SMA (10:40) - Igniting the community around the mission (17:58) - The Care Center Network (32:33) - Facing Better Problems (37:35) - Learn More

At its core, peer-to-peer fundraising is built on relationship-building and community - it’s all about the people. And at the same time, the most successful fundraising campaigns are equally driven by the numbers.With hundreds of events, thousands of participants and an extensive supporter base, even minor adjustments can have an exponential impact, meaning it is critical to understand your key performance indicators and build intentional strategies to both maintain and grow each one.In the episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Mary Sorensen & Morgan Sills of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).  Mary & Morgan will delve into how their team is drilling down into their data from the national program level to individual markets and even to individual teams and fundraisers to find their greatest areas of opportunity for NAMIWalks.In this episode, we’ll also explore:- How small changes can lead to exponential growth- Using data to gain strategy buy-in- How to customize communications based on dataMentioned LinksNAMINAMIWalksOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with MaryConnect with MorganConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum

At the 2024 Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum conference in Philadephia, we unveiled the P2P Fundraising Top 30 programs for both the U.S. and Canada. This study compiled data from  134 programs, making it the largest P2P study ever. In this special solo episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell digs into the newly unveiled 2023 Top 30, highlighting top success stories, key benchmarks, and trends to watch for 2024.Mentioned LinksU.S. P2P Top 30 StudyCanadian P2P Top 30 StudyStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (00:44) - The Peer 2 Peer Fundraising and Benchmark Report

In the realm of peer-to-peer fundraising, DIY campaigns often receive less attention and investment compared to more traditional programs. The term "Do It Yourself" fundraising may suggest a hands-off approach to organizers.However, this misconception overlooks a significant opportunity. Frequently, individuals who initiate their own fundraising events exhibit even greater passion and personal investment in our cause compared to participants in traditional walks, runs, and rides.The most successful DIY programs in our field recognize the true value these fundraisers bring and prioritize building relationships and providing support to ensure their success.In this episode, Marcie Maxwell of P2P Fundraising is joined by Becky Mitts, Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Development at Ovarian Cancer Canada. Becky shares her team's journey in understanding their DIY landscape, identifying opportunities and advocating for the prioritization of DIY within the organization. They delve into the challenges and outdated perspectives that often hinder organizations from developing a strategic DIY fundraising approach.In this episode, we’ll also explore:Tips for overcoming technology challenges in DIY programsHow DIY and traditional P2P programs can co-exist and complement each otherHow third-party fundraisers can serve as a testing ground for your organizationMentioned LinksOvarian Cancer CanadaOn Social: Instagram, YouTube &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with BeckyConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:46) - Introducing Becky Mitts (06:02) - Overhauling DIY (11:18) - Fundraising Lessons Learned (21:04) - Program Cross-over (23:26) - New to DIY? Here's what you need to know.

One of the most common refrains that echoes through the world of peer-to-peer fundraising is that our friends in Marketing just don’t understand the world of Development.  (And it’s pretty easy to assume that the sentiment cuts both ways.)However, with the evolving landscape of revenue goals, shifting supporter expectations and advancements in technology, this challenge presents a huge opportunity. Just imagine how P2P programs can grow if we could truly seamlessly blend the great expertise that both teams bring to the table.In the episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell sits down with the National MS Society’s Marisa Hull and Peter Fryer.   This dynamic Marketing & Development duo will share how their teams have collaborated to refine the Bike MS constituent journey and how they have built a solid cross-functional partnership along the way.In this episode, we’ll also explore:How to build trust between Marketing &  Development teamsThe idea of turning your P2P program into a lifestyle brandThe power of vulnerability & humility in cross-functional partnershipsMentioned LinksNational MS SocietyBike MSOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with MarisaConnect with PeterConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (03:56) - Introducing Marisa Hull and Peter Fryer (08:59) - Marketing & Develompent at the Table Together (24:54) - The Lifestyle Brand (28:10) - Unlocking Best Practices for Great Relationships Between Teams (38:06) - Learn More

As professional fundraisers, we often find ourselves playing the role of the “proud beggar”, grateful for every donation we receive, no matter the size. While that is a worthy and admirable approach, it can do a disservice to our participants and to the missions we champion.Our peer-to-peer participants aren’t just signing up to walk or ride or run - they are signing up to raise funds in support of a cause close to their hearts.  Our responsibility is to understand their goals, empower them with the effective strategies and inspiration to achieve them and challenge them to go even further.In the Season 2 premiere, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Jarrett Collins, CEO of the Pan-Mass Challenge(PMC).  Together, we’ll discuss how the PMC has grown its bike-a-thon over the past 45 years into a program that today raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the world.  Jarrett will share how his team fosters a true culture of philanthropy among its riders and how they continuously motivate them to achieve higher fundraising levels.In this episode, we’ll also explore:How the PMC is leveraging a major fundraising milestone to drive support in 2024The average lifecycle of a PMC rider - and how they keep them coming back every yearThe power of recognition Mentioned LinksPan-Mass ChallengeOn Social: Facebook, Instagram &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with JarrettConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum

Seasoned P2P fundraisers, especially those working in the world of in-person events, recognize the tremendous significance of a highly engaged and goal-oriented volunteer committee. These dedicated individuals play a pivotal role in recruiting our teams, fostering connections with sponsors, and assisting in the seamless execution of event day logistics.However, when it comes to digital-first P2P fundraising campaigns, the idea of empowering volunteer leadership is often overlooked. Many organizations tend to view these fundraisers as independent, do-it-yourself (DIY) initiatives, with limited connection among them.So what would happen if we applied our best practices for working with local volunteer leaders to our digital-first campaigns? Local ambassadors can not only extend the campaign's reach but also enhance its authenticity, foster a sense of community and strengthen the overall impact.On our Season 1 finale, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell sits down with Brittany Veneris, US Director of Fundraising for Movember, one of the peer-to-peer industry’s most unique fundraisers.  Together, we’ll discuss how Movember has built a global network of community ambassadors to drive its annual peer-to-peer fundraising campaign.  Brittany shares how the simple idea of a mustache-growing contest has grown into a global men's health movement, raising more than $1B in the past 20 years.In today’s episode, we’ll also explore:How Movember strikes a balance between its fun marketing person with its serious missionSetting goals and expectations with volunteer fundraisersUnique messaging strategies to engage male fundraisers Mentioned LinksMovemberOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with BrittanyConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (04:14) - It's Movember! (10:43) - Balancing Fun with Serious Issues (12:02) - Building Off the Digital Community (21:28) - Gender in P2P Fundraising (27:52) - Pandemic Lessons (31:22) - Learn More

Do you ever find that your relationships with your peer-to-peer fundraisers seem to be a one-way street? As dedicated P2P professionals, we invest substantial effort in crafting the perfect email messages, texts, and social media posts to motivate our fundraisers to take action. But how often do we take the time to truly understand why they are passionate about fundraising in the first place?In a world where answering calls from unknown numbers is increasingly unlikely, it's essential that we explore innovative ways to connect with our supporters and put in the necessary time to foster genuine connections. In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell sits down with Make-A-Wish Alabama’s Vice President of Advancement, Valerie Cunningham-Trainer,  and Make-A-Wish America’s Chapter Events Fundraising Manager, Katie Woods.  Katie and Valerie share a passion for one of Make-A-Wish’s signature P2P programs, the Trailblaze Challenge - a single-day 20+ mile endurance hiking event - and the community it has helped them build for their local chapters. Together, we delve into how they leverage the comprehensive training program and year-round community events to establish profound, authentic relationships with their fundraisers. In today’s episode, we’ll explore:How Make-A-Wish is connecting their fundraisers to their missionStrategies to turn a small group of event participants into a large year-round communityWays to spot future champions & leaders among P2P fundraisersMentioned LinksMake-A-Wish AmericaOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube &Twitter/XMake-A-Wish AlabamaOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube &Twitter/XTrailblaze ChallengeStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with KatieConnect with ValerieConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:22) - Introducing Katie Wood & Valerie Cunningham-Trainer (03:58) - The Personal & Professional Journey (06:42) - The Trailblaze Program (09:18) - Training (17:32) - Connecting Fundraising to Mission (21:22) - Growing Community out of Small Events (39:12) - Learn More

It can often feel like all peer-to-peer fundraising professionals are cut from the same cloth—hardworking, goal-oriented, outgoing and passionate about making a positive impact on the world. However, the truth is that our industry boasts a diverse array of individuals with distinct backgrounds, strengths and connections to our missions.P2P fundraising undeniably thrives on community. The most successful programs in this field prioritize relationship-building and meaningful connections, meaning it’s critical for P2P professionals to bring their authentic selves, unique skill sets and personal experiences to the forefront.The most effective P2P leaders are those who recognize the value of these diverse experiences and harness the individual strengths of each team member to contribute to the larger collective. In doing so, they create a harmonious and empowered environment that drives the industry - and our missions - forward.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell sits down with Joe Apgar, President of Pelotonia, one of the nation’s largest cycling events, which benefits The Ohio State University – The James Cancer Hospital. Joe shares his personal story as a cancer survivor, a cancer sibling and a Pelotonia participant, his professional journey in finance, and how those unique experiences prepared him for a leadership role at Pelotonia and continue to shape his work with participants and his team. In today’s episode, we’ll explore:How Pelotonia weathered the pandemic and came back strongerHow to fail quickly - and learn from itWays to cultivate and retain great talentMentioned LinksPelotoniaOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with JoeConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:28) - Introducing Joe Apgar (10:02) - The Lived Journey To Fundraising (19:14) - Navigating 2020 (24:52) - Fundraising on Rocks! (28:14) - Lessons Learned (33:04) - Cultivating Talent (40:26) - Learn More

In 2023, leading nonprofit organizations are undertaking the essential and challenging task of scrutinizing their operational strategies through the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) lens. Big questions remain, particularly regarding racial equity and its intersection with the missions we champion, the positions we advocate, the donors we prioritize, and even the composition of our workforce.And our small world of peer-to-peer fundraising is no different. Our peer-to-peer fundraising events present a unique opportunity to translate these principles into action - in our capacity to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds around a common cause, in the role our events play as a mirror reflecting the broader community we serve, and in our commitment to dismantling barriers that might hinder potential supporters from connecting with our mission.In this episode, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s Chief Development Officer, Deb Barge, joins P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell for an important conversation about the critical need to prioritize the principles of JEDI in peer-to-peer fundraising work. Marcie and Deb discuss real-world examples of how leading organizations are bringing JEDI principles to life with their P2P events, as well as the role that staff and volunteers can play in creating an inclusive environment.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:The longstanding roots of JEDI in P2P eventsThe importance of a diverse workforce The power of mission-connected volunteersMentioned LinksBig Brothers Big Sisters of AmericaBeABigNow.OrgOn Social: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube &Twitter/XStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with DebConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:32) - Introducing Deborah Barge (03:22) - The Journey to Big Brothers Big Sisters (09:32) - JEDI (16:33) - MDA (21:02) - Engaging Staff Diversity (28:26) - Peer to Peer at Big Brothers Big Sisters (37:06) - Learn how to be an Aunt Marcie Yourself!

At many nonprofit organizations, peer-to-peer fundraising programs and corporate partnerships live on separate teams with different goals and often competing priorities.  However, there is a clear connection between the two. Not only can a peer-to-peer fundraising program serve as an entry point for a new corporate partner, it can also be a great way to deepen relationships with existing corporate partners through employee engagement. In the same vein, adding a cause marketing campaign can amplify a peer-to-peer program sponsor’s impact on our missions.At their core, both peer-to-peer and corporate fundraising campaigns empower supporters to ask for donations on the behalf of the organization - and when you leverage the two initiatives in tandem, that’s when a true win-win-win partnership can be created for all teams involved.In this episode, the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum’s Marcie Maxwell and Engage For Good’s Alli Murphy are joined by Robyn Raphael, Director of Corporate Partnerships for St. Baldrick’s Foundation and Amanda Palm, Director of Communications & Partnerships at Sport Clips. The group discusses how St. Baldrick’s signature peer-to-peer head-shaving events - a consistent member of the P2P US Top 30 - led to a natural partnership between the childhood cancer charity and the sports-themed hair care franchise and its stylists. Robyn and Amanda will share their secrets to building a strong working relationship and how they work together to grow both of their businesses.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:How peer-to-peer fundraising can serve as a platform for employee engagementWhat it takes to create & sustain a mutually beneficial partnershipThe importance of listening and trust in a nonprofit-corporate partnershipMentioned LinksSt. Baldrick’s Foundation@stbaldricks on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & ThreadsSport Clips@sportclipshaircuts - Facebook, Instagram & TikTokStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with RobynConnect with AmandaConnect with MarcieConnect with AlliConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional ForumConnect with Engage For Good (00:00) - Welcome to the P2P Soapbox (01:00) - Worlds Collide! Corporate Social Impact + P2P (02:28) - Introdicing Amanda Palm and Robynand Kent (07:34) - Shaving for Purpose (11:16) - The Right Fit Partner (15:48) - Sustaining through the Pandemic (20:24) - The Partnership Grows (22:57) - Questions of Labor and Retention (31:38) - Trust & Tips (38:44) - Learn More

In recent years, customer expectations have rapidly evolved. We've shifted from traditional grocery shopping to curbside pick-up, in-person doctor's visits to telehealth appointments, and gym memberships to home fitness setups.  What we wanted as customers just a few years ago is not what we want now.The same can be said for our P2P participants - our “customers.” What they needed and expected from our P2P programs isn’t the same anymore. So where do we go from here?The first and most critical step is taking the time to listen and understand how ​​their needs, preferences, and pain points have changed - and bring them in to the evolutionary process.  Consistent customer engagement will not only nurture trust and long-lasting connections, but also fuel innovation, ensuring your relevance in a dynamic market.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Mike Kinney, VP of Program Strategy & Community Experience at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Mike and Marcie discuss CMN Hospital’s two signature peer-to-peer programs, Miracle Network Dance Marathon and Extra Life - both members of the 2022 US Top 30 - and how they prioritize deep relationship building and continuous active listening to stay on top of rising trends. They also dig into the mysteries of Gen Z, the next generation of fundraisers and donors.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:The idea of “customer intimacy”The importance of understanding generational & geographical differencesHow listening to your audience can drive innovationMentioned LinksChildren’s Miracle Network HospitalsMiracel Network Dance MarathonExtra LifeStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with MikeConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (02:57) - Introducing Mike Kinney (06:24) - Customer Intimacy (10:00) - Staying on top of core audience trends (14:06) - The Central Programs (29:12) - Learn More

I love to ask people, “What’s the best event you’ve ever attended? And why?”Was it your best friend’s wedding because you knew everyone there?  Was it a baby shower because everyone was there for the same reason - to help the new parents prepare for their next chapter? Was it an amazing concert because the community had taken on a life of its own with costumes and bracelets and dancing? Most often, a person’s favorite event boils down to its community - a group of like-minded people coming together to celebrate or accomplish or support a common cause. Without a focus on building an authentic and inclusive community, our walks and runs and rides risk blending together and losing their distinctiveness.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Tracy Evans, Race Director of AIDS/LifeCycle, a fully-supported, seven-day bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles, raising money for both the Los Angeles LGBT Center and San Francisco AIDS Foundation. AIDS/LifeCycle was recognized as the 2023 Program of the Year at the last Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum conference.Tracy shares insights into how they have cultivated one of the industry's largest event personalities. We’ll discover the behind-the-scenes efforts that make their cyclist community thrive not only during the event itself, but also throughout the year. Tracy also discusses intentional steps taken by AIDS/LifeCycle to foster inclusivity and the positive results they have achieved.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:Finding and cultivating your event’s voiceTactics for creating a truly inclusive eventThe power of authentic communication in strengthening both participant and team communitiesMentioned LinksAIDS/LifeCycleAIDS Life/Cycle - YouTubeStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with TracyConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (02:06) - Introducing Tracy Evans (09:45) - Building an Event with Personality (19:13) - Inclusivity (34:33) - Leading a Complex Moving Fundraiser (40:16) - Preparation through Danger (44:19) - Learn More!

There is no one-size-fits-all formula for peer-to-peer fundraising events. The most successful programs excel in different ways, some by engaging corporate teams, others by involving family and community teams. While some programs consist of numerous smaller events, others focus on a select number of large-scale events. The revenue sources also vary, with some programs heavily reliant on sponsorships and others predominantly driven by peer-to-peer fundraising.Rather than relying on a single strategy, top-performing programs leverage various approaches to find success. Top fundraising programs are always seeking opportunities for small-scale enhancements that, when combined, can lead to exponential growth. In this episode, join Marcie Maxwell from P2PPF as she sits down with Jana Bearden, the Vice President for Campaign Development, Community Initiatives at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). They will dig into the secrets behind Light The Night's remarkable revenue rebound post-pandemic and discuss how incremental changes are generating significant results.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:Strategies employed by LLS to gain buy-in from staff and volunteers.The significance of prioritizing goal planning in addition to goal setting.Techniques used by LLS to foster a "plus-up" mentality among their staff.Mentioned LinksThe Leukemia & Lymphoma SocietyLight The NightThe Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - InstagramStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with JanaConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:42) - Introducing Jana Bearden (07:10) - The Rebound (11:52) - Digging Into the Lanterns (14:36) - Motivating Toward Growth (21:36) - Break-out Markets (25:32) - What's Up Next? (33:02) - Get Involved!

Not too long ago, peer-to-peer fundraisers relied on letter-writing, phone calls, and pledge envelopes to raise money for their favorite causes. Now, we we have email, countless social media channels and mobile apps literally at our fingertips, making it even easier to fundraise. In theory, right?However, the latest technology alone isn't enough for successful peer-to-peer fundraising.  The most valuable resource for a peer-to-peer fundraiser is a great staff partner who guides them towards achieving their goals and making a real impact for the causes they love. But the shift to a remote working environment and turnover in many front-line fundraiser roles, the importance of our staff’s role as fundraising coach has been lost.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Deanna van Lear, the National Kidney Foundation’s Kidney WalkNational Director.  The duo swap stories about the early 2000s, highlighting the differences and similarities between peer-to-peer fundraising then and now. They also discuss the essential need for professional fundraisers to adapt to the ever-changing landscape.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:How NKF is retraining its local field staff and volunteers to fundraiseThe importance of coaching participants to achieve their goalsHow to come out from behind the crutch of digital communication and get back to in-person conversationsSystems that NKF is putting in place to help local staff achieve their goalsMentioned LinksNational Kidney FoundationKidney WalkTake a Minute For Your KidneysStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with DeannaConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:20) - Introducing Deanna van Lear (04:06) - About Deanna (06:43) - Evolving Peer-to-Peer (14:30) - Re-learning Fundraising in 2023 (24:22) - Learning to Listen to the Data (31:03) - Learn More

Have you ever stopped to question if your fundraising messaging is ethical? Despite our best intentions as professional fundraisers, it is crucial for us to recognize that certain traditional fundraising methods no longer hold up under scrutiny in 2023. In our efforts to showcase the serious need for donations with often sad, evocative imagery, we run the risk of contributing to a negative stereotype or, even worse, retraumatizing those we are trying to help. Or we paint a picture of perfect success stories, only to discount the very real challenges our organizations are trying to solve.  While facing financial targets, it can indeed be tempting to prioritize the preferences and desires of donors. However, it is crucial for us to pause and reflect on whether such prioritization is being done at the expense of our mission and the well-being of our community.In this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell sits down with Covenant House International’s Associate Vice President of Site Development, Meghan Coan, and Associate Vice President of Peer-to-Peer Fundraising.  Meghan and Colleen share a passion for ethical storytelling, which informs their work with their signature Sleep Out program. We sat down with them to discuss pivotal moments that triggered transformative change within their team and how they are reevaluating messaging and event experiences to ensure alignment with their mission of providing housing for youth facing homelessness.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:How Covenant House is continuously evaluating and evolving its fundraising events to ensure mission alignmentHow they are reframing their messaging and responding to feedback from supportersThe importance of respecting personal boundaries in storytellingMentioned LinksCovenant House InternationalSleep OutStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with MeghanConnect with ColleenConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:23) - Introducing Colleen Veldt and Meghan Coan (07:04) - Sleep Out at Covenant House (11:10) - Evaluating Ethics & Mission (23:15) - Ethical Storytelling (27:24) - The Public Response (31:30) - Learn More

In 2014, every professional fundraiser was asked the same question - “What’s the next Ice Bucket Challenge?”  In the short term, this remarkably successful and straightforward viral campaign, which benefitted The ALS Association, sparked a surge of poorly conceived and unsustainable copycat campaigns, but in the long term, forced the industry into a state of evolution. Innovation has consistently remained one of the hottest buzzwords in our industry, as we seek out "the next million-dollar idea."  In an rapidly evolving world where technology and donor expectations are constantly shifting, and resources are limited in terms of staffing and donor dollars, staying ahead becomes increasingly challenging without a dedicated innovation teamIn this episode, P2PPF’s Marcie Maxwell is joined by Carla Warner, Senior Director of Revenue Innovation  at Share Our Strength, the nonprofit behind the No Kid Hungry campaign.  They’ll dig into the secrets and success stories of Carla’s dedicated revenue innovation team, from incubation to operationalization, and why peer-to-peer fundraising has been the main driver behind their new initiatives.In today’s episode, we’ll explore:How Carla’s team made the case for a dedicated Revenue Innovation teamThe significance of identifying trendsHow peer-to-peer fundraising can open the door to new audiences & new marketsThe importance of flexibility in trying new strategiesHow the pandemic has changed the Share Our Strength’s approach to innovationMentioned LinksShare Our StrengthNo Kid HungryNo Kid Hungry - InstagramNo Kid Hungry - FacebookNo Kid Hungry - TwitterStay Connected on LinkedInConnect with CarlaConnect with MarcieConnect with the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum (00:00) - Welcome to The P2P Soap Box (01:26) - Introducing Carla Warner (07:11) - About Share Our Strength (14:59) - The Innovation Shop (23:52) - Connecting With Your Communities (27:04) - Leveraging Peer-to-Peer (30:10) - Innovating Innovation through the Pandemic