Fit Fundraising

In Part 2 of How CEOs Recruit and Retain Great Fundraisers, Roy Jones continues the conversation with Pam Axberg, CEO of Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities. Drawing on her experience leading both major corporations and a mission-driven nonprofit, Pam shares how executive leaders should think about recruiting, developing, and retaining fundraising talent. This discussion moves beyond résumés and job descriptions to focus on leadership philosophy, culture alignment, and the structural decisions that determine whether development teams succeed or struggle. For nonprofit CEOs, executive directors, and development leaders, the conversation offers practical insight into how strong organizations build fundraising teams that actually produce results.

In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with Pam Axberg, CEO of Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities, to unpack how high-impact nonprofit leaders recruit, hire, and retain exceptional fundraisers. Leading an organization that raises over $20 million annually, Pam shares how mission alignment, cultural fit, and disciplined hiring practices shape her leadership strategy.

What if the biggest mistake nonprofits make with major gifts is quitting too early? In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with Michelle Porter, CEO and co-founder of Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, to unpack what really happens when an organization commits to building a major gift program from the ground up. Michelle shares her firsthand experience launching major donor meetings in the middle of rapid organizational growth, what surprised her most about donors, and why the first meeting is rarely where the biggest gifts happen. From learning to listen instead of pitch, to discovering that authenticity outperforms polish, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what sustainable major giving actually looks like. You'll hear why year one is the hardest, how donor relationships compound over time, and how simple practices like stewardship meetings and personal communication can transform not just revenue, but culture across an organization. This episode is for nonprofit leaders, executives, and development teams who know major gifts matter but feel overwhelmed, underprepared, or unsure where to start. If you've ever thought, "We tried major gifts and it didn't work," this conversation may change everything.

What really happens when nonprofit CEOs step out of the boardroom and into one-on-one conversations with their donors? In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with Michelle Porter, CEO and Co-Founder of Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, to unpack what she learned by personally meeting with key supporters—without a large fundraising staff or a formal major gifts department. Michelle shares how Souls Harbour grew from serving one meal to becoming a $17 million, multi-site mission, and how intentional, relational donor meetings from the C-suite transformed both donor engagement and internal culture. You'll hear practical insights on involving program staff in donor stewardship, shifting from fundraising to friend-raising, and discovering what truly motivates long-term supporters to give. If you're a nonprofit leader wondering whether major donor meetings are worth your time—or how to start without "doing it wrong"—this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a proven path forward. In this episode, you'll learn: What surprised Michelle most when she began meeting donors one-on-one Why major donor programs don't have to start with professional fundraisers How involving staff and clients strengthens donor relationships The most common motivations donors shared—and how to listen for them Why CEOs play a critical role in major donor engagement

In Part 2 of our conversation with Jordan Smith, Executive Chief Development Officer at Tree of Life Ministries, we explore what it really takes to reach donors from Boomers to Gen Z. Jordan breaks down the communication habits of different generations, how Tree of Life grew from a small online presence to more than 13,000 followers, and why social media is now the front door to donor engagement. Jordan also shares how strategic events — including something as simple as a community pickleball tournament — are bringing in brand-new supporters, and how thoughtful follow-up, prayer, and authentic relationships turn first-time donors into long-term partners. If you want to understand the future of donor engagement and how to connect meaningfully across generations, this conversation gives you a clear, practical roadmap from one of the leading young voices in nonprofit development.

In this episode, Roy Jones sits down with Jordan Smith, Executive Chief Development Officer at Tree of Life Ministries in Purcellville, Virginia. Jordan shares how a moment of compassion in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina inspired his family to launch a ministry that now partners with more than 40 churches and serves thousands each year. Together, Roy and Jordan explore what it means to lead with humility across generations—how younger leaders can introduce innovation while honoring the wisdom of those who came before them. From implementing new technology to building bridges between Boomers and Millennials, Jordan offers powerful insights on faith-driven leadership, generational teamwork, and keeping Christ at the center of every mission.

In Part 2 of this Fit Fundraising Podcast conversation, Roy Jones and Cheryl Hackett, Director of Development at the Wyoming Rescue Mission, dive deeper into what truly connects donors across generations—stories and relationships. Cheryl shares how faith, authenticity, and storytelling cut through today's digital noise and unite Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z donors alike. From crafting irresistible subject lines to blending traditional and digital outreach, she explains how to engage supporters meaningfully in a world crowded with messages. You'll also hear how nonprofit leaders can bridge generational gaps inside their teams, embrace innovation without losing trust, and keep their missions at the heart of every message. 🎧 Listen now and discover how timeless storytelling can transform your fundraising across every channel.

In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with Cheryl Hackett, Director of Development at the Wyoming Rescue Mission, to explore how giving habits are evolving across generations. From Boomers who still love their direct mail to Millennials and Gen Z donors who live online, Cheryl shares how her team bridges the gap through multichannel fundraising, storytelling, and faith-driven connection. It's a practical, hope-filled conversation about building trust, embracing innovation, and inspiring generosity that lasts.

From sustainers to segmentation, today's fundraisers face a world of change. How do we connect with Boomers who still carry the wealth, while preparing for Millennials and Gen Z who are shaping the future of philanthropy? In this episode, Roy Jones sits down with Kyle Gorman, Executive Director of Advancement at the Evansville Rescue Mission, to talk about: Why the first gift is the most critical moment for lifetime giving How younger donors respond to frequency and messaging The challenge of leading and listening on multi-generational teams What the coming wealth transfer means for nonprofits Kyle shares candid insights from leading campaigns, managing a cross-generational team, and meeting with donors across every age bracket.

From Baby Boomers writing checks to Gen Z giving online, every generation engages with philanthropy differently. In this episode, Roy Jones sits down with Kyle Gorman, Executive Director of Advancement at the Evansville Rescue Mission, to unpack the trends shaping donor behavior across the ages. Kyle shares lessons from leading a $9 million capital campaign, insights on balancing direct mail with digital, and why branding matters more than ever for nonprofits. Whether you're trying to reach loyal boomer donors, middle-aged givers blending mail and online, or younger supporters building lifelong habits, this conversation will help you navigate the shifts and grow stronger relationships with every generation.

What if the secret to breakthrough fundraising wasn't another conference, but a small circle of peers sharpening one another? In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with marketing professor and nonprofit strategist Dina Jones to unpack the power of mastermind groups. Together, they explore how masterminds go beyond networking, providing nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and CEOs with a safe, faith-centered space to share challenges, spark creativity, and build confidence. From her first experience in Nashville to co-leading groups today, Dina shares how masterminds can transform isolation into innovation—and how this cutting-edge approach is shaping the future of fundraising. Don't miss our Giving Tuesday Mastermind on September 20th, more information at fitfundraising.com/clearwater

In Part 2, Roy Jones and Carrie Lynn Wright dig deeper into the communication gaps, giving habits, and leadership challenges across generations. Hear real-world stories—like the viral "Tony the Paint Guy" moment—that reveal how embracing change, adopting new technologies, and fostering open dialogue can help nonprofits engage donors and rally multi-generational teams for long-term success.

In Part 1, Roy Jones sits down with workplace culture expert Carrie Lynn Wright to explore the defining traits of Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z—and how these differences shape nonprofit teams and donor relationships. Learn how understanding generational perspectives can strengthen workplace culture, improve communication, and build stronger connections across every age group.

What does it take to lead fundraising and marketing at one of the most trusted ministries in the world? Donna Lucas, Chief Marketing Officer of Joni and Friends, joins the Fit Fundraising Podcast to share how her team inspires generosity through consistency, transparency, and a mission-centered message. From adapting to economic uncertainty to creating omnichannel campaigns that meet donors where they are, Donna offers practical, powerful insight for nonprofit leaders who want to build lasting trust—and lasting impact.

What does it take to lead fundraising and marketing at one of the most trusted ministries in the world? Donna Lucas, Chief Marketing Officer of Joni and Friends, joins the Fit Fundraising Podcast to share how her team inspires generosity through consistency, transparency, and a mission-centered message. From adapting to economic uncertainty to creating omnichannel campaigns that meet donors where they are, Donna offers practical, powerful insight for nonprofit leaders who want to build lasting trust—and lasting impact.

In this episode, Roy Jones talks with Dr. Candace Gregory, from the Heartland of America, Omaha, NE.  Candace lays out what is required to be a successful frontline fundraiser and the characteristics needed to procure MEGA gifts for your nonprofit.  She announced in our podcast a $65 million capital campaign. Over the last two decades the ministry has raised more than $200 million to help the unsheltered and poor in her community to get back on their feet and succeed in life. 

In this episode, Roy Jones talks with Phil Altemyer, from the streets of Spokane, Washington.  Phil Altmyer outlines how he is transforming lives by using modern technology to demonstrate impact to drive more income for his programs.  Phil tells the secrets about how he grew his budget from $365,000 to over $24 million annually.

In this episode, Roy Jones talks with Herb Smith from the streets of skid row and his decades of service at the Los Angeles Mission.  Herb Smith outlines why having a heart for the donor is just as important as having a heart for the people you serve. Herb outlines critical techniques and characteristics for becoming a great frontline fundraiser.  

In this episode, Roy Jones talks with 28 year nonprofit legend, Tony Marciano,  President Emeritus of the Charlotte Rescue Mission, about nonprofit leadership and the challenges facing frontline fundraisers in America today. With emphasis on human services and work with homeless shelter guests; connecting to the emotions of the donor, learn strategies for campaigns that get results.    

Find out how to advocate for opportunity and equity at your nonprofit.  Learn the importance of empowering middle donor managers to apply DEI in the day to day activities.  How to build community and advocate for people in your organization through coaching, mentoring and meaningful conversation.  Amira Barger is one of the nation's leading specialists on DEI.