Connected Cause

AI is everywhere—but without strong data practices, it can’t deliver real value for nonprofits. In this episode of Connected Cause by Heller Consulting, we explore why data readiness is the foundation for responsible, effective AI use in nonprofit, education, and healthcare operations. As automation and AI tools accelerate in 2026, clean, well-governed data has moved from a back-office concern to a mission-critical priority. You’ll learn: The hidden costs of poor data quality—and how bad da...

Kelly Moody has been in the fundraising and advancement world for decades, working for global nonprofits and higher education institutions. Now, as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement for Teachers College, Columbia University, Kelly is thinking about how to best build relationships during times of uncertainty. Her advice? View times of uncertainty as opportunities to better connect with your donors and stakeholders. Focus on building trust in those relationships, and the financial...

Before joining Heller Consulting, Mike Kirkpatrick spent 20 years in strategic marketing and technical roles in the nonprofit and education sectors. As a principal consultant, he advises Heller's clients on digital engagement tools and digital strategy. In this episode, Mike boils down his top advice for nonprofit marketers. For more on digital advice, head over to teamheller.com.

RFPs and RFIs have been valuable tools for nonprofits when they are selecting new software. But with the tech needs of nonprofit departments becoming more interconnected and shifts in the options out there for organizations, sometimes and RFP doesn't get the full picture. In this episode, you'll hear from Heller Consulting's Director of Business Development, Jett Winders. Jett explains when to use a RFP and when you might need to look broader and do a technology assessment. For more on nonpro...

The term “digital transformation” in the nonprofit sector means different things to different people. For some, it’s putting an analogue process online. For others, it’s transforming digital fundraising efforts. For Andrew Caswell, he views digital transformation as remaking every process at an organization to better enhance the constituent experience. What is the key to reimagining that constituent experience? Good, clean, and reliable data. In this episode, you’ll learn advice from Andrew C...

Change management is a set of techniques that can help you move your nonprofit from your current state to your desired future state. During technology projects, dedication to change management increases buy-in and decreases staff fears. In this episode, Digital Transformation Practice Lead for Heller, Catherine Moore shares examples of successful change management at nonprofits. She also addresses how to support staff members who feel burned out, and how you can get started with change leader...

If your technology systems at your nonprofit aren't keeping pace with demand or your goals, it might be time to look into new options. In this first episode of Connected Cause, you'll hear from Keith Heller and Jeffrey Appell. Keith and Jeffrey have been implementing technology tools at nonprofits for decades. They give advice for how to craft a plan for your organization's technology, trends impacting the sector, and how you can support your staff right now through technology. You'll also le...