The Charity Charge Show

In this conversation, we interview Toni Cunningham, the president and CEO of the Godman Guild, a nonprofit organization focused on workforce development and economic mobility. Toni discusses the organization's mission to empower individuals through durable skills training, personalized career pathways, and community partnerships.She shares insights from her journey into nonprofit leadership and emphasizes the importance of team management and collaboration. The conversation also highlights upcoming events and the exciting future plans for the Godman Guild.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we interview Karen Houghton, CEO of Infinite Giving, about the unique financial challenges faced by nonprofits and how her organization aims to address these issues. Karen shares her journey from being an executive director of a nonprofit to leading a financial advisory firm that specializes in helping nonprofits manage non-cash donations, navigate financial complexities, and achieve sustainability. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the nonprofit financial landscape, the rise of asset gifts, and the need for strategic financial planning to ensure long-term success.Karen previously served as an executive director, spent a decade in tech and venture capital, and serves on boards ranging from small nonprofits to institutions with multi-billion-dollar endowments. She holds a Series 65 and leads Infinite Giving’s work across 41 states.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this nonprofit spotlight conversation, Lee Bynum, the executive director of Maestra Music, discusses the organization's mission to empower diverse individuals in the music and theater industry. Lee discusses the challenges of underrepresentation, the importance of mentorship, and the need for systemic change.Lee shares insights from their background in philanthropy and the significance of measuring impact through both quantitative and qualitative data. The conversation also highlights the importance of building relationships with corporate sponsors and the organization's future aspirations for inclusivity and community involvement.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this conversation of the Charity Charge Show, we speak with Patrick Callihan, CEO of Tech Impact, about the organization's mission to leverage technology for social impact in the nonprofit sector. They discuss the various services Tech Impact provides, including capacity building, workforce development, and consulting.Patrick shares insights on the evolving technology needs of nonprofits, the challenges of cybersecurity, and the role of AI in enhancing organizational efficiency. The conversation also highlights the importance of data analytics and practical advice for nonprofits to improve their operations and security measures.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this nonprofit spotlight, we chat with Rashun Faust, the Director of Philanthropy at Vogel, an organization dedicated to addressing family homelessness in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Rashun discusses the impactful services Vogel provides, including mental health support for both children and parents, and the importance of a two-generational approach to breaking the cycle of poverty.He shares insights from his journey in the nonprofit sector, the evolving landscape of philanthropy post-COVID, and the significance of nurturing donor relationships. Rashun emphasizes the need for a supportive organizational culture to retain staff and concludes with advice for fellow nonprofit leaders.Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we speak with Cordell Carter, executive director of the Project on Belonging and founding director of the Festival of the Diaspora at the Aspen Institute.Cordell’s career has spanned philanthropy, policy, leadership development, and international convenings. At the core of his work is one mission: connecting people across cultures, sectors, and geographies to spark collaboration and impact.From his leadership of Aspen’s Project on Belonging to the Festival of the Diaspora’s global gatherings, Cordell champions cross-cultural connection and mentorship. In this conversation, he offers candid insights on the future of philanthropy, the urgent need for efficiency in nonprofits, and how humility in leadership can transform organizations.He also unpacks why mergers may be the survival strategy nonprofits need, why funders should be bolder with long-term bets, and why partnerships with local governments often unlock new levels of sustainability.Highlights from the ConversationPhilanthropy should be more risk-taking. Foundations are too often risk-averse, forgetting that their role is catalytic, not conservative.Not every nonprofit needs to exist. Duplication drains resources. Funders can and should incentivize mergers and collaborations.Efficiency is survival. Leaders must be willing to cut, restructure, and refocus to protect the mission.Partnerships matter. Local government and community foundations are critical allies for long-term sustainability.Leadership is about humility. Creating upwardly mobile experiences for staff, retaining talent, and being willing to admit mistakes are all essential.Global belonging. The Festival of the Diaspora creates spaces for cross-cultural collaboration, highlighting innovation from often-overlooked leaders.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we interview Patrick Young, the National Vice President of Workforce Development and Economic Development at the Youth Advocate Programs (YAP). They discuss YAP's mission to support youth impacted by the justice system, focusing on providing alternatives to incarceration and addressing the barriers to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals.Patrick shares insights into YAP's holistic approach, which includes family support and community engagement, and highlights the organization's impressive success rates. As YAP celebrates its 50th anniversary, Patrick discusses the challenges faced by nonprofits in the current landscape and offers advice for future preparedness, emphasizing the importance of integrating digital strategies to reach and support youth effectively.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we talk with Shane Scott, Regional Director of Development at Kids Alive International, about what it takes to support children who have experienced abuse, neglect, and abandonment.Shane shares how Kids Alive delivers holistic, identity-based, trauma-informed care across multiple countries, why donor relationships must be partnerships, and how nonprofit leaders can sharpen their niche by listening first.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we speak with Jonathan Agin, an attorney and executive director of Prep 4 Gold, about his personal journey into childhood cancer advocacy following the loss of his daughter. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in nonprofit leadership, the importance of prevention in pediatric cancer, and innovative fundraising strategies like the Gold Friday campaign. Jonathan shares insights on how to effectively support childhood cancer research and the unique mission of Prep 4 Gold.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

Streaming has overtaken traditional TV, but most nonprofits still struggle to access connected TV (CTV) inventory at a sustainable cost. AdGood, a 501(c)(3) led by CEO Kris Johns, is changing that by securing donated, unused CTV inventory from major publishers and making it available exclusively to nonprofits, at roughly a 70% discount to market rates.The result: organizations can reach the biggest screen in the home with precise targeting and measurable outcomes—often at a price similar to social ads.In a recent Charity Charge Show conversation, Johns unpacked how AdGood works, why CTV belongs in a nonprofit media mix, and what’s next, including the new AdGood Nonprofit Media Fund to cover media costs for organizations with little to no budget.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Nonprofit Spotlight Series, we sit down with Ned Staebler, President and CEO of TechTown. They discuss Ned's journey into the nonprofit sector, the mission of TechTown in supporting entrepreneurs in Detroit, and the challenges faced by small business owners, particularly in accessing capital. Ned shares insights on nonprofit funding, the importance of organizational culture, and the role of technology in enhancing efficiency.TakeawaysNed's journey into the nonprofit sector was unplanned.TechTown's mission focuses on breaking cycles of intergenerational poverty.Access to capital is a significant challenge for entrepreneurs.Non-dilutive funding is crucial for underserved founders.Philanthropic support is essential for TechTown's operations.Nonprofits often operate more efficiently than for-profits.Organizational culture is key to retaining talent in nonprofits.TechTown has a professional services network to support entrepreneurs.Technology consolidation can improve nonprofit efficiency.Visitors to Detroit will find a vibrant community and emerging tech scene.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this nonprofit spotlight, we speak with Courtney Sanders, the executive director of Blue Star Families' Chicagoland chapter. They discuss the organization's mission to support military and veteran families, the challenges these families face, and the initiatives being implemented to foster community connections. Courtney shares her personal journey into nonprofit leadership and highlights the importance of building relationships within the community to enhance support for military families.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charged show, Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm, president and CEO of Step Forward, discusses the organization's mission to empower low-income families towards self-sustainability. She shares insights on transforming organizational culture, the importance of trust in leadership, and the challenges of navigating funding in the nonprofit sector.Dr. Chisholm emphasizes the need for nonprofits to balance business acumen with their charitable missions, advocating for a sustainable future for organizations like Step Forward.About Dr. Jacklyn ChisholmA lifelong learner, Dr. Chisholm is a Harvard Business School alumna with additional executive education credentials from the Harvard Kennedy School, Wharton School, and Cornell University. She holds a B.A. in Medical Anthropology, M.A. in Psychological Anthropology, and a Ph.D. in Psychological Anthropology with a focus in Educational Anthropology from Case Western Reserve University.Dr. Chisholm has broken barriers throughout her career, including as the first Vice President of Planning and External Affairs at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, where she led the $13 million construction of its Library and Archives. At Case Western Reserve University, she was the first to hold multiple pioneering roles, including Associate Vice President for Community Partnerships and Director of Community Relations.Her work has earned widespread recognition, including the Crain’s Cleveland Business Notable Leader in Philanthropy, Smart Business Progressive Woman Award, YWCA Woman of Achievement, and the Council for Opportunity in Education National TRIO Achiever Award, among many others. A proud Leadership Cleveland alumna, Dr. Chisholm continues to be a trailblazer in education, advocacy, and transformational leadership.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this conversation, we interview Rick Dahlseid, CFO of Janus, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addiction treatment and recovery in the Bay Area. Rick discusses the organization's history, its trauma-informed care approach, and the importance of reducing stigma around addiction. He shares insights into his role as CFO, the significance of diversifying funding sources, and the value of collaboration among nonprofits. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support and engagement in addressing addiction issues.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, Robert Santana, CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to leading a nonprofit organization. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, innovative approaches to community challenges, and the evolution of leadership roles in nonprofitsRobert discusses the significance of building trust, creating pathways for education and employment, and the future initiatives aimed at empowering youth. His insights reflect a commitment to collaboration and community engagement, highlighting the transformative impact of nonprofits.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Non-Profit Spotlight Series, Matt Bradshaw interviews Dr. Trey McMullen, who shares his journey from military service to founding the SYOTOS Foundation. Dr. McMullen discusses his experiences in various nonprofit sectors, including human trafficking and sexual assault, and emphasizes the importance of community support and mentorship for vulnerable populations.He also explores the balance between commercial innovation and philanthropic impact, highlighting the need for facilities and resources to support survivors and those in need.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we sit down with Jeff Eysaman, CEO of Christopher Community (CCI), to talk nonprofit leadership, collaboration, and the future of affordable housing in Central and Western New York.From early lessons at Boys & Girls Clubs and the YMCA to guiding an organization that manages 3,000+ units across 68 properties, Jeff shares how “housing is our vehicle, people are our business.”Key TakeawaysLead as a listener. Early leadership roles taught Jeff to be an authentic, “listen-first” leader who values collaboration and invests in people.Operate to amplify impact. Mission-first requires strong operations—budgets, partnerships, and efficiencies that make programs sustainable.Housing is community infrastructure. CCI’s work extends beyond buildings to convening partners, advocating for residents, and bringing wraparound services on-site.Hope is in the momentum. With housing elevated in local, state, and federal conversations—and strong community partners—solutions are within reach.Better together. Scarcity mindsets hold nonprofits back; ecosystems of partners help families thrive and attract the next generation of talent.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this nonprofit spotlight, host Matt Bradshaw speaks with Justin Pasquariello, the CEO of East Boston Social Centers. They discuss Justin's journey into the nonprofit sector, the mission and impact of East Boston Social Centers, and the importance of understanding community needs.Justin shares insights on balancing mission and administration, engaging the board, and diversifying funding sources. The conversation also touches on the role of storytelling in fundraising, collaboration with other nonprofits, and the impact of technology and AI in the sector. Justin emphasizes the need for nonprofits to adapt to changing landscapes and the importance of community involvement in achieving their missions.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this nonprofit spotlight, we speak with Stacey Charpentier, the Executive Director of the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR). We discuss Stacey's journey in the nonprofit sector, the mission of CCAR, and the challenges faced in nonprofit leadership, particularly regarding funding. Stacey shares insights on the importance of community support, transparency in leadership, and innovative solutions like the new Coachally platform for recovery coaching. The conversation emphasizes the need for ongoing advocacy and the positive impact of recovery support services.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.

In this episode, Stephen sits down with Ann Fellman, CMO at Bloomerang, to unpack what’s actually happening in charitable giving and how nonprofits can raise more—consistently. Drawing from the latest Giving USA data and Bloomerang’s vantage point across tens of thousands of organizations, Ann argues that the “decline in generosity” narrative is a myth.Generosity is shifting, not shrinking, and organizations that focus on relationships, recurring giving, and volunteer engagement are outperforming the sector.“Generosity is alive and well—and growing. When we build genuine relationships and make giving easy, nonprofits raise more.” — Ann FellmanAbout Our GuestAnn Fellman leads marketing at Bloomerang, a nonprofit giving platform that brings together donor CRM, fundraising (online, offline, events, auctions), and volunteer management in one place. Bloomerang’s goal is simple: help nonprofits raise more—money, time, and community support—by making it easier to build lasting relationships.Episode SnapshotGenerosity is growing. Individual giving remains the largest slice of the pie and has increased year over year. Don’t let negative headlines drive your strategy—follow the data.The “meaty middle” matters. Mid-level and first-time donors can become a predictable revenue engine with a thoughtful recurring giving strategy.Volunteers are super-supporters. Treat volunteer time as an on-ramp to deeper engagement; volunteers often become major donors and planned givers.Planned giving is changing. As the Great Wealth Transfer accelerates and more family foundations adopt spend-down policies, proactive relationship-building is essential.Make it easy to give. Donation page UX and integrated tools can materially lift conversion (Ann cited ~30% conversion lift for customers optimizing with Bloomerang’s fundraising tools).Data + empathy = durable growth. Segment by life stage, align asks to donor capacity and timing (yes, market cycles influence larger gifts), and communicate impact clearly.About Charity Charge:Charity Charge is a financial technology company serving the nonprofit sector. From the Charity Charge Nonprofit Credit Card to bookkeeping, gift card disbursements, and state compliance, we help mission-driven organizations streamline operations and stay financially strong. Learn more at charitycharge.com.