Nervous about asking for donations? You’re not alone. Most fundraisers feel the fear too, but top nonprofits find ways to soar past it and raise more for their cause. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits, host Trevor Nelson sits down with Chris Hensley to reveal real strategies and stories that turn fundraising fears into big wins. Discover effective donor engagement, creative live auction tactics, smart event planning, and how to make asking for money feel easier. Learn how to build real donor relationships and make every event matter. Perfect for nonprofit leaders who want to boost donations and create lasting impact.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hensley-auctions/

Check out Bid Raise Bid's amazing fundraising resources: https://www.bidraisebid.com/blog

Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌

0:00 Overcoming Fears & Starting Out

2:00 My Journey from Music to Fundraising

4:45 Building Successful Fundraising Events

9:00 Pre-Event Planning Secrets

13:30 Winning Engagement Tactics for Auctions

19:00 Making Every Donor Feel Special

23:00 Turning Events Into Lasting Relationships

30:00 Proven Ways to Boost Donations Fast

41:50 Energize Your Events & Keep Donors Coming Back

46:40 Fundraising Can Be Tough—But Worth It

50:00 Thank Your Donors & Build Real Friendships

54:00 Connect With Chris Online