Fundraisers as Changemakers: Leading Our Organizations to Equity

with Sarah Clinton from the South Sound YMCA

At the very center of all nonprofit organizations is a strong mission that guides our work, and regardless of the mission, success in all nonprofits centers around building genuine relationships with people. In this session, we will take this basic idea and reframe the fundraiser’s role in the organization – from one of funding the mission, to one of carrying out mission work and leading community change. In other words, shifting a fundraisers role from basic to brilliance.

Key message: Donor-centered fundraising was the mantra of success for decades of professionals learning how to fund our mission. Community-centric fundraising is gaining popularity because of its ability to reach a wider range of potential donors but comes with its own drawbacks and fear around how changing our relationships with donors will impact giving.

This workshop draws from each of these theories to create a new, people-centered approach to fundraising that aligns with the organizational values, and positions fundraisers as agents of change.

Addressing challenges: One challenge many fundraisers face is the fear of losing the gift. This workshop will help participants shift their mindset to a culture of abundance and partnership that will reduce fear and help people move forward with confidence.