In this episode, I dive into a frequently asked question: how to determine the right amount to ask a donor for? I break down my thought process and introduce my special Ask Amount ebook, which is available for free.

I explore three key factors: the organization, the donor, and you, the fundraiser. I dive into evaluating an organization's size, effectiveness, vision, and fundraising goals. For donors, factors include their identity, mission alignment, financial capacity, and inclination to give.

Lastly, I discuss the role of the fundraiser, emphasizing the importance of courage and technical skills. I also include tips on engaging with donors and making successful asks. If you leave a five-star Apple Podcast review and send me a screenshot on LinkedIn, I'll share my ebook with you. Thank you for listening and continue to raise millions for impactful work.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I discuss how to determine if Courage Lab, my six-week group coaching accelerator, is the right fit for you. Courage Lab is designed for nonprofit professionals, such as executive and development directors, who are looking to raise unrestricted revenue from individual major gifts of $10k or more.

I provide an overview of what the program entails, including live training, recorded modules with six months of access, and personalized feedback. Additionally, I share success stories from past participants to illustrate the potential impact of the program. If you are ready to take action, prioritize major gifts fundraising, and grow bolder in your approach, visit julieordonez.com/couragelab to learn more and sign up.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey there, welcome back to Nonprofit Courage Lab! It's Julie, and today I'm thrilled to dive into a topic that's crucial for every fundraiser: how to score more major donor meetings. We're going to get super practical here, talking about what might be holding you back and what you can actually do to land those meetings.

So, let's address a couple of common reasons why you might not be getting as many meetings as you'd like with potential major donors. First off, are you actually asking for them? It sounds simple, but sometimes we forget to prioritize reaching out and making those requests.

If that rings a bell, let's take a look at where your time is going. Check out your calendar, your recent emails—see what's eating up your schedule. Remember, building relationships one-on-one is key for donor retention. Neglecting your current donors can lead to a leaky bucket situation, and we definitely want to avoid that!

Now, when it comes to asking for meetings, are you doing it effectively? Maybe your approach needs a little tweak. Let's carve out some dedicated time in your schedule for reaching out, and then let's work on improving the quality of your outreach.

Start by setting a goal for how many meetings you want to ask for each week. If you're not asking for any right now, let's start small and work our way up. And remember, timing is everything. Try asking for meetings first thing in the morning when you're fresh and focused.

But what if you're already asking for meetings and not getting the responses you hoped for? It might be time to optimize your approach. One common issue is that donors aren't clear on why you want to meet with them. So, let's get straight to the point in your outreach.

Personalize your emails, drop in their first name, and skip the generic pleasantries. Show them that you've done your homework and that you genuinely value their time and support. Make it crystal clear why you want to meet and how much time you're asking for.

And don't forget to inject some personality into your outreach! Think about how you can make your emails more engaging and authentic. Share something about yourself or your interests—it's all about building a genuine connection.

Now, when it comes to follow-ups, consistency is key. Keep following up at regular intervals, but make sure your follow-ups are just as thoughtful as your initial outreach.

Remember, fundraising is all about building relationships and making meaningful connections. So, approach each outreach with intention and creativity, and you'll be well on your way to scoring more major donor meetings. Happy fundraising, my friend!

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode we're diving in to what it takes to become a top-notch fundraiser and how it can transform your results.

First off, being a badass fundraiser isn't just about having a cool title – it's about getting the job done. So, what sets badass fundraisers apart? It starts with their attitude. Despite the pressure and stress that often come with fundraising, they remain cool under pressure and tap into their creativity, even when the clock is ticking.

Take, for example, the approach to engaging board members. Instead of simply asking for more major donors, a badass executive director focuses on connecting with individuals who are genuinely aligned with the organization's mission and values.

But badass fundraising isn't just about asking for money – it's about building genuine relationships. Rather than viewing donors as ATMs, badass fundraisers see them as potential teammates, each with a unique role to play in advancing the mission.

Negotiation is another key skill in the badass fundraiser's toolkit. They're not afraid to ask tough questions or push back when faced with a "no." By engaging in honest dialogue, they build trust and credibility with donors, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes.

And when it comes to communication, badass fundraisers know how to craft a compelling message that resonates with donors. They do their research, think strategically, and articulate the impact of their work in a way that inspires action.

But perhaps what truly sets badass fundraisers apart is their creativity and resilience. Whether it's sending a handwritten note adorned with cat stamps or owning up to mistakes and learning from them, they're always finding new ways to connect and persevere, even in the face of rejection.

So, if you're ready to take your fundraising game to the next level, channel your inner badass and remember – success lies in the journey, not just the destination.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hello, courageous leaders! In this episode, we dove deep into the concept that "You Are Your Results." We explored the idea that our actions, or lack thereof, directly reflect the outcomes we achieve in our fundraising efforts.

Many of you are leading incredible organizations and have the potential to make significant impacts. However, there's often a disconnect between what we say we want and the actions we take. If your goal is to grow and scale your impact, your calendar should reflect the necessary steps to achieve that growth. But for many, there's a mismatch between aspirations and actions.

We discussed the importance of asking for unrestricted revenue and major gifts. If you're not seeing the results you want, it's time to ask yourself when you last requested the funds you truly need. It's not enough to hope for million-dollar donations; you must actively seek them out and ask for them.

I challenge you to consider whether you've genuinely tried everything to raise the funds your organization needs. Have you reached out to that one donor who could make a transformative contribution? Have you been honest with your donors about the full extent of your financial needs?

This episode was a call to action. It's time to align your talk with your walk, to take bold steps, and to embrace the discomfort that comes with asking for more. You have the power to change your results by changing your actions. It's about integrity, courage, and the willingness to be vulnerable.

Next time, we'll discuss what it means to become a badass fundraiser. Until then, remember that changing the world starts with changing ourselves. Visit nonprofitcouragelab.com for more resources, and if this episode inspired you, please leave a review. Keep striving for greatness, and let your actions reflect your ambitions.

In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, I had the pleasure of speaking with the exceptional Lindsay Fuller, the Executive Director of The Teaching Well. Lindsay's dedication and innovative approach to leadership in the nonprofit sector, particularly in education, is nothing short of remarkable.

Lindsay and her team at The Teaching Well are on a bold mission to address educator attrition by creating supportive environments where teachers can thrive. Their work is not only about retaining educators but also reimagining the field to inspire future generations to pursue teaching as a profession.

During our conversation, Lindsay shared the transformative journey of partnering with me to develop a custom fundraising strategy. We discussed the importance of having a clear vision, measurable goals, and the courage to ask for major gifts. Lindsay's organization stands out for its commitment to tracking effectiveness and making values-based decisions, which has led to significant fundraising success.

We also touched on the critical role of mindset shifts, strategic planning, and the use of communication tools like LinkedIn to engage potential funders. Lindsay's story is a testament to the power of investing in development and the impact it can have on an organization's financial stability and ability to serve its community.

I am incredibly proud to support leaders like Lindsay and organizations like The Teaching Well. Their success in building a strong reserve, even through challenging times like the global pandemic, is a shining example for others in the nonprofit world.

For those considering working with me, Lindsay's experience highlights the value of investing in your organization's future and the transformative results that can be achieved with the right strategy and support.

Thank you for tuning in to Nonprofit Courage Lab. Remember, change starts with the courage to ask for more. Visit nonprofitcouragelab.com to connect and learn more about how you can raise major gifts for your cause. If this episode has encouraged you, please rate and review the podcast. Together, we can make a difference—one major gift at a time.

In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, I, Julie Ordonez, had the pleasure of speaking with Will Zweigert, the CEO of Flatbush Cats in Brooklyn. Will shared his transformative journey from the corporate world to the nonprofit sector, and how his passion for animal welfare led him to establish Flatbush Cats, an organization dedicated to solving the issue of overcrowded animal shelters.

Will's story is a testament to the power of personal transformation and the courage to ask for more. He discussed the challenges and successes of their recent capital campaign, which raised over $3 million to open their first spay, neuter, and veterinary clinic. This achievement was made possible through intense fundraising and development work, and Will is eager to share the lessons learned with other organizations.

During our conversation, we delved into the importance of building relationships with donors and the strategic decision-making that goes into fundraising. Will highlighted the value of stewardship and the joy of thanking and reporting back to supporters. He also emphasized the need to have direct conversations about financial needs, which can lead to more significant gifts and a deeper understanding of donors' passions.

Will's experience with the Courage Lab, my six-week major gifts training program, has been transformative. He learned to stop censoring himself and to ask for what his organization truly needs. This shift in mindset has already led to substantial fundraising wins, including a gift that was quadruple the amount he initially considered asking for.

I'm thrilled to see the impact that Courage Lab has had on Will and Flatbush Cats. If you're struggling with asking for major gifts or finding yourself avoiding the work, Courage Lab is designed to give you the strategy, training, and courage you need. For more information, visit JulieOrdonez.com and click on Courage Lab.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab. If you've been encouraged, please rate and review the podcast, and remember, no one has changed the world without first changing themselves.

This episode is a continuation of the Q&A recording of the live masterclass I did on wrapping up your year end strong. I answer questions about real life scenarios that come up with trying to get major gifts from donors. I dig into how to go deeper to find out what your donors are thinking, get insight from them that will help you shape conversations and give you more confidence to ask. 

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, we're going to talk about the essential ingredient for major gifts success – courage. In this recording of a live masterclass, I dug into what it takes to wrap the year up with a bang and start the new year off feeling rejuvenated and with the momentum you need to hit your goals. 

Fancy strategies and consultants are not the keys to success, there will always be the need for genuine human connection. And when you are actually approaching your fundraising effort with a people first mentality, you not only give yourself an advantage, you also build relationships that are so important in raising major gifts. 

Pick up the phone, have direct conversations, and approach major gifts with authenticity and confidence, listen in to this episode, I’ll show you how.

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Over the last 10+ years, I’ve been to over 1,000 major donor meetings and coached hundreds of CEOs, fundraisers, founders, development directors, and major gifts officers. In all those conversations, all those meetings, I’ve learned some things that I hope are helpful to you and will help you decide whether Nonprofit CourageLab is right for you!

I have learned that:

1. Fundraisers usually value money above time. It’s the opposite for wealthy people.
2. Fundraisers are afraid to do their jobs!
3. Nobody is really talking about fear.

In my 6 week program Nonprofit Courage Lab, you will learn how to have successful conversations with donors, close gifts, build confidence in yourself and your program, and move into bold action.  In this episode I’ll walk you through the process of the program, answer some FAQs, and give you some more insight so you can decide if CourageLab is right for you.

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I’ll give you a taste of a masterclass that I will soon have available! We will be discovering your fundraising persona. 

Are you a Stress Sammy? Newbie Nelly? Maybe Timid Trinity, or a combination of 2 or all 3? There are ways to address your struggles with each of these, but it all comes down to your mindset, your skillset, and your character.

I’ll share a few mantras to help you get through your barriers, such as:

• Abundance is guaranteed
• There are people waiting to be part of what you are doing
• “Yes” lives in the land of “no”
• Giving is a gift to the giver
• The mission is more important than your comfort zone

You don’t need the “perfect” pitch deck. Don’t wait to feel courageous.  Don’t wait until everything is perfect. Find some accountability and some support, and pick up the phone.

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Studies mentioned:

https://afpglobal.org/sites/default/files/attachments/generic/FEP%20Q4%202022%20Final.pdf

https://www.census.gov/content/dam/Census/library/publications/2023/demo/p70br-183.pdf

https://doublethedonation.com/matching-gift-statistics/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2018/08/14/three-steps-to-overcoming-resistance/?sh=7f2ceec95eae

https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=mHTEkvyjaLwC&oi=fnd&pg=PR1&dq=astd+study+on+accountability&ots=Tl_zG176Yi&sig=qGr1ndwsihxE_Pd2ko0WhPtsuJk#v=onepage&q=astd%20study%20on%20accountability&f=false

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Over the last few years, we’ve all been through a lot of stress, loss and grief collectively and it has worn a lot of us down. We feel tired and overworked, and many leaders are pushing beyond burnout.

When it comes to fundraising, that translates to overthinking, struggling to give up control, and approaching donors with impatience and uncertainty. Remember - your donors are people and they need connections and empathy just like you do, and pushy, desperate energy repels donors. 

Are you losing sight of your donors’ humanity? What about your own humanity? Are you allowing yourself to ask for help? Are you tending to your own well-being, or just keeping your head down and pushing through?

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, we explore eight crucial habits to help you raise $1 million from September through December. These habits will position you to achieve your year-end fundraising goals. Additionally, consider joining my training on August 27th and 28th to map out your major gift strategy for the rest of the year.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Does this sound familiar? You’re convinced that your donors can’t give any more than they already have, or you’re not sure you even have donors that can give more than $10k. The truth is that the word “all” isn’t accurate. 

If you want growth, exponential impact, community transformation, and generational change, you need to get out of the cynicism that has you convinced that your donors are maxed out. 

I’m here to help you:

• Overcome your disbelief
• Raise more simply by asking for more
• Get out of your head
• Stop sabotaging yourself

I understand that you want to protect the relationships you have spent years building, but you’re not damaging the relationship by asking for more money. Asking for more is asking them to buy in at a greater level, and that actually strengthens your relationship.

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Things can get tough during an economic downturn. When it’s harder to raise money, often I see leaders projecting their financial difficulties onto their donors or assuming that every donor’s situation is the same. Just because you get feedback from a couple of donors that they are struggling doesn’t mean that every donor is struggling.

I have a few pointers to help you build the courage you need to ask during a recession:

• Remembering the goal
• Who to ask
• How to kick fear out of the driver’s seat
• The best research tool

It’s likely that your major donors are ready to step up in new ways because they know people are struggling. You just have to ask them.

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

How much do you know about your biggest donors? How much do you know about the circumstances around the biggest gifts you have closed? These are clues to what is working and what you can do more of.

What you need to make sure you’re not doing is using relationship building as an excuse not to ask for donations. If someone is a huge fan of your work and is really involved in your mission and has the capacity to give a lot of money, ask them! They don’t need another best friend - they need more opportunities to help your work even more. Change the way they relate to you so they can see you as the executive they knew you could be. Don’t let relationships be the thing that’s stopping you from raising more money.

If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

I recently did a live workshop and I’m thrilled to bring it to you on the podcast! I’m going to give you practical, actionable steps you can do TODAY to get more major donor meetings.

There are a few things that hold us back. For some, it’s the skills. You need a better toolkit. For some, it’s the confidence to talk to your donors and ask the big questions. Today we’re going to talk about your mindset and what you believe about yourself, what you believe about your donors, and how those things need to change.

Have you believed any of these things?

1. This donor isn’t responding because they just don’t care that much.
2. They’re super busy and this isn’t a priority right now.
3. Why would these people want to meet with me? These people are so important, who am I?
4. I don’t want to intrude or overstep.
5. I don’t know what I’m gonna say in a meeting, so why should I ask for one?
6. You don’t think your donors actually have much more capacity
7. You need to accomplish more in your mission before you can meet with certain donors.

These are assumptions and beliefs that we assign to what’s happening. It’s not necessarily rooted in data unless the donor told you directly.

In this episode, I’ll help you to identify your beliefs and what to do with them. I’ll also tell you EXACTLY what you can write in your emails when you’re asking for a meeting or following up with a donor. I’ll cover 3 case study emails and how I would rewrite them and take some Q&A from workshop attendees

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Have you ever put something off for a long time and when you finally got around to doing it, it wasn’t nearly as hard as you expected? The fear is almost always worse than actually doing the thing. Fear is the signal that you’re about to grow - it doesn’t mean to stop. 

Make the decision and take the courageous action. Fear will only grow if you wait. When you learn to take action, even when you’re afraid, you can:

• Build lots more confidence
• Raise more money
• Grow your impact
• Fulfill your mission

If you don’t know how to do that, I need you inside CourageLab. My program is designed to help you get your first $10k in week one because you need a quick win and confidence boost. Take action now and change your relationship with fear.

Our next cohort will be in September 2023, so get on the waitlist for CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Your goal is set, you have your donor database, your front line fundraisers are ready to go, but you know before you start that the numbers in your projections won’t reach your goal. What do you do? What do you try next?

First, ask yourself a few questions:

• If you really believe that your largest donors were truly on your team, truly have your back and believe in your mission, how would you approach them?
• Have you asked for new connections, not just for more money?
• What is your system for cold outreach?
• Have you checked in and really connected with your current donors? You may have major donors hiding in your database that you haven’t fully connected with yet.

You haven’t really tried everything yet. There are other things you can try and even if you did those last year, you can do them again. Ask your most loyal people for more. Not just more money, but more in general, and see what comes of it.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving and start 2023 strong, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

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Courage comes from being uncomfortable, taking calculated risks that grow our mission and our impact. The one skill that I’ve started doing that has helped me raise millions of dollars is negotiation - and it’s uncomfortable!

I learned about negotiation at an event in Los Angeles years ago where I heard a story from a lady who was fundraising for a new hospital wing for low income and homeless families and individuals to really address the issues with healthcare and poverty. She managed to negotiate $2M from one donor because she really believed her mission was worth that much from one person. Do you believe that?

You need to have the guts and a plan to ask. Talk to your donors like equals. You have to be able to ask for more. It’s your job to ask for more! I teach my Million Dollar VIP clients how to do this so that closing 6 and 7-figure gifts becomes just another Tuesday. 

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving and start 2023 strong, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Today we’re going to talk about how rich people, your major donors, think during a recession. The important thing to remember is that even though some people are struggling right now, not everyone is. Your most generous donors are generous even in a recession. The best data you can get will come directly from your donors’ mouths when you ask them directly. Many of them prioritize generosity and want to be known by that. Your donors are generous people and when you treat them as such, that’s how they’ll behave.

Even though they may not be personally struggling financially, recessions are stressful and there is more consideration in what to do philanthropically. You must have a crystal clear vision of impact for the future, and you need to be really efficient in how you talk about your work.

Being able to articulate your big vision will inspire people, and that’s what you want. You want it to be obvious that it’ll take a massive amount of capital to make a massive impact. Be straightforward in your communication so your donors know why you need their unique value and their unique contribution. That’s when it becomes important to qualify your leads to be sure they’re mission aligned.

Finally, you have to be able to deliver and report back on the impact of the gift, regardless of whether there is a recession. Anybody can write a check and get a tax write-off, but wealthy people want to make an actual difference.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving and start 2023 strong, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

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Every few episodes, I’ll share an “Ask Julie” episode, where I’ll talk with a client or nonprofit leader about a question they have.

In this episode,I’ll give you a sneak peek into one of my monthly coaching workshops. Today’s question is, “Do I give up on this wealthy donor when there’s radio silence?” If a donor seems to be ghosting you, there are a few things you should consider. 

What are you doing to stand out among the many other organizations trying to get donations from them? Why should they choose you over everyone else? Odds are you haven’t done the work to be worth his investment.

Communicating with your major donors is worth 30 minutes of your time a week. Don’t fill up emails with offers and links and information. Keep them simple and personal, and don’t let resentment build towards your donors.

The root of courage is humility.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving and start 2023 strong, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I’m going to go step by step through the process for building a solid foundation for raising major gifts. I’m not talking about foundations or grants. I mean individuals who contribute $10,000 or more per year to your nonprofit. 

First, you need to identify who those donors are and align your priorities to build relationships with them. Don’t be so busy working in your business that you neglect your relationships with donors because if they leave you, you won’t have a business to run. You need to spend more time with them if they’re eager, responsive, giving every year, and even increasing their giving. Don’t take them for granted.

Next, you need to change who you are and how you see yourself. Get the guts to ask for more. Build your internal courage. The real risk is not learning how to do these things and hoping that your charisma carries you through.

It’s important to aso change the way you see your donors. When I say “rich people,” you might bristle a little bit. They know they can make more money. Their precious limited resource is time. Be mindful of how you use (and waste) your time as well as the time of your volunteers and donors.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving and start 2023 strong, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

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In this episode of the Nonprofit Courage Lab Podcast, host Julie Ordonez shares her insights on how to raise millions sustainably without burning out. Julie emphasizes the importance of simplifying efforts, treating donors as business partners, and negotiating to avoid unnecessary workload.

She highlights common mistakes in the sector, such as asking for too little and overcomplicating messaging. Julie provides actionable strategies to build trust, credibility, and stronger relationships with donors, while encouraging nonprofit leaders to step up and communicate their needs clearly. She also introduces her coaching programs designed to help nonprofits achieve their fundraising goals more efficiently.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

I started my career in fundraising during the great recession and that was a great training ground. I was lucky enough to have a boss that agreed to get me training and really hone my skills as a major gifts fundraiser. What I found was that no matter what situation the world is in, the best way to fundraise is by cultivating genuine relationships with your donors.

We are taught that it’s rude to talk about money. But, avoiding talking about money in an attempt to be polite isn’t helping your donors to help you. Inside CourageLab, I teach you how to be yourself when talking to rich people. I teach you how to have compelling conversations that lead to opportunities for them to have the impact that they want to have on the world.

We are not entitled to someone’s money just because we’re doing good work. Don’t take your major donors for granted. Studies show that gratitude is like oil for your brain. If you’re feeling stuck, it’s likely because you’re getting into entitlement and pride and you’re not practicing gratitude.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving and start 2023 strong, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

I hear many fundraisers and nonprofit leaders worrying that it’s somehow bad or unethical to raise money during a recession. In this episode, I want to talk about that mindset, how it became so prevalent, whether it’s accurate, and what to do about it. 

I started my fundraising career during the great recession. I was working with a community center and I couldn’t justify not fundraising, because the people we served were the most vulnerable. Their needs were the most dire. Times were hard for most Americans at the time, but I had to do what I could to help people survive.

The top 3 things you can do to recession proof your fundraising efforts are:

1. Get to know your donors, and let them get to know you. If they feel seen and valued beyond their monetary contributions, they’ll be on your side no matter what. 
2. Decide if your mission is important and urgent. If you don’t believe in your mission, you’ll find reasons not to ask. 
3. Build your empathy muscle for rich people. Don’t objectify them - you’re not entitled to their money. They want a connection too. 

There will always be a crisis. There are times to talk about donations, and there are times to just check in on your donors and connect with them. When you invest in relationships, you’ll know how passionate they are, or aren’t, about your mission. They’ll know they can trust you, even when times are tough, and you can ask them for exponentially more.

The fall cohort is open now!

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

It’s very common to be terrified of hearing “no.” To avoid hearing no, we ask for smaller amounts or avoid asking at all. That’s not the way to raise large gifts. The worst thing that could happen isn’t hearing no. The worst thing that could happen is you not asking for more and your community continuing to suffer.

The courage to hear “no” comes from being solid in your why. Is your work urgent? Is it lifesaving, or not? Is the benefit for your community worth your discomfort?

There are a few myths that hold us back from asking for more.

1. Some believe that they don’t have to ask for more. In reality, a moment of discomfort is nothing compared to the impact of you holding back.
2. The best major gift fundraisers must hear “yes” all the time. No, they don’t - they hear no more often because they ask more.

The first week of CourageLab is designed to get you a $10k gift. By trusting in my framework and following through on the challenges, you will be willing to hear no. Once you’re willing to hear no, and you can handle it gracefully, you will get more yes! Maintain the relationship and that no can turn into a yes. 

Get clear on how urgent, life-saving, and crucial your mission is. Is it worth hearing no for? How much do you need to ask for in order to get to your goals? Have a plan and be ready to handle the “no” with grace and strengthen the partnership, then watch how that will unlock radical generosity within your organization.

The fall cohort is open now!

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Part of building relationships and getting your nonprofit to the next level is learning how to activate the catalysts on your board. These are the go-getters, the ones that ask the questions, offer help, and want to do better than their predecessors. Are you really using their skills to their full potential?

One reason why you may not be getting the growth you need is because your board members don’t know what to help you with. They may never have done any fundraising before, or served on a board before, but they really do want to make an impact. They want to do a good job, and sometimes they can be quite competitive. Use that to your advantage. 

Get to know your board members and follow up when they offer to help. Get the buy-in from the influential, catalytic members of your board before the board meeting and they’ll be able to step into a strong leadership role next to you.

I challenge you to call a board member and ask them some of these powerful questions and create a plan so you can support them in helping you expand your mission.

The fall cohort is open now!

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, I’m going to talk about my CourageLab process and help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. CourageLab is a 6-week program for major gifts training.

In CourageLab, you’ll learn:

• How to identify the right donors
• How to get meetings with those donors
• How to ask them for more
• Overall strategy for major gifts
• Accountability and mindset coaching

CourageLab may be right for you if you have donors who are giving a thousand dollars or more per year and you know they could give much more. If you can admit that fear holds you back and you want to expand your impact and you’re ready to create a new relationship with fundraising.

Imagine enjoying fundraising. Imagine making one phone call and getting a $10k gift. Imagine a simple system. Imagine being able to identify the best ROI opportunities. In order to grow, you need to become someone new; someone more courageous. You need to invest in yourself. If the budget is small, and fear keeps you small, you’ll never grow.

My program promise is that you will raise a $10k gift in 6 weeks or less, or your money back. I can make a bold claim like that because I have helped dozens of leaders do exactly that. 

The fall cohort is open now!

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Fundraising that survives economic downturn and recession comes from a strong relationship with your donors. If you know them, and they know you, they will stick by you.

Here are the critical ways to build strong relationships with your donors:

1. Get personal. Share about your life, even if it has nothing whatsoever to do with your mission.
2. Ask powerful questions. Ask them why they give and you may find a much deeper connection with them.
3. Pick up the phone. Why are we so afraid of the phone? Just 2 minutes can accelerate your relationship.
4. Follow up. Not just about gifts and programs, but about things that your donors have shared with you. 

People want to be connected to you. It’s okay to get to know your donors and create these strong connections with them.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

What does it take to raise a million dollars? If you’re struggling, it’s not for lack of work ethic. In this episode I’ll cover the 3 keys to a million dollar strategy.

1. You need impossible goals. If your goals are tiny, they inspire tiny gifts. Impossible goals force us to think bigger and get more creative.
2. Prioritize meaningful fundraising activities. Don’t organize events that aren’t relevant to your people, just because you saw it being successful somewhere else. What is an activity that will bring your donors closer together, closer to your mission, and closer to your team?
3. Create an ownership culture. Stop pretending that you don’t have time if the reality is that you’re afraid. Once you own your attitude, you can change it. Control the controllables, and that includes yourself.

What impossible goals are you going to set today? How can you take greater ownership of the results you get (or don’t get)?

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Courage isn’t a feeling; it’s a muscle. Courage is feeling the fear and doing the thing anyway. It’s a skill you develop by doing more of what you’re afraid to do.

In my CourageLab framework, we build courage in these ways:

• Build an attitude of abundance. Believe that your donors can give more. Rather than looking for evidence that they are maxed out, look for evidence that they are on your team.
• Humble yourself. Be willing to experience any emotion and work through it. What are you willing to do that is so uncomfortable but you know is necessary to raise more money?
• Own your genius. Delegate everything you don’t have to be doing and spend your energy on what really matters.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

My CourageLab program focuses on 3 major components to help you become a world class fundraiser and build a strong major gifts program.

Courage: Humility that is fully developed looks like courage. It takes courage to have boundaries, to receive help, and ask for gifts. Being an exemplary leader takes guts.

Strategy: Learn how to structure your time and which donors to focus on. As an executive, focus on the people you enjoy, maybe the top 20 donors and start there.

Relationships: Build authentic relationships with your donors. Ask powerful questions, then genuinely listen with curiosity.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Who you are determines what you do. If your strategy doesn’t line up with who you are, it won’t work. Developing a culture of generosity IS your strategy. When generosity is rampant in your organization, it comes naturally to everyone involved. 

There are 5 keys to building a culture of generosity:

• An attitude of abundance
• Humility
• Focus on people and relationships
• Communication - both of frequency and quality
• Taking ownership

Whatever you celebrate, you will see more of.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, I walk through a case study of how I helped a gun violence prevention client elevate their Major Gifts program from good to great in just six months. We delve into the strategies and coaching techniques used to instill confidence, promote boldness in fundraising, and leverage team strengths to achieve significant results, including securing six and seven-figure gifts.

Join me as I share insights from personalized coaching sessions, a strengths-focused team retreat, and practical steps to optimize donor engagement and departmental processes. If you're looking to elevate your fundraising game, this episode is a must-listen.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

When it comes to major gifts fundraising, we talk a lot about renewing gifts, usually to the same amount that was given last year. How do you move beyond the same $25k year after year and grow exponentially? It takes a lot of courage to challenge donors to step up in new, big ways.

The goal has to be to uncover the passion within your donors and the impact that they desire to see, then leading them to extraordinary generosity.

Try it out with a donor you’re close to. They might just say yes, or surprise you with an innovative solution. It’s not because you’re greedy. You don’t care only about money. It’s time to lead from the front with power, with courage, and with generosity. You cannot ask them to go where you aren’t willing to.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Welcome back! In this episode I want to talk about how to change what you believe about your donors and yourself. There’s an attitude in the nonprofit sector that borders on martyrdom. We tend to believe that no one else cares as much as we do, that rich people are greedy, and that we are the heroes because we work for pennies for what we believe in.

In reality, humility, when fully developed, looks like courage. Asking our donors for more means that we are willing to sacrifice our image and our comfort level for the cause. A humble leader doesn’t burn themselves out.

You can choose to believe that there are people who are all in, who are willing to sacrifice just as much as you, and they will step up. 

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

We’ve all been there. Someone mentions in passing that they love your work and they’d love to help, they’ve shared on social media or come to an event, and you, being the nice person you are, thank them for being there and being supportive, even though what you really need is their monetary contribution.

We have to stop accepting scraps and being grateful for that. Be ready at any moment to ask them to help in a way you actually need. Let’s be real, awareness doesn’t pay the bills. If your budget was fully funded would you talk about raising awareness? Nope.

Part of why you haven’t gotten your revenue to where it needs to be is because you may struggle to receive help from people who have offered it. What if you went back to everyone who has offered help in the last 12 months? 

Authentic relationships with your donors are built on honesty and trust. Start telling people what you need.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

I started this podcast because fundraisers everywhere are terrified to do their jobs. There was a gap in helpers for dealing with the fear that comes with asking people for money. Our lack of courage is stopping us from changing our communities faster.

In order to change the world, we have to develop our personal courage. We put our comfort before the mission all the time. That’s why our organizations stay small.

My CourageLab is really a lab. Let’s try some things out, experiment, and learn from each other. I want to help you raise your courage so you can have a greater impact.

If you’re ready to double or even triple your individual giving this year, come grab your spot at CourageLab today! https://nonprofitcouragelab.com/

Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Julie Ordoñez is a leading fundraiser, coach, speaker and founder of CourageLab, a 6-week group coaching accelerator for nonprofit founders, EDs and fundraisers ready to double their individual giving. Nonprofit CourageLab shares soul-shaking insights on how to become a more courageous leader and raise more money for your nonprofit. No one changed the world without first changing themselves. If you want to raise more money to change the world, you are in the right place.

In this episode, I share a comprehensive strategy for the Boys and Girls Club of Bend, Oregon, to raise $2 million in unrestricted funds from individuals within six months. This deep dive covers analyzing their annual report, website, 990 on GuideStar, and existing fundraising efforts.

Key suggestions include auditing their messaging, effectively communicating their impact, leveraging compelling data points, optimizing events, and focusing on major gifts. I also discuss building custom donor strategies, creating big visions for future growth, and working smarter to minimize effort and maximize fundraising results.

This episode provides practical advice that can be implemented to significantly enhance their fundraising success.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, we address a common fundraising issue raised by listener Ben: being too conservative in ask amounts. Many nonprofits fail to raise the desired funds because they don't ask for enough, often due to fears of offending donors.

It's important to observe your own thinking, understanding donor intentions, and being bold in asks. Having a strong conviction in an organization's mission and how it ties into successful fundraising is essential to being more bold in your asks.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Welcome back to another episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab. In this episode I talk about becoming a leader that raises 7 figure gifts. I am going to walk you through what I've seen that it takes and what I have seen with my clients who actually become those leaders.

Leadership encompasses mindset, character, and team management. Technical skills cover donor communication, negotiation, and understanding wealth. The strategy involves creating and implementing high-return plans. The episode stresses the importance of personal transformation, continuous learning, and leveraging the right resources to achieve extraordinary fundraising results.

I hope this episode inspires you to become that leader.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode I am answering questions for my LinkedIn. We cover topics such as building relationships, how to ask for more money, how to get meetings, and more.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this podcast episode, I walk you through The Courage Lab Method for helping you raise $1-3M in 6 months.

The method revolves around three key pillars: leadership, technical skills, and strategy. And its also important to develop the right mindset, character, and courage in leadership. You'll also learn about how imortantant it is to master negotiation skills and understanding the wealth dynamics in order to understand how to help donors identify where they have opportunities to be able to give even more.

We talk about identifying and focusing high ROI opportunities, whether it's optimizing donor communications or leveraging personal networks. By prioritizing current donors and fostering genuine connections, organizations can raise unrestricted revenue for their missions more efficiently.

To learn more about this approach and how it can benefit your organization, you can apply to work with me via her website www.julieordonez/millions

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I share a case study about helping a New York City-based animal welfare organization secure an unrestricted $6 million gift, which is twice their annual budget of $3 million.

The discussion covers mistakes to avoid, strategies to build trust and credibility with donors, and the importance of a strategic plan with a big vision for impact. Emphasizing the high capacity and trust with donors, I explore the significance of having direct conversations when asking for large donations, such as $6 million, and the power of a simple proposal.

With personal anecdotes, I stress that generosity is a gift to the giver and that building strong relationships is key to acquiring major funds for impactful projects. This session aims to inspire and provide practical insights for nonprofit stakeholders seeking to level up their fundraising efforts.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Update

01:04 Case Study: Securing a $6 Million Gift

02:23 Building Trust and Credibility with Donors

04:51 Strategic Planning for Big Gifts

09:52 Crafting a Simple and Effective Proposal

13:41 The Importance of Direct Asks

30:07 Mindset and Personal Development

37:22 Conclusion and Encouragement

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

In this episode, I guide you through the essentials of major gift fundraising, focusing on strategic planning, effective donor engagement, and optimal time management.

I'm going to go over how to schedule and prioritize tasks, reach out to loyal donors, and request multi-year pledges and one-time gifts and the importance of aligning donation requests with your organization's strategic plan and the frequent solicitation of referrals.

Learn best practices for donor portfolio reviews, setting weekly goals, and utilizing various communication platforms. I'll show you how to proactively build relationships, leverage social media, and personally connect with potential donors. To enhance your fundraising impact, there is a big need for regular planning, clear donor criteria, and consistent tracking of progress.

Additionally, I provide tips on decluttering your calendar, balancing new donor acquisition with nurturing existing relationships, and embracing creativity in your fundraising efforts. Don't forget to check out my free donor scripts cheat sheet available on my website for further support.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey friend! Today’s episode is a little different. I’m coming to you unfiltered, and honestly, I'm fed up. In my work with nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and development directors across the country, I’m seeing some serious gaps that we need to address.

We’ve been talking a lot about mental health and wellness in the nonprofit sector, which is important—but what’s missing from the conversation is a real accountability check. We need to give ourselves grace, yes, but we also need discipline. Something has to change, and it starts with us getting real about what isn’t working.

In this episode, I dive deep into the challenges we’re all facing in the fundraising world. I see people in leadership roles with no real training or support, fundraising teams stretched too thin, and an overall lack of reflection on what’s actually working. The reality is, we’re repeating the same mistakes over and over again and expecting different results. That needs to stop.

I talk about:

- The alarming turnover in fundraising roles and why the average tenure is only 18 months.

- The rise of fractional fundraisers and why that’s a positive shift.

- Why so many people in leadership feel burnt out and stuck—and how to move past that.

- The importance of focusing on prospects who *actually* care, instead of wasting time chasing people who aren’t interested.

- The hard truth about accountability and why leaders need to step up and have direct, honest conversations.

This episode is all about getting real. It’s time to reflect, stop making excuses, and take control of what we can. If you're ready to be part of a revolution of courage and accountability in the nonprofit sector, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

- Grace vs. Discipline: We need to balance grace with discipline. Sometimes, we’re too lenient with ourselves, and it’s holding us back from progress.

- Stop Chasing Dead Ends: If a prospect isn’t interested after 18 months, let them go. Focus your energy on those who are engaged and willing to give.

- Leadership Accountability: Leaders need to have the courage to address the elephant in the room and hold people accountable, whether it’s your CEO, board members, or yourself.

- Reflect and Adjust: Are you taking time to reflect on what’s working? If you’re stuck in “go-go-go” mode, it’s time to pause and reassess your strategies.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Welcome to another episode of Nonprofit CourageLab! Today, I'm sharing a sneak peek into a recent Pitch-A-thon where we dive into the art of nonprofit pitching – not in a Shark Tank kind of way, but more like engaging in a powerful and meaningful conversation. Together, we’ll explore strategies to connect authentically with donors, practice impactful pitches, and avoid common missteps. This episode is perfect if you’re looking to make a difference through your ask, not just for your organization but in a way that resonates deeply with donors.

In this episode, we work with Sheena, a nonprofit leader from "To Write Love on Her Arms," as she crafts a personalized pitch. She highlights the importance of youth mental health, shares their impact on high school students across the country, and tailors her message to resonate with the specific values and passions of her donor.

Key Takeaways:

- Building Relationships, Not Pitches: A pitch should feel like a natural extension of a relationship. We’re not here to talk "at" people but to create a back-and-forth that lets the donor feel heard, valued, and understood.

- Focus on the Donor, Not Just the Cause: Too often, pitches spotlight only the organization’s needs. Remember: the donor is a partner. Tailor your ask to what drives them and make it clear why they’re essential to the mission.

- Tell Stories, Don’t Share Stats: Highlight how your work impacts individuals. Personal stories can be more powerful than numbers alone. For example, share how an 11-year-old struggling with depression found hope and healing through your program.

- Practice Makes Perfect (and Shorter!): Awareness of time is key. Practice your pitch, time it, and refine it so it lands clearly within a 2-3 minute window. You'll surprise yourself by how much impact you can make in a short, well-crafted pitch.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2 

Hey there, friends! In today’s episode, we’re diving into some big shifts happening in the world of philanthropy and nonprofits—and why it’s more crucial than ever for us to evolve with the times.

We’re in a new era. From policy changes on platforms like Facebook that affect nonprofit fundraising to a noticeable decline in DEI and education funding, it’s clear that yesterday’s strategies won’t carry us forward. We’re seeing funding sources dry up, priorities shift, and high performers leave the sector. If we don’t adapt, we risk getting left behind. And I don’t want that for any of you or the causes you champion.

Key Points Covered:

- Changing Fundraising Landscape: Social media platforms and government funding policies are shifting. For example, Facebook is no longer supporting recurring gifts or covering fees, and many big-name philanthropies are cutting their education budgets. To survive and thrive, we need diversified revenue streams and strategies that don’t rely on a single source.

- Talent Crisis in Nonprofits: The nonprofit space is struggling to attract, retain, and train talent, especially in development roles. Too often, we see fundraising stars promoted into management roles without the skills or support to truly lead. We need to invest in developing our people and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.

- Leadership and Growth: Being a great manager isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about coaching and supporting your team’s growth. It’s time to shift from a mindset of doing it all ourselves to empowering others to lead and create change alongside us.

- Avoiding Burnout: We are stretched thin, often doing multiple roles. It’s not sustainable. We need to communicate our needs, advocate for better support, and focus on activities that drive meaningful progress. As leaders, we have to model a healthier, more sustainable approach to work.

I also talked about the importance of self-reflection, especially as nonprofit leaders. Every quarter, I take a step back to assess how I’m doing in all aspects of my life—from my relationships to my work to my personal growth. We need to prioritize not only the tasks but our well-being and long-term vision. This kind of introspection and planning is essential to keep our organizations strong and sustainable.

If we want to see change in our organizations, it starts with us. We need to embrace new ways of thinking, build new habits, and invest in ourselves as leaders. It’s about growing our skill sets, enhancing our capacity to lead, and creating a culture where our teams feel supported, empowered, and inspired. Together, we can grow our impact and make a difference, but it requires action, courage, and a commitment to growth. So, let’s continue to challenge ourselves and each other to be the best leaders we can be.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2