the burnout is real with Sam Laprade

What if you could tap into the enthusiasm of your biggest supporters and turn them into fundraising rockstars? That's where peer-to-peer fundraising comes in!

I had a blast chatting with Tess Conrad of Full Potential Fundraising, a fundraising pro who's passionate about helping small nonprofits do big things. Tess shared her wealth of experience on all things peer-to-peer – setting realistic goals, finding the perfect fundraisers, creative campaign ideas, and the importance of treating those new donors like the gems they are.

Key Episode Highlights: 

• P2P is about relationships, not transactions. Focus on those long-term donors, volunteers, and supporters who already love what you do. Their personal stories are your most powerful fundraising tools.
• Make it easy (and fun!) for fundraisers. Provide templates, social media ideas, and a simple guide.  The less they have to think about the logistics, the more they can focus on spreading the word about your amazing cause.
• Stewardship is EVERYTHING.  P2P donors aren't a one-and-done deal. Treat them like the new donors they are: welcome them, thank them, show them their impact, and keep them engaged with your mission.
• Your board members can be fundraising powerhouses.  With a clear ask and the right support, they can easily tap into their networks. Plus, P2P gives them an action-oriented way to truly make a difference.
• Start small and celebrate wins!  Don't be overwhelmed by the big P2P campaigns you see.  Even a modest goal with a handful of fundraisers can be a huge success for a small nonprofit, building momentum for future growth.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/GURy-BbU7ig 

Links and Resources:  

• Connect with Tess on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tess-conrad-cfre
• Learn more about Full Potential Fundraising: https://www.fullpotentialfundraising.com/ 
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

Why do those "big nonprofits" use those emotional, tear-jerking stories? Well, it's complicated and has a long history. But today, we are sharing a much better (and more ethical) way to inspire donors.  We're debunking harmful fundraising and storytelling myths to give you the tools to tell dignifies stories that get results.      

My guest is the brilliant Diana Farias Heinrich, the CEO of Habrá Marketing. Diana is passionate about helping nonprofits share their work in ways that empower both clients and donors. With certifications in DEI and as an Advocate for Survivors of Domestic Violence, she brings essential expertise to our sector. We talk about the long-term harm of those guilt-driven appeals, how to build trust with clients, and the transformative power of letting people share their stories on their own terms. 

Key Episode Highlights: 

• Stop using "poverty porn" narratives. Data shows people will give, but they won't stick around. Focus on the transformative power of your services – showcase the positive impact you're making!
• Clients deserve agency over their own stories. Informed consent conversations lay out exactly how a story will be used and the client's right to change their mind, giving a sense of control and safety within the process.
• Ask open-ended questions, not leading ones. Avoid retraumatization when interviewing. Instead of asking how terrible their situation was was, focus on what they did with your services and how things changed.
• Humanizing builds bridges. Portraying clients as more than just service users. Discuss their dreams, families, even fun facts – it helps donors see themselves in those your work serves.
• Ethical storytelling = better organizational culture. These practices foster communication between programs and fundraising, and ultimately benefit everyone, including your mission!

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube:  https://youtu.be/RKLqPgUfzgE 

Links and Resources:  

• Connect with Diana on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianafariasheinrich/
• Cultivating ethical narratives workshop: https://witty-musician-3516.ck.page/products/cultivating-ethical-narratives
• Your Guide to Informed Consent Conversations: https://informedconsentconversation.habramarketing.com/
• Learn more about Habra Marketing: https://habramarketing.com/
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• 10 Dignified questions guide:  https://www.gofurthertogether.ca/sign-up
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

In this episode, we delve into the critical importance of aligning your nonprofit's actions with its core values. We're joined by Hoang Murphy, CEO of People Serving People, who brings a wealth of experience from his journey as a teacher, a Foster, and a leader in the nonprofit sector. Hoang shares his expertise on creating impactful solutions for those affected by inequality and emphasizes the role of lived experiences in decision-making processes.

Episode Highlights:

• Identifying Core Values: Hoang guides us through the process of identifying the fundamental values that drive your nonprofit. He stresses the importance of narrowing down to essential values to establish a solid foundation for your organization's mission and actions.
• Translating Values into Action: Discover how to move beyond merely talking about values to actively incorporating them into your organization's operations. Hoang shares strategies for engaging your team and the communities you serve, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.
• Cultivating a Committed Team: Learn how to integrate your nonprofit's values into your hiring process. Hoang discusses the significance of real-life experience and cultural fit over traditional qualifications, highlighting the role of shared values in staff retention and satisfaction.
• Fostering Genuine Funder Relationships: Hoang emphasizes the importance of building authentic relationships with funders who truly understand and support your mission. He shares his approach to fundraising that has consistently helped double their budget year after year.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/aJ8-uNCxLvY 

Links and Resources:  

• Hoang Murphy (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/in/hoangmurphy 
• Hoang Murphy (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/hrcapist/ 
• Hoang Murphy (Email): hmurphy@peopleservingpeople.org  
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/

Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

The nonprofit-industrial complex - are we stuck?

In this episode, we delve into the intricate - and evolving - world of ethical fundraising within the nonprofit sector, featuring insights from Marie-France Roche, the Director of Community Engagement and Major Gifts at TNG Community Services. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in adopting Community-Centric Fundraising.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating Power Dynamics: Marie-France shares her perspective on the influence of power and privilege within nonprofit organizations and their potential to drive systemic change. We explore strategies for utilizing this power ethically to foster meaningful societal progress.
• Challenges for White Fundraisers: Addressing the unique challenges faced by white fundraisers in predominantly white spaces, Marie-France reflects on her experiences and the importance of supporting diverse voices within the nonprofit sector.
• Allyship in Action: Learn how to be an effective ally within your organization, advocating for equity and justice, even when you haven't personally faced the injustices being addressed.
• Innovative Fundraising Strategies: Marie-France discusses her journey in implementing innovative, equitable fundraising practices aligned with Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) principles, highlighting the practical aspects of such initiatives in dynamic nonprofit environments.
• Community First Approach: The episode concludes with insights on the transformative impact of prioritizing community needs over organizational goals, emphasizing the value of building lasting relationships with donors committed to justice.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/YsndeUvRwdI 

Links and Resources:  

• Marie-France Roche (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/in/marie-france-roche 
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

Are you feeling torn between supporting your team's work-life balance and striving to hit those all-important organizational milestones? For those managing small nonprofits, where every hour and every dollar counts tenfold, balancing personal growth and professional success can be a challenge. 

Today, we dive deep into creating a workforce that thrives on the “leading human-first” approach with Lacey Kempinski, CEO and Founder of Balanced Good. Balanced Good provides parental leave coverage – from the day-to-day hands-on work to big picture transition planning. Balanced Good believes that a supported transition to parenthood will benefit both our sector and the parents working in it. Lacey has a big vision, she wants parental leave to become a celebrated life milestone, not a feared employment gap.

Key Episode Highlights: 

• Leading Human First: Leading with a human-first approach is a strategic move. Lacey and I explore the long-term benefits,the pressing need for people-centered policies, and how they play a crucial role in employee retention in a sector that's primarily women-led. 
• Beyond Parental Leave: Targeting the nonprofit sector's approach to parental leave, Lacey addresses the broader spectrum of parental support necessary within our organizations. From the nuances of policy creation to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace, these actionable discussions could very well set your organization on a path to become a pioneer in employee well-being.
• Flexibility as a Retention Tool: We analyze how work culture—especially in the context of compensation and benefits—can be critically assessed and reshaped in innovative ways to prioritize the people behind the mission. By valuing flexibility and understanding, Lacey talks about creating a compelling argument for talent to stay, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the nonprofit world.
• Support at Every Stage: Discussing the ebb and flow of employees' personal lives—like becoming a parent—Lacey reiterates the need for smoother transitions. Learn about the steps for recruitment, hiring, and promotions that take the whole individual into account, ensuring that your nonprofit doesn't just survive these transitions but thrives because of them.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/tNxjzz1q6Fo 

Links and Resources:  

• Connect with Lacey Kempinski on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/laceykempinski 
• Learn more about Balanced Good: balancedgood.com
• Balanced Good LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/balanced-good/ 
• Mat Leave Workbook: https://icy-base-20781.myflodesk.com/1986644d-75ba-476f-a37f-788cd7e5d48d
• VIP Day Waitlist: https://icy-base-20781.myflodesk.com/vipwaitlist
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

Are you leaving the 'dirty work' to others? It's time for leader to embrace the saying, "no task is too small!" In this episode, we'll delve into the art of leading by example, fostering a culture of collaboration, and the transformative power of saying "yes and" to opportunities.

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Lanrick Bennett to The Small Nonprofit. Lanrick is not only the executive director of Charlie’s Free Wheels, a nonprofit teaching young people leadership through bicycles, but also Toronto's first bicycle mayor, a comedian, and a champion of community engagement. Our conversation promises to be an insightful journey into what it means to be a hands-on leader who isn't afraid to get their hands dirty – quite literally!

Key Episode Highlights: 

• Leading by Example: Lanrick emphasizes the value of leadership that doesn't shy away from any task. He's a firm believer that to inspire your team and serve your community, you need to be willing to dive into every aspect of your organization's work, including the grunt work. It's about truly showing that no role is too small and that every task is crucial to your mission.
• Saying "Yes And" to Opportunities: Drawing from his days in improvisational comedy, Lanrick stresses the power of being open to possibilities and building upon them rather than dismissing them. This mindset helps fuel creativity and innovation within an organization, leading to growth and new ways to tackle challenges.
• Collaboration over Competition: In the nonprofit sector, it’s easy to slip into siloed efforts, but Lanrick's vision is one of interconnected collaboration. By embracing partnerships and sharing resources, small nonprofits can amplify their impact without stepping on each other's toes.
• Vulnerability in Leadership: Authenticity and humility in leadership can resonate throughout an entire organization. Lanrick shares his personal journey, including both successes and setbacks, showing that it's not about being infallible, but about being relatable and transformative.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/P9LqhfPMV6c 

Links and Resources:  

• Connect with Lanrick Bennett on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LanrickBennett
• Learn more about Charlie’s FreeWheels: https://www.charliesfreewheels.ca/
• Email Lanrick: lanrickbennettjr@gmail.com | info@charliesfreewheels.ca
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/

Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

Advocating for change seems daunting, especially when you're working with limited resources and a small team. What if you knew the insider strategies to make a significant impact in your community and get your voice heard at city council meetings? In today's episode, we'll pull back the curtain on the power of local engagement and show you how a small team can pedal their message to the top.

Join us as we chat with the super inspiring Alison Stewart from Cycle Toronto. Her passion for sharing the joy of biking paired with her desire to make Toronto a vibrant cycling city led her to take on several volunteer roles since 2013. Her background includes senior leadership roles in the post secondary sector which saw her develop strategic plans that focused on supporting the diverse needs of international and domestic students on the one hand, while also securing funding and developing government and community partnerships on the other. 

Key Episode Highlights: 

• The Importance of Personal Stories: Alison spotlighted the strength of personal testimony in influencing policy. By encouraging community members to share their experiences during city council deputations, Cycle Toronto demonstrates the real-world impact of policies on individuals, adding a human element that stats alone can't convey.
• Strategic Relationship Building: Developing collaborative relationships with city councillors and other stakeholders, as Alison outlines, is critical. Even if some aren't naturally aligned with your mission, finding mutual goals can lead to progress you might not achieve otherwise.
• Leveraging Volunteer Passion: Alison's own journey from volunteer to advocacy leader exemplifies the multifaceted potential of volunteers in a small charity. They are not just a workforce; they're potential future leaders who bring energy and new insights to your core mission.
• Effective Messaging Across Mediums: Whether it's supporting communications or getting involved with municipal staffers, clear and targeted messaging is pivotal. Alison's work on providing relevant and compelling content speaks to the importance of how you present your issues to the world, essential for any small nonprofit.
• The Power of Collaboration: Alison and Cycle Toronto show us that partnerships extend your reach. By aligning with other organizations, community groups, and leveraging varied advocacy approaches, small nonprofits can amplify their influence and achieve common goals.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: 

Links and Resources:  https://youtu.be/NBZsYb21eUs

• Alison Stewart (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/in/alisonvstewart
• Alison Stewart (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AlisonVStewart 
• Alison Stewart (Email): Alison.Stewart@CycleTO.ca
• Cycle Toronto (Website): https://www.cycleto.ca/ 
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

What if walking away from the organization you've built is the bravest and most selfless choice you can make? Struggling to let go, battling founder’s syndrome, feeling like an organization will fall apart without you, and putting your life above your work—these are emotions many leaders in our sector face. Today's must-listen episode is a conversation with one such leader who tackled these issues head-on. Then, he turned that experience into expertise he now shares with others.

Mike Prosserman shares his story in this episode; from founder, to leaving the organization, to helping others transition gracefully from their roles.  Mike ‘Piecez’ Prosserman is a bestselling author, professional B-Boy (breakdancer), university instructor, and certified coach who specializes in scaling non-profits, team culture, and succession. In Michael’s book Building Unity: Leading a Non-Profit From Spark to Succession, he shares practical tools to building resilient and responsive organizations. He founded and scaled Unity Charity, a grassroots movement using Hip-Hop to improve youth mental health. Through EPIC leadership, Michael is empowering non-profit leaders to build more resilient and responsible organizations.

Key Episode Highlights: 

• Recognizing Founder Syndrome: Mike shares his own struggle with letting go of an organization he started and how he overcame the 'founder's trap' to ensure the best for both his well-being and the nonprofit's future.
• The Journey to Distance: Departing from his role was not a snap decision. Mike walks us through the reflective and brave process of distancing himself from his nonprofit, setting a precedent for leadership transitions that place personal health and organizational growth at the forefront.
• Teaching Leaders to Prioritize Themselves: Now, Mike's mission is to educate and support other nonprofit leaders and founders. He discusses how he assists them in forging paths toward healthier work-life balances and prioritizing their needs along with their organization's objectives.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/cgxK1coghmU 

Links and Resources:  

• Mike Prosserman (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/bboypiecez/
• Mike Prosserman (Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelprosserman/
• EPIC Leadership: https://www.epicleadership.ca/ 
• Unity Charity: https://www.unitycharity.com/ 
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

Feeling lost in the noise and chaos of social media? Let's shift our perspective and rediscover the power of emails. In today's episode of we'll explore why emails remain a timeless tool for building meaningful supporter connections. While social media can be attention-grabbing, it's through emails that genuine conversations and long-lasting bonds are nurtured.

Our guest, Sara Hoshooley is a fundraising consultant and coach with a passion for small nonprofit organizations. As a former small charity Executive Director, she understands the challenges and opportunities facing small but growing nonprofits. Her unique approach uses each organization's strengths to grow fundraising in an authentic and achievable way. 

Key Episode Highlights: 

• Acquire Donors Through Email: Unlike the fast-paced world of social media, emails offer a cozy space for meaningful conversations with your supporters. Learn why having a strategy to grow your email list is essential.
• Growing Your List: Provide valuable resources like checklists or guides in exchange for email sign-ups. Sara explains how this  exchange can kickstart trusting relationships with supporters.
• The Strength of Recurring Donations: Small, monthly gifts can have a big impact. Sara reveals how starting these campaigns can provide steady fuel for your nonprofit's growth.
• Building a Community, Not Just Numbers: Email collection isn't just about quantity. It's about nurturing a community of supporters aligned with your mission. Each email is an opportunity to strengthen this connection. Use clear, simple communication.
• Email Etiquette - Respect Boundaries and Laws: Sara discusses the importance of complying with local and national regulations. It's all about understanding what is consent and ensuring recipients are happy to hear from you.

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/W1PAtQ2x7dI 

Links and Resources:  

• Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Sarahoshooley/
• Sara’s Website: https://www.charityshift.ca/
• Email: Sara@charityshift
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

Are the challenges in your nonprofit growing pains or signs of  deeper issues? With a New Year, we have the opportunity to reflect on what is working and what is not!  If we don't address the roots of operational dysfunction, our mission is at risk. 

In today’s episode, we’re exploring how the heart and soul of our work – our culture – plays a huge role in our success. We're discussing how nurturing the right environment can make your nonprofit more effective, scalable, and fundable.

On this episode of The Small Nonprofit, we're talking with Miriam Dicks, owner of 180 Management Group. Miriam has over two decades of operational management and consulting experience. She brings her insights to the operational challenges facing our sector. From the perils of toxic workplace cultures to the smart outsourcing of HR functions, Miriam opens up about what truly can move the needle for small nonprofits.

Key Episode Highlights: 

• Mutual Accountability: Leadership isn't about overseeing; it's about being a role model. Just like any team member, Miriam emphasizes the importance of holding leaders accountable. This isn't about control; it's about everyone striving for their best.
• Embracing Change: Heard the phrase, "We've always done it this way"? It's a common barrier but often masks the real issue – change management. Miriam shares that recognizing the need for change is just the first step. The real game-changer is sustaining it.
• Culture Eats Strategy for Lunch: Change is about shifting culture. We will explore why a healthy organizational culture is non-negotiable. We will also discuss how it can make or break your strategic efforts.
• Smart Operations for Small Teams: Think your small team can't achieve big things? Think again! Miriam discusses how automation and strategic outsourcing can dramatically increase your capacity without expanding your team.
• The Long Game in Decision Making: Miriam emphasizes that strategic decisions made today will have long-term implications. She encourages nonprofit leaders to think ahead, invest in the right resources, and dare to be trailblazers. 

Don’t forget to become a supporter of our show!

Links and Resources:  

• Connect with Miriam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriampdicks 
• Website: https://www.180managementgroup.com/  
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new