The Problem: No Story, No Connection When I began working with a local nonprofit, I found what many of us in fundraising know all too well:Plenty of heart. Strong programs. But no storytelling.No consistent voice.No emotional rhythm.Just one year-end appeal asking for...
A Storytelling Series Honoring Women Who Lead with Heart and Purpose The Work Worth Doing: Women Who Say Yes to the Spark Some stories begin with fireworks. Others begin with a whisper. After decades of writing for purpose-driven people and organizations, I’ve learned...
“Reconnect with your mission. Share a moment of gratitude. Call a donor just to say thanks. This isn’t fluff—it’s fuel.” A few years ago, I watched a campaign come to life—not with a splashy launch or a flood of emails, but with a simple impact story about...
Few people have shaped the world of fundraising like Jerry Panas. A master storyteller and one of the most influential voices in philanthropy, Panas was known for his books, including Asking: A 59-Minute Guide and Mega Gifts, which continue to be essential reading for...
Volunteers serve in an organization because they believe in its mission. They see the impact firsthand—children thriving in after-school programs, families receiving critical resources, and lives being changed. But when it comes to fundraising, many feel unprepared to...
