First Day Podcast

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Is This a Bad Time for a Fundraising Campaign Nov 30, 2025

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In this episode of The First Day from The Fundraising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by the philanthropic powerhouse himself, Gene Tempel, Ed.D., Dean Emeritus and founding father of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Together, they dive headfirst into a question that keeps many nonprofit leaders up at night: “Is this a bad time to launch a capital campaign?” The answer? Well, let’s just say it’s complicated, but not impossible. Gene reminds us that before we start counting pledges, we’ve got to answer the most basic question: What’s the compelling case for support? It’s not about shinier buildings or more vans, it's about fulfilling the mission and addressing urgent needs in society. Now, if you’re waiting for a perfect economy, spoiler alert: you’ll be waiting a long time. From the energy crisis to the Great Recession to COVID, Gene’s seen it all, and fundraisers kept fundraising. Instead of running from uncertainty, nonprofits should focus on preparation. That means digging into the test for readiness, planning like it’s a chess game (hello, “what-if” scenarios), and launching feasibility studies that give donors the mic. Because, as Gene points out, “not everyone is affected the same way” in tough times. Some donors are doing just fine and may even be more ready to give than you think. Gene takes us inside the anatomy of a capital campaign and zeroes in on the often-forgotten “middle of the gift range chart,” the fundraising Bermuda Triangle. We know our biggest donors. We love our annual givers. But what about those $2,000 donors who could be cultivated into $25,000 champions? “That’s where it breaks down,” Gene says. Building systems to engage mid-level donors isn’t just smart, it’s essential. It’s also okay to fail the readiness test, pause a campaign, or renegotiate pledge timelines. Flexibility is not a weakness. It’s leadership. Gene offers some pop-culture perspective: as Billy Joel once sang, “We didn’t start the fire,” and neither did you. History is full of crises, but capital campaigns still thrive. “If you have a compelling case, urgency, internal readiness, and donor validation,” Gene says, “then go forward.” And if things go sideways? Adjust, adapt, and keep your eyes on the mission. Because fundraising isn’t just about money, it’s about movement. And thanks to legends like Dr. Tempel, this movement’s got a playbook for every season.

Using AI to Strengthen Your Cause Nov 23, 2025

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In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by Darian Rodriguez Heyman and Cheryl Contee, MBA, co-authors of AI for Nonprofits: Putting Artificial Intelligence to Work for Your Cause, to demystify what artificial intelligence means for the social sector. Spoiler alert: it’s not a robot apocalypse, it’s an efficiency revolution. From donor research to budgeting, from strategic planning to personalized thank-you letters, AI isn’t just the future, it’s already on your desktop. As Darian puts it, AI is “the new electricity,” and when responsibly leveraged, it can energize every part of your mission. But hold on to your server, there’s some fear in the air. Cheryl addresses common anxieties head-on, including worries about job loss, high costs, or that AI will take over the planet (or at least the inbox). Her response? “Sweetie, honey, baby… AI is already here.” And you’re probably already using it: think email filters, scheduling tools, and CRMs. The goal isn’t to replace humans; it’s to give them more time to do the human stuff, like building relationships and earning trust. With countless low-cost and free tools available, Cheryl argues that AI offers a chance to double your capacity, without doubling your payroll. Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. Darian dives into the very real concerns about data privacy, accuracy, and inclusion. Whether it’s protecting donor information or acknowledging AI’s occasional habit of confidently making things up, the solution is human oversight and intentional design. He encourages nonprofits to build custom AI tools trained on their organization’s mission and voice, emphasizing that AI should always serve the people, never replace them. And while the tech is exciting, it’s not the hero of the story. The beneficiaries are. Always. So what now? Cheryl and Darian offer a roadmap for using AI to raise more money, increase impact, and reconnect with supporters. From segmenting donors to boosting grantwriting, automating admin tasks to predicting major gift readiness, AI can help you do more with less, if you’re willing to learn the tools and keep your mission front and center. Because at the end of the day, AI doesn’t understand hunger or homelessness or the power of live theater. But you do. And now, with a little robot backup, you just might have the time to answer all those emails.

Hybrid Work and Fundraising: What’s the Connection? Nov 16, 2025

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In this retention-minded, myth-busting episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with Erica Dollhopf, PhD, Associate Director of Research at the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, to explore what hybrid work really means for fundraising outcomes. Spoiler alert: it's not the productivity killer some fear, it might just be a revenue booster. Dr. Dollhopf shares findings from a recent study that analyzed frontline fundraiser performance based on office attendance policies. While conventional wisdom suggests “more time in the office = better results,” the data tell a different story. More required office time did increase donor contacts, but for key metrics like solicitations, closes, and dollars raised, fewer in-office days and more experience proved to be the winning combo. The implications are clear: rigid attendance policies may be outdated, especially in a profession where 75% of the workforce identifies as women, and hybrid flexibility is now a make-or-break factor in retention. With longevity at an institution showing a direct link to fundraising results, allowing autonomy isn’t just a benefit, it’s a strategy for maximizing giving. So what now? Dr. Dollhopf encourages fundraisers to use these findings to advocate for flexibility and support. For organizational leaders, the takeaways are actionable: invest in tech, nurture mentorship in hybrid settings, and be intentional about building culture, even if it’s over Zoom. Because when fundraisers are trusted, supported, and retained, giving goes up.

Latest Data on High Net Worth Donors Nov 09, 2025

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In this donor-focused, data-packed episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by Jon Bergdoll, Interim Director of Data and Research Partnerships at Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, to break down the latest findings from the 2023 Bank of America Study of High Net-Worth Philanthropy. Now in its 20th year, the report offers a close-up on the giving habits of households with $1M+ in investable assets or incomes over $200,000. The numbers tell a nuanced story. While total dollars donated by high-net-worth households remain strong, the percentage of those households giving annually is slipping, a continuation of the “donors down, dollars up” trend seen in the broader population. Volunteering, meanwhile, is bouncing back post-pandemic, now at 43% (up from a 2020 low of 30%) but still below pre-2020 levels. These donors continue to prioritize religion, education, and human services, and they’re increasingly aligning their financial choices, spending and giving alike, with their values. Local impact matters. Over 70% of high-net-worth donors report giving to causes in their own communities, compared to 32% giving nationally and just 13% internationally. Spontaneity still plays a role, roughly 85% of donors say they sometimes or always give when asked or in response to emerging needs, but effectiveness is key. Donors want to know their gifts are making a difference. Use of giving vehicles like donor-advised funds, private foundations, and IRA distributions is slowly rising, with nearly 1 in 5 affluent households now leveraging at least one structured giving mechanism. This year’s report also introduces five philanthropic identities: Steadfast Supporters, Devout Donors, Entrepreneurs, Changemakers, and Philanthropic Experts. These profiles offer fundraisers a practical way to understand donor motivations and tailor outreach accordingly.

Global Philanthropy Environment Index Nov 02, 2025

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In this data-rich, globally-minded episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by researchers Dana Doan, PhD and Afshan Paarlberg, JD to explore the newly released Global Philanthropy Environment Index (GPEI). With contributions from over 170 experts across 95 countries, the GPEI paints a detailed picture of the philanthropic landscape in 15 regions worldwide. Whether you're fundraising in Frankfurt or building a donor base in Barbados, the GPEI offers insight into how policies, tax incentives, socio-cultural dynamics, and cross-border regulations impact your ability to raise funds, and why local context is everything. The GPEI isn’t just a static report, it’s a dynamic toolkit. Dana and Afshan emphasize that the Index is designed to support both policy and practice. It measures six key factors, including the ease of operating a nonprofit, tax incentives for donors, cross-border flows of philanthropy, and the socio-political environment. Want to know what makes it hard to fundraise in one country and easier in another? The GPEI breaks it down, region by region, and even offers expert recommendations for improvement. As Dana puts it, it’s not just about understanding your own environment, it’s about being inspired by what’s working elsewhere. Globally, the report reveals two major trends. First, the good news: cultural and social support for giving remains strong across nearly every region. Generosity is alive and well. The not-so-good news? Cross-border philanthropic flows are tightening, in part due to anti-money laundering regulations and concerns about foreign influence. Meanwhile, tax incentive structures vary wildly, even among neighboring countries, leading to uneven conditions for charitable giving. The report also dives into lasting post-COVID trends and rising priorities like climate philanthropy, offering a timely lens into what’s next for fundraisers and policymakers alike. And it’s not just theory, it’s practice. From new platforms in Africa and Asia to transnational giving initiatives in Europe, the GPEI is already shaping action on the ground. Fundraisers across the globe are using it to make the case for improved infrastructure, smarter regulations, and stronger domestic giving. As Afshan shares, the Index is built on local expertise to ensure every score has context and credibility. Whether you're navigating political shifts or trying to unlock new donor channels, this episode delivers the tools, and the global perspective, to help philanthropy thrive wherever you call home.

Building a Reserve Fund Oct 26, 2025

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In this research-powered, globe-spanning episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. welcomes Craig Furneaux, PhD to unpack the how, why, and how-much of building a reserve fund for nonprofit organizations. With his classic Aussie warmth and academic rigor, Craig takes us behind the scenes of nonprofit finance in Australia, where the accounting system doesn’t distinguish between sectors and the idea of building a reserve fund gets complicated fast. It’s not just about stacking cash, too much in the bank can actually hurt your fundraising case. And if you’re not careful, you could end up with the regulatory equivalent of a boomerang to the head. Dr. Furneaux and his co-author Dr. Renee Irwin went full Sherlock Holmes on this topic, digging into five years of nonprofit income data across multiple sectors and sizes. The result? A treasure trove of insights and a fresh take on the old “three-month rule” for reserves. Spoiler alert: three months might work for medium-sized organizations, but smaller ones? You’re gonna need more, closer to six months, to weather the storm. Large organizations can squeak by with less, thanks to their flexibility and larger safety nets. The key word here? Resiliency. Whether it’s currency drops, funding cuts, or another round of HR legislation chaos, reserve funds are the emergency kit every nonprofit needs before the next metaphorical (or literal) hurricane hits. But it’s not just about the math, it’s about the message. Communicating the need for reserves to donors requires storytelling finesse. Craig suggests analogies that hit home, like prepping for a natural disaster. "We’re not hoarding, we’re being prudent stewards," he explains. The goal? Helping donors understand that a healthy reserve isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifeline. That means it’s up to you, fundraiser friend, to show them why some unspent dollars today could be the reason your doors stay open tomorrow. So how much is just right? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but this episode gives you the tools, and the evidence, to figure it out. Whether you're running a tiny arts nonprofit or a sprawling health system, the research can help you build a solid case for reserves. Start small, aim high, and remember: it's not about fear, it's about foresight. As always, The Fund Raising School is here to equip you with knowledge, strategy, and just the right amount of inspiration (and maybe a little financial jargon translated into plain English). Because resilience isn’t just a buzzword, it’s your mission’s best friend in a crisis.

Women Donors in Seasons of Uncertainty Oct 19, 2025

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In this insightful and timely episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes back Jacqueline Ackerman, Interim Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI), to explore how women navigate charitable giving during times of economic and societal uncertainty. From pandemics to recessions, Jacqueline dives into the resilient giving habits of women donors, and spoiler alert, they don’t just keep giving, they double down when the going gets tough. Based on findings from WPI’s “Women Give 2024” study, Jacqueline highlights how women’s generosity remained remarkably steady across two decades, even as crises came and went. Jacqueline serves up a generous helping of data with a side of real-world implications: women are more likely to give, give more, and spread that generosity across causes; even if it means getting less recognition. But COVID-19, aka “the she-cession,” threw a curveball. While many women were forced to pause their giving due to caregiving and job losses, those who stayed in the donor pool gave more, a testament to their commitment and empathy. And as we emerge into the “new normal,” WPI expects women’s philanthropy to rebound in full force, fueled by loyalty, community care, and an eye on the impact, not the tax deduction. And speaking of taxes, don’t expect them to be a huge motivator here. While male donors may be charmed by a universal charitable deduction, women are looking at who benefits from their gift. Jacqueline reminds fundraisers: if you want to speak to women donors, tell stories about the people they’re helping, not just the perks they're getting. It’s not about the name on the wall, it’s about the family at the food bank. Women give from the heart, not the ledger. And when they care about your mission? They’re not just writing checks, they’re joining boards, bringing their friends, and becoming powerful long-term allies. The episode closes with an important reminder: women give relationally, not transactionally. Whether it's through giving circles, peer-to-peer appeals, or disaster response efforts, women rally around each other and their communities. But as much as the data can guide fundraising strategy, Jacqueline leaves us with a crucial caveat, don’t mistake trends for rules. Every donor is an individual with their own motivations. The research offers a strong starting point, but the magic still happens in the one-on-one conversation.

Next Gen Donors the Inside Story Oct 12, 2025

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In this lively and eye-opening episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., is joined by Rachel Gerrol, founder and CEO of NEXUS Global, and her COO Liza Heavener, to pull back the curtain on the philanthropic habits of Gen Z and millennials. NEXUS Global isn’t just another networking group, it’s a global movement with 6,000 members across 70 countries representing $650 billion in family wealth. What started in a modest UN conference room has become a peer-led, agenda-free space where the next generation of high-impact givers connect, collaborate, and catalyze change. As Rachel puts it, they didn’t plan a movement, but “accidentally birthed” one. Bill dives into the critical takeaway: fundraisers can't afford to keep thinking of millennials as college kids in shared apartments. They're homeowners, parents, and yes, major donors. But here’s the kicker, these next gen donors don’t wait for titles or trust funds to make a difference. Their influence in family philanthropy is real and potent. One heartfelt suggestion from a grandkid can steer six-figure giving. Rachel and Liza emphasize that ignoring these influencers just because their name isn’t on the board is like leaving money, and meaningful connection, on the table. But don’t come at them with your checkbook hand outstretched. Liza and Rachel stress that authenticity and values-alignment are the name of the game. These donors crave genuine relationships, not transactional asks. They want to do philanthropy, rolling up their sleeves at volunteer events, engaging in learning journeys, and sitting at intimate salon dinners, not black-tie galas. And please, ditch the glossy mailers, they’ll hold up that $10 invitation and wonder why you're wasting donor dollars. The advice is golden: ask for advice, and you might get a gift. Ask for a gift right away? You might never hear from them again. The episode wraps with a call to action: nonprofits must evolve not just in how they ask, but in how they operate. Today’s donors look at everything through a values lens, from where you host your gala to how you bottle your water. And forget traditional silos, Gen Z and millennials blur the lines between philanthropy, investing, and entrepreneurship. They’re collaborative, global, and impatient. They want results, impact, and purpose, not pomp and circumstance. So fundraisers, ready or not, the future is here... and it’s bringing a values-based, story-driven, influence-wielding donor with it.

Social Media Fundraising: Messaging Matters Oct 05, 2025

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In this episode of The First Day from The Fundraising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes Abhishek Bhati, Ph.D., Associate Professor at Bowling Green State University, to dive deep into the ever-buzzing world of social media fundraising. Spoiler alert, it’s not just about asking for money. Drawing on fresh research, Dr. Bhati reveals that nonprofits who blend a variety of six message types (instead of hammering the “donate now” button nonstop) can boost their fundraising results by a whopping 96%. That’s nearly doubling your impact just by mixing up your posts. So, what are these six magical message types? Beneficiary stories, mission-focused content, engagement asks, expressions of gratitude, goal attainment updates, and fundraising ask. While asking remains the most frequent (and necessary) message, Dr. Bhati’s research shows that over-reliance on it can lead to donor fatigue faster than you can say “algorithm change.” It turns out donors want to feel part of a story, not just a transaction. The conversation gets even juicier when Bill and Dr. Bhati dig into the science behind why these message types matter. Want more donations? Try publicly thanking donors (which can lift giving by 59%). Need to hit that campaign goal? Posts showing you’re just $50 short create FOMO that can spike donations by 79%. It’s all about creating that “whirlpool effect” of engagement, where your message spreads further and deeper. They wrap with practical tips for fundraisers of all organizational sizes. Don’t have a massive marketing team? No problem. Start by planning posts ahead, use scheduling tools, and lean on your board, volunteers, and existing supporters to build your social media presence. Because as Dr. Bhati reminds us, social media fundraising isn’t a magic bullet, it’s a strategic dance. And when you choreograph your messages well, donors don’t just listen, they leap in.

Missing Our Mid-Level Donors Sep 28, 2025

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In this data-packed and donor-loving episode of The First Day from The Fundraising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes Mark Rovner, JD, Founder of Sea Change Strategies to uncover the goldmine hidden in plain sight: mid-level donors. Nope, not the cast of that sitcom based in Indiana, but the generous souls giving between $1,000 and $10,000 annually who somehow manage to be both incredibly loyal and woefully neglected. Mark unpacks 12 years of research, including the most recent Missing Middle study, revealing that while mid-level donors represent just 1% of a typical donor file, they generate a whopping 30% of fundraising revenue. So who are these mysterious middle givers? Demographically, they’re mostly women, average age 68, overwhelmingly white, and boast net worths north of $1 million. They’re twice as likely as average Americans to volunteer, often have multi-decade giving histories, and more than half plan to leave bequests. But here’s the kicker: most nonprofits still don’t have a formal strategy, or even one staff person, dedicated to nurturing these donors. "There’s no playbook," Mark laments, "and that’s the problem." Rovner and his team have cracked the mid-level code with a psychographic playbook that splits these donors into three distinct segments: “All Business” (set-it-and-forget-it types), “Hands-On” (already engaged to the hilt), and the coveted “Engagement Seekers” (the folks who actually want more from you, and might even increase their giving if you ask nicely). The trick? Behavioral cues like email open rates, event RSVPs, and a good old-fashioned survey. Bill and Mark wrap things up with a call to action that’s part love letter, part strategic roadmap: take stock of your donor pyramid, segment thoughtfully, and assign someone to mid-level stewardship. Because when nurtured properly, these donors don’t just stick around, they step up, give more, and even leave a legacy. As Mark puts it, “Stewardship at scale” is the way forward. If you’re ready to stop missing the middle, the full report is available for free at Sea Change Strategies. And remember, if you're still chasing only major gifts or blasting your annual fund, you're leaving real money, and meaningful relationships, on the table.

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