Embracing the Subscription Model in Nonprofit Giving
Donor counts are dropping—even as giving hits record highs.This isn’t just a headline. It’s the reality I unpacked with Dave Raley on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.We dove into why recurring giving is the bright spot in a shifting landscape—and why too many nonprofits still treat it like an afterthought. For years, I thought monthly giving was just for “big” organizations or required fancy tech. Dave’s insights (and his book, The Rise of Sustainable Giving) showed me: any nonprofit can build a thriving program by focusing on real connection and community.Take a listen.Guest: Dave Raley, Founder & CEO, Imago ConsultingResources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.
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Drawing a Line Between Fundraiser and Donor
Ever felt like your donor relationships are turning into guilt trips?After nearly 30 years in major gifts, I’ve seen how easy it is for the line between professionalism and friendship to blur.One story still sticks with me: a fundraiser got so close to a donor, she couldn’t bring herself to ask for support. The result? The mission lost out.Here’s the truth: 70% of donors say their relationship with the fundraiser influences their giving decisions. But when things get too personal, it can lead to guilt, hesitation, and even burnout. I’ve been there—and I know many of you have, too.So, where should we draw the line? How do we build trust and connection—without sacrificing our mission or our own well-being?If you’ve ever wrestled with these questions, you’re not alone. I just dropped a new episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast diving deep into this very topic. I share real stories, practical strategies, and tools you can use to keep your donor relationships professional and impactful.Curious how to protect your role, your donors, and your organization—without losing your heart?Listen to the latest episode and share it with your team. Let’s start a conversation that every nonprofit leader needs to have.Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.
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Bold Fundraising During Tumultuous Times
Donor hesitation is NOT your cue to retreat.I’ve seen firsthand how economic storms can freeze even the boldest fundraisers—but I’ve also watched organizations thrive by leaning in, not pulling back. In my latest episode, I share real stories, actionable strategies, and a few hard-won lessons to help you fundraise with confidence—even when the ground feels shaky.What’s your go-to move when uncertainty hits—do you wait it out or double down with intention?Listen in to this episode, share it with your team, and let’s stay bold, stay connected, and stay intentional.Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.
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Ten Toes Down: Building Bold, Inclusive Philanthropy in Uncertain Times
Have you ever felt like your organization is stuck in the same old fundraising routines, even as the world around us demands more courage and authenticity? I’ve been there too. That’s why my recent conversation with the brilliant Maia McGill hit home—her story of moving from “checking the DEI box” to building truly inclusive philanthropy is both eye-opening and deeply relatable. Maia’s journey reminded me of the power (and the risk) of standing “ten toes down” for equity, even when it’s uncomfortable. She doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges—she’s seen organizations retreat or “scrub” their DEI commitments out of fear. But she also shares how real change happens: by centering the voices that matter, budgeting for inclusion, and refusing to let fear drive our decisions.What would it look like if your board meetings and donor relationships reflected the full diversity and lived experiences of your community? 🤔If you’re ready to reimagine what’s possible in your fundraising—and want practical, honest advice from someone who’s walked the walk—listen to this episode and share it with your colleagues. Let’s build a future for philanthropy that’s bold, inclusive, and transformational.Guest: Maia McGill, Founder, Inclusive Philanthropy Institute / CEO, Maia McGill Consulting / Advocate for Marginalized Communities / Faculty, Modern Institute for Charitable GivingResources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.
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The Slow Fundraising Movement: Depth Over Speed
In this episode of the Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Kravinchuk to talk about why philanthropy is so important for everyone. We also chatted about the upcoming Western Canada Fundraising Conference, and I loved hearing David describe what makes it so unique—from its warm, intimate community feel to the practical, hands-on sessions attendees can look forward to.David introduced me to the idea of the "slow fundraising movement," which is inspired by the slow food movement. He explained how taking time to build deeper relationships and communicate thoughtfully with donors can really transform our fundraising efforts. As we talked, we explored how the world of fundraising is evolving, and why it’s so crucial to focus on building lasting, meaningful connections with donors instead of just chasing numbers.We also discussed the impact of community-driven fundraising and why embracing a more intentional approach—one that includes self-care and prioritizes genuine relationships—can make such a difference. It was such an inspiring conversation, and I hope it encourages you to slow down, connect more deeply, and truly appreciate the people who make our work possible.Guest: David Kravinchuk, Philanthropy Firebrand, The Common Good fundraising agencyResources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.
Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast. I'm your host, Tammy Zonker, and I'm thrilled you're here.
I've spent nearly three decades specializing in major gifts. I’ve seen how major gifts often form the backbone of an organization’s financial stability, and yet, I know many of us find this area particularly challenging. Time and again, I’ve been approached by fundraisers and nonprofit leaders eager to establish or supercharge their major gift programs. It’s become crystal clear that there’s a growing hunger for training and expertise in this area.
I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with nonprofits from all around the world helping organizations collectively raise nearly one billion dollars. During this time, I’ve developed strategies and tools that have consistently helped organizations transition their mid-level donors into major donors through meaningful engagement. It’s a process that, when done consistently, can truly catapult an organization’s major gift fundraising to the next level.
Whether you’re a seasoned major gift officer looking to refine your approach, a development director aiming to build a powerhouse program, an executive director looking to scale your organization’s capacity for transformational giving, or a board member seeking to understand the transformative potential of major gifts, The Intentional Fundraiser podcast is your source for growth and excellence in major gift fundraising.
So, buckle up! We're about to embark on a journey to take your major gift program to the next level – and beyond. Let's get intentional about major gift fundraising!
Keep transforming,
Tammy Zonker
Major Gift Expert & Keynote Speaker
Fundraising Transformed
#ScaleRaiseDo
New Zealand