Givergy

What turns a good fundraiser into a record-breaking success? In this episode, Jazmin Peach chats with fundraising expert Seth Weiner, known as Your Rocktioneer®, about the tools and techniques that supercharge benefit auctions. With over a decade in the fundraising space, Seth has helped nonprofits across the US generate millions through expertly executed events. Blending his background in music and entertainment with deep nonprofit expertise, he's become a go-to auctioneer and consultant for organizations aiming to elevate their donor engagement and fundraising results.Here, Seth shares how to create energy with paddle raises, engage donors effectively, and introduce creative features like the “vacation station.” Packed with real examples and actionable insights, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to raise more at their next event.

If you've ever wondered how to make your auction the highlight of the fundraising calendar—or why everyone keeps talking about the power of a paddle raise—this is the episode for you.In this special Partner Edition of The Secret Guide to Fundraising, Givergy's very own Jazmin is joined by benefit auction royalty: Erin Ward, third-generation auctioneer and founder of Star Benefit Auctions. With a career that's spanned everything from dump trucks to glittering gala nights (seriously), Erin knows exactly how to turn any auction into a powerhouse fundraising moment.Over the course of the episode, Jazmin and Erin dive deep into what makes benefit auctions tick, and what can cause them to tank. Whether you're planning a high-energy gala, school fundraiser, or community event, you'll come away from this conversation with a notepad full of real-world advice and insider know-how.

What makes a fundraising auction truly successful? It's not just about fast-talking bids—it's about storytelling, energy, and creating moments that inspire people to give. In this episode ofThe Secret Guide to Fundraising, we're joined byTiWanna Kenney (TK), founder of Astounding Auctioneers, who has helped raise over$45 million for community causes.TK shares her expert insights on how to prepare for a fundraising event that drives real results, why a great auctioneer is more than just a fast talker, and how the power of storytelling can turn a simple auction into a moment of true generosity. She also reveals what nonprofits can do to make giving as seamless and engaging as possible, ensuring supporters stay connected to their mission long after the event ends.If you're looking to take your fundraising events to the next level, this episode is packed with game-changing advice you won't want to miss.Tune in now!

In this episode of The Secret Guide to Fundraising, host Jordan chats with Anthony Spencer, Event Manager at Help Musicians. With nearly a decade of nonprofit experience—and a unique background as a performer at Disneyland Paris—Anthony shares practical tips for growing your audience and boosting your campaigns. Discover creative strategies for sourcing unconventional venues, balancing digital and in-person engagement, and building strong donor relationships. Whether you're planning intimate gatherings or large-scale events, tune in for expert tips for effective event fundraising that will elevate your events and maximize your impact.

In this episode of The Secret Guide to Fundraising, we launch a new segment spotlighting some of our remarkable partners in the fundraising sector. This week, we delve into transforming traditional donor-fundraiser interactions into meaningful, lasting relationships. Our guest, Steve Yastrow, is a renowned business advisor, speaker, and author of bestselling books including 'Ditch the Pitch', 'Brand Harmony', and 'We: The Ideal Customer Relationship'. With decades of experience helping organizations foster loyalty and build authentic connections, Drawing on his deep understanding of relationship-driven communication, Steve reveals how fundraisers can shift from transactional exchanges to building enduring partnerships. He explains the importance of moving beyond scripted presentations to interactive dialogues that truly engage donors, while offering actionable insights on how to cultivate commitment. With his reputation as a thought leader and trusted advisor to businesses and nonprofits alike, Steve offers a masterclass in how fundraisers can deepen relationships and create lasting impact.

On this episode of The Secret Guide to Fundraising, host Jordan Morris sits down with Loana Valdez, Manager of Community Relations at Kindred, to explore the fundraising landscape of 2024. With nearly a decade of experience in the mission-driven sector, Loana shares her firsthand insights into the challenges nonprofits have faced this year, especially for smaller and medium-sized organizations navigating economic uncertainty. She also discusses the innovative strategies on the horizon for 2025, offering practical tips for nonprofits looking to adapt and thrive. Tune in for expert advice, real-life case studies, and actionable takeaways to help you plan for a successful future in fundraising!

Take a seat, grab your headphones, and get ready—because we're back with another unmissable episode of The Secret Guide to Fundraising!This week, we had the privilege of sitting down with Nikki Kinloch, a nonprofit powerhouse and the CEO of Cure Cancer, to delve into her inspiring journey and groundbreaking achievements during challenging times.Since stepping into the role in 2018, Nikki has led Cure Cancer to extraordinary results: a 158% increase in new donors, a staggering 291% boost in conversions, a 441% surge in new donor growth, and a 104% rise in net profit for the charity. Truly remarkable achievements!In this episode, Nikki shares an in-depth look at the strategies, mindset, and actions that fueled this incredible transformation. Awarded the Governor General Medallion in 2020 for Cure Cancer's impact, Nikki Kinloch leverages her fintech and business expertise from roles at JustGiving and Simply Giving to drive nonprofit success. Today, she shares key insights on leading transformative change. Trust us, this is one conversation you won't want to miss!

In this episode of 'The Secret Guide To Fundraising' we chat with Daniel Strang ​​​​​​who, in 2013, transformed his passion for sports and community into action, organizing a charity boxing event in New Zealand that raised over $25,000 for a local nonprofit. After relocating to Winnipeg, Canada, Daniel expanded the concept and founded Fight For Charity in 2017. The inaugural Canadian event raised an impressive $22,000 with the support of just five sponsors. By last year, the event had grown exponentially, with 75 sponsors contributing to the success and helping it surpass $100,000 raised—all in support of local charities. Tune in today for actionable insights and fresh inspiration for your own fundraising events!

On this week's episode, our host Jordan Morris is joined by renowned philanthropy expert Gail Perry, founder and CEO of Gail Perry Group. Together they delve into the wonderful world of capital campaigns, donor psychology, and mastering the art of the ask. With over 30 years of experience helping nonprofits reach their fundraising goals, Gail Perry is recognized as one of America's Top 20 Fundraising Experts If you're looking to strengthen donor stewardship and build lasting relationships that drive game-changing donations, this episode is for you!

This week's podcast episode explores the best ways of utilizing your event staff to drive more impact at your fundraising events! Joining us to discuss all things staffing, from effective training, to successful fundraising case studies were Founder, CEO of Life Event Staffing, Lauren Batterby and Senior Staffing Manager for KruLive, Patricia Murray. With over 10 years of industry experience, Lauren's expertise lies in fundraising events and silent auction technology. Patricia also has over 10 year's experience in event management and staffing, with a prior 20 year career as a professional performer. Together, there is little Lauren and Patricia do not know about successful events and the role specialist staff play in their delivery. Tune in for a packed conversation filled with expert tips and industry insights helpful for delivering high-impact events.

In this insightful episode of 'The Secret Guide to Fundraising', non-profit experts Julia Campbell and Paul D'Alessandro discuss the complexities facing non-profits amidst evolving donor needs, tech landscapes and social media ethics. Julia and Paul delve into the dual pressures of engaging responsibly on platforms while leveraging them for visibility, shifts in donor behavior, the impact of legislative uncertainty on strategy and the need for a diversified fundraising approach.  Our guests here truly are experts in their field. Paul D'Alessandro founded D'Alessandro, Inc in 1994 and has advised hundreds of clients on non-profit management and capital campaigns ranging in goals from $1 million to multi-billions in his nearly 30-year career.  Julia Campbell is also an acclaimed non-profit expert named as one to follow by both Forbes and LinkedIn. With a mission to 'make the digital world a better place', Julia has helped hundreds of organizations shift to digital thinking. This rich discussion offers practical insights for non-profits navigating 2024's digital dilemmas and fundraising challenges. Do not miss this comprehensive 'State of the Sector' review with two true titans of fundraising!

2024 is a massive year for elections around the world, which can bring a mixture of emotions for fundraisers such as uncertainty, frustration, and hope. These are pressing feelings for both fundraisers and donors, so how can charitable organizations navigate this time when the potential for significant change looms large? On this week's episode of The Secret Guide to Fundraising, we delve into the importance of engaging your local community to ensure continued success and relevance - especially during election years. Joining us for this fascinating chat was Senior Marketing Advisor and President & Chair of Aurora Sports Hall of Fame, Javed Khan. Over the past two decades Javed has dedicated himself to organizations at the heart of his community. From the Aurora and Newmarket Chambers of Commerce, to local baseball teams, to Community Home Assistance for Seniors (CHATS). Javed has consistently worked hard for those in his local area and is well placed to talk about how the local community must be engaged if non-profits are to thrive during turbulent times. Listen in to this important conversation as Javed shares some invaluable wisdom.

This week on the 'The Secret Guide to Fundraising' podcast, we're joined by Cat Content Strategist, Samantha Bell, and Social Media Fundraising Specialist, Emilie Rackovan, to discuss the latest ways non-profits are engaging with the next generation of donors using influencers. Samantha works for Best Friends Animal Society and also serves on the board of Mission Meow, a charity that provides grants to small feline-centric non-profits across the US. She is also a cat content influencer and has amassed over 30,000 followers on Instagram. Emilie also works for Best Friends Animal Society, managing their social media fundraising strategy. Emilie has built a sizeable following of over 320,000 on Instagram through creating engaging animal focused content that follows the story of some of the animals living at her home sanctuary. Inevitably, Samantha and Emilie speak about some incredibly cute animals used in their campaigns, but they also give lots of practical advice for non-profits looking to stand out in a crowded field when trying to engage influencers. Together, we explore the importance of creating mutual value, finding the right storytellers for your cause, and how to make it easy for both parties to collaborate effectively. Listen now, hosted by Ella Jacques, Givergy's Client Services Director.

Welcome to another episode of the Secret Guide to Fundraising. This week we were delighted to talk to Influencer Relations Specialist, Ash Collins! Developing and managing partnerships with donors is a skill that fundraisers have perfected, but the art of applying this craft to influencers is fairly new. Working for Best Friends Animal Society, Ash oversees partnerships and collaborations with social media influencers across all platforms to promote campaigns for the organisation. With influencers becoming an ever more powerful tool for raising awareness, it's worth exploring how non-profits should best use them for their own causes. Best Friends Animal Society work to save animals across the United States through their sanctuaries and life-saving centres. They also collaborate with rescue groups to ensure larger numbers of animals can be rehomed within communities. By working with influencers to elevate their campaigns and connect with people across the country, Best Friends Animal Society are a non-profit finding innovative ways to stand out in a dynamic digital landscape. If you're interested in developing relationships with influencers, making the most of your social media presence or creating a new fundraising strategy that engages young people, then don't miss this episode hosted by Givergy's COO, Ben Crook.

Drawing up a shortlist of potential high impact sponsors for your organisation can be daunting. Who is a good fit? Will their sponsorship lead to meaningful impact? How do you manage the relationship after its inception? Having the right answers to these questions can lead to delivering real change for your organisation and the communities it serves. We're talking to Olivia Baston-Pitt, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Common Goal, about building and maintaining partnerships with key impact sponsors. We discuss how high-impact sponsors can be dovetailed with the power of community collaboration to achieve the remarkable. Common Goal is an organisation that mobilises the football industry to pledge a minimum of 1% of all revenues to drive progress. They team up with high-impact community organisations, 193 of them to be precise, in order to help reshape society into an equal playing field for all. As someone who works primarily on Common Goal's partnership with Adidas, Olivia is well versed in managing big-name, big-impact, sponsors. So listen in as she shares some of her wisdom with Givergy's Global Client Services Director, Ella Jacques.

Join us as we explore the burgeoning relationship between non-profits and influencers with innovator Ashwath Narayanan. Ashwath is CEO and Founder of Social Currant, a business that helps nonprofits, impact organizations & issue-focused organizations collaborate with creators to reach audiences more effectively. Since founding Social Currant in 2020, Ashwath has gone from strength to strength. In 2021, he was listed in DC Inno's 25 Under 25, a list that showcases young people standing up to the daunting challenges our societies face today. The crossroads between fundraising and influencing are still being built, but Ashwath is leading the way. He is well-placed to explore the mechanics of how non-profits can cultivate relationships with influencers, so listen in for the tips and tricks that might help your next campaign go viral.

Joining us in this episode to dive into the world of major gift fundraising is Julie Ordoñez. Julie is a Major Gifts Strategist and Fundraising Coach on a mission to equip leaders with the courage to ask for more and raise multi-billions to solve the world's most pressing issues. With 14 years of experience in major gifts, Julie was a top 1% performer at United Way of Greater Los Angeles among 90 FTEs, and at LIFT. Julie also helped New Story raise $2.5M in her first 12 months in the role in 2022. She has coached and trained over 200 nonprofit executives and major gifts teams since 2018 and is the founder of CourageLab, a 6-week major gifts training for leaders to get the courage and strategy to ask for more. In short, there are few better brains to pick on the topic of major gifts. So sit back and listen as Julie shares some of her invaluable wisdom with Givergy's COO Ben Crook.

In this episode, we're delighted to be talking to Cure Cancer's Head of Gaming and Streaming, Shane Bailey, about the immense potential gaming has as a fundraising strategy. Head of Gaming and Streaming is not a job title many people would associate with the non-profit sector. However, Shane has worked in this role for the past two years demonstrating that there is huge opportunity for non-profits to engage new audiences and raise significant funds - if they interact sincerely with the gaming community. In just four years, since they ventured into gaming and streaming, Cure Cancer's fundraising revenue has dramatically increased from 0% to on track for 20% this financial year! Listen in as Shane explains how a non-profit can make gaming a viable fundraising stream, and shares his own journey into this space.

The fundraising industry is subject to the effects of Ai just like all other sectors. How can you stay on top of the trends? On this episode of our podcast, we're chatting with John Roberts who has been in the fundraising industry for close to 10 years. Having spent time working with Givergy, he focuses on supporting non-profits with data mining using powerful AI tools and helping to increase donor engagement and donations. Join us on this podcast episode as we explore the power of AI, breaking down the myths and sharing advice on how you could be utilizing these tools for your non-profit.

Gala dinners are a cornerstone fundraising event in the calendars of many charitable organizations. They're some of the biggest and most expensive to host, but what exactly does it take to raise funds and make profit? Join us on this episode of our podcast with Katie Pappas, Executive Director at A Kid Again as we explore all that goes into producing an incredible gala. We'll explore what's needed before, during, and after the event to ensure your donors are engaged, donations are made, and your charity makes a healthy ROI. Whether you're part of a large or small organisation, tune in for some amazing personal stories and advice.

The fundraising industry is changing and rapidly! How can non-profits keep up with change while reaching their goals? On this episode of our podcast, we're discussing the latest trends and innovations in fundraising with Paul D'Alessando, a veteran fundraiser and consultant. We'll explore how leveraging data tools and artificial intelligence can enhance fundraising efforts and put your organisation ahead of the curve. Tune in to learn how to get started!

Chuck Mutz a leading auctioneer and fundraising host in the USA who uses his experience in the Deep South to help non-profits raise more funds. Join us on this episode of our podcast to learn how Chuck engages guests creatively at fundraising events. We'll delve into his personal success stories and discuss the opportunities available for fundraisers to make a greater impact. Tune in for some fundraising inspiration to use at our next event!

We believe storytelling is the best way to get donors to support to a cause, but what does that look like in a rapidly changing digital age? In this episode of our podcast, we're joined by published fundraising author and nonprofit digital consultant Julia Campbell. We'll discuss how effective storytelling and leveraging digital channels can help non-profits connect with donors on a deeper level and create a sense of emotional investment in their cause. Tune in to hear firsthand experiences and tips for success

If your non-profit is struggling to bring in donations, an appeal moment at your next fundraising event might just be the thing you need to reach your goal. In this episode of our podcast, Harry Santa-Olalla, an energetic fundraising host who has mastered the appeal moment, shares his secrets on how to get more people to give at events. We'll explore the psychology of giving, the importance of storytelling and what to look for in a fundraising host that will increase donations. Tune in for some insights that will enhance your fundraising efforts!

With so many non-profits fundraising for similar causes these days, should they work together or compete for the same donor? Join us on this episode of our podcast as we explore this taboo topic with Paul D'Alessando, a veteran fundraiser and consultant. We'll dive into the benefits and challenges of collaboration, what works for a long-term strategy, and some alternative models of partnership. Tune in to hear insightful perspectives on impact, efficiency, and how to raise more funds.

Before Christmas we held an educational webinar with Emily where she talked about her upcoming task of hosting 10 events across 10 cities on one night, celebrating Unicef @ 75. We're delighted that both Emily and Harry, who was on stage leading the charge for Unicef in New York, joined us on our latest podcast to discuss how the event went and the key learnings they took from such a mammoth night of fundraising.

Formerly a member of the 90's English pop band Scarlet, Jo Youle has been CEO of Missing People for over eight years. During that time she received the Third Sector Award for 'Rising Chief Executive' and recognised as a 'Top CEO' by Social CEO's in 2015 and 2016. We were lucky enough to have Jo as a guest on our podcast, speaking about her unique route into non-profit leadership and how young people can be supported in leadership positions. Jo also covers charity learnings from the pandemic and the story behind the Missing People Choir's journey on Britain's Got Talent. This is a ranging interview exploring topics for fundraisers and executives, so don't miss out!

The pandemic has been taxing on most people's well-being, with plenty of challenges to work through over the past 18 months. To discuss this in more detail we were very lucky to have Debi Roberts, CEO of The Ollie Foundation, join us for an incredibly personal episode of Game Changers. Debi is an international speaker, author and has been CEO of The Ollie Foundation for over three years. In this episode, Debi talks openly about mental health and illness, including tips for how people can begin tackling issues that may be smothering them. In addition, Debi speaks from her own position as a non-profit CEO on what life has been like during the pandemic and how the organisation has coped with those challenges.

Here you'll find best practice examples, top tips and creative tales about how it is possible to secure your dream corporate partnership! Rob has helped train more than 18,000 fundraisers during a career spanning over 20 years. So, if you're looking to transform your major donor or corporate partnerships, this is the conversation for you!

Prepare yourself for all things transformation as we discuss how charities can harness the power of technology to deliver change, as well as the broader shifts happening in third sector culture. For this episode we're joined by Manifesto's Transformation Director, Lou Lai. Somehow Lou manages to balance this role with being a Board of Trustees member of Blood Cancer UK, and a founder of FemMentored. Her insights from over 12 years in the social impact sector are fascinating and if you are interested in charity for the 21st Century, this is the podcast for you!

This episode is certainly one for the fundraisers as we explore campaign messaging, how to utilise the resources you actually possess and even the fundraising potential of puppies! Tracey has been working with charities in Canada for over two decades, helping them to understand what they can't do, as well as expanding their visions of what is possible. Previously a broadcaster, Tracey is well versed in the art of effective messaging and she brings all of that experience to our podcast. We were lucky to have her on and know that if you're planning your latest campaign, you need to hear this.

On this week's podcast, Fundraising Everywhere's co-founder, Nikki Bell, joins us to talk inclusion, breaking down barriers and how the fundraising space can better facilitate the flourishing of all people – not just the privileged few! This is an especially open and honest conversation about how progress can be forged in the sector. Nikki's journey in the sector spans over a decade and the ground that they've already broken is truly amazing. This episode just isn't to be missed!

How important is purpose? What does institutional change for non-profits look like? How can charities develop after the pandemic? These are just some of the questions addressed this week as we are joined by Stephen George. Stephen is the former Vice President of the Institute of Fundraising and has over 35 years of experience within the fundraising industry. Listen in for an interesting discussion on the importance of confidence and culture shifts to ensuring development post pandemic!

For this week's episode we were delighted to be joined by CEO of the charity Bloody Good Period, Gabby Edlin. Tune in as we explore effective campaigning tips specifically for marginalised issues, menstrual equity, strategies for a new kind of leadership and much more. Gabby has been named one of Evening Standard's Progress 1000 Top Changemakers as well as Stylist's Woman of the Week, she is constantly committed to affecting positive change and we're sure you'll finish this episode feeling inspired!

This latest podcast is a deeper dive into our key learnings on virtual events, with advice from the front line! 2020 has now seen us support over 100 virtual events and over 700 online campaigns, raising close to $50m USD. Throughout the year we’ve been learning and adapting to our new fundraising environment, and along with our clients, have taken some valuable lessons on board. So in this podcast we’ve asked four members from our brilliant Operations team to join us, share best practices and discuss all things virtual in 2020.

Virtual Events are quickly becoming a significant part of the new fundraising environment, and getting the key moments right is crucial when hosting a successful campaign. In this episode, alongside our special guest Layne The Auctionista, we explore the best ways to run a Fund-A-Need or Pledge Drive moment.

Fundraising is fast evolving in our new landscape and as such we explore six different ways to run a virtual gala event, from simple zoom events to studio productions. Drawing on years of experience as a fundraising host and consultant, the brilliant Sherry Trulhar (Red Apple Auctions) joins as our special guest to help review each option and discuss pros and cons.

Two very special guests, Beth Archer, Executive Director at Agriinstitute and Jessica Helyar, Event Director and owner Conker Events, will be revealing how to successfully execute an online fundraising campaign. They have transformed traditional fundraising techniques from their psychical events to suit our new virtual environment. Join us to ensure you don’t let these years' planned fundraising initiatives go to waste!

Fundraising doesn’t and shouldn’t stop during these difficult times, so this episode focuses on the top 5 things you can do during the COVID-19 outbreak! In this episode, we are joined by an extra special guest, Stephanie Thomas, a fundraising expert and consultant based in New York City.

From not asking enough, to cutting corners in infrastructure, this episode covers the common mistakes fundraises can make and how you can avoid them. With a special feature from Stephen Mally, Director at FundraisingForce!

It’s our mission to keep innovating and introducing new ideas and concepts so that non-profits can continue to raise more money at events and online. We’ve listened to feedback from our clients and are very excited to be the first to introduce some incredible new features to the market. This podcast will cover our new integrated ticketing system, turning losing bids into donations and how your supporters can help by paying your payment fee!