How Successful Nonprofits Build Community and Fundraise for Growth

Unlock the secret to turning event attendees into loyal monthly donors with Episode 14 of "Hey Nonprofits"! Hosted by Trevor Nelson and featuring fundraising expert Dave Raley, this episode dives into a step-by-step blueprint that nonprofits can use to create sustainable donor relationships. If you're tired of hosting events that generate one-time contributions but fail to build long-term support, this conversation is what your organization needs to hear.

In this episode, Trevor Nelson and Dave Raley explore how nonprofits can shift their fundraising strategy to maximize the value of every single event attendee. Discover the mindset, tools, and technology that transform event engagement into consistent monthly giving—and why this approach has become essential for nonprofits in 2025. From cultivating meaningful post-event communication to structuring monthly giving programs that resonate with modern donors, you'll walk away with actionable ideas designed to increase retention and build a dependable base of loyal supporters.

Dave Raley shares insights on leveraging storytelling to highlight impact, using data to understand donor motivations, and making communication feel personalized at every stage of the donor journey. Whether you're an executive director, a development coordinator, or a volunteer ready to make a bigger impact, this episode reveals how to blend practical tactics with heartfelt connection to create a strategy for sustainable growth.

Listen to real-world examples of organizations that successfully turned single-event contributors into lifelong supporters while addressing common challenges nonprofits face in maintaining donor loyalty. Also, hear about the subtle details in event follow-ups, how to use technology without losing the human touch, and what shifts are reshaping donor expectations in today’s digital age.

Don’t let your hard work on events end at the closing remarks. Discover how to engage attendees long after the event ends, and turn exciting moments into lasting impact for your nonprofit. With the tips shared in this podcast, you'll inspire deeper connections with your audience, enhance their trust, and see your donor base grow like never before.

Find Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/draley/

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Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to Sustainable Fundraising Strategies

0:05 Why Monthly Donations Are Key for Long-Term Success

2:03 How the Subscription Model is Changing Donations

5:59 Expert Insights on Building Sustainable Giving Campaigns

7:54 Overcoming Challenges in Starting Monthly Giving Programs

11:44 The 75% Missed Opportunity in Recurring Donations

13:47 Using Live Events to Boost Monthly Donor Sign-Ups

17:33 Recent Campaign Success: Transforming Donors into Loyal Supporters

19:26 Treating Donors Like Investors to Build Stronger Relationships

22:50 How to Keep Donors Engaged and Subscribed

24:45 Communicating Impact to Overcome Donor Hesitations

28:30 Creating Effective and Trustworthy Recurring Donation Programs

30:22 Using Creative Program Names to Elevate Branding

33:54 Turning Event Attendees into Recurring and Legacy Donors

35:41 Building Donor Communities for Long-Lasting Support

39:21 Promoting Year-Round Philanthropy for Greater Impact

41:04 Leveraging AI and Marketing Strategies for Fundraising Growth

44:41 Identifying and Maximizing Your Organization’s Strengths

46:39 Focusing on Progress: A Unique Look at Growth in Fundraising

49:59 Why Gratitude and Communication Matter in Donor Relationships

51:35 Leveraging LinkedIn to Build Fundraising Connections and Community