14. Local Action, Global Stewardship - A Conversation with Mitzi Perdue

02/10/25 • 28 min

In this heartfelt episode of Non-Profit North Stars with Jim Eskin, we are joined by Mitzi Perdue, an extraordinary humanitarian and advocate for Ukraine. From her deep involvement in providing mental health support through the "Healing Hidden Wounds" project to her visionary approach to global philanthropy, Mitzi shares the inspiring story of her journey. With her unique perspective as a writer, activist, and fundraiser, Mitzi sheds light on the importance of thinking big and making a meaningful impact, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Key Takeaways:

The Role of Mental Health in Crisis: Learn about Mitzi’s “Healing Hidden Wounds” initiative and how innovative methods are being used to provide emergency psychological aid to victims of war crimes in Ukraine.
Tackling Human Trafficking: Understand the pervasive dangers vulnerable populations face in war zones and Mitzi’s work to bring awareness and solutions to this crisis.
Philanthropy in Action: Discover how Mitzi connects her passion for global issues with sustainable fundraising strategies and what lessons she shares for effective nonprofit leadership.
The Power of Partnerships: Explore how collaboration with organizations like the United Nations could scale impactful projects across the globe.
Leadership Lessons from Life: Gain insights from Mitzi’s reflections on humility, mentorship, and the wisdom of her late husband, Frank Perdue.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about global humanitarian efforts, leadership, and making a lasting impact. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true North Star.

Key Takeaways:

The Role of Mental Health in Crisis: Learn about Mitzi’s “Healing Hidden Wounds” initiative and how innovative methods are being used to provide emergency psychological aid to victims of war crimes in Ukraine.
Tackling Human Trafficking: Understand the pervasive dangers vulnerable populations face in war zones and Mitzi’s work to bring awareness and solutions to this crisis.
Philanthropy in Action: Discover how Mitzi connects her passion for global issues with sustainable fundraising strategies and what lessons she shares for effective nonprofit leadership.
The Power of Partnerships: Explore how collaboration with organizations like the United Nations could scale impactful projects across the globe.
Leadership Lessons from Life: Gain insights from Mitzi’s reflections on humility, mentorship, and the wisdom of her late husband, Frank Perdue.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about global humanitarian efforts, leadership, and making a lasting impact. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true North Star.

Previous Episode

13. Mentorship and Mission: John Donohue’s 40 Years of Guiding Nonprofit Excellence

In this inspiring 13th episode of Non-Profit North Stars with Jim Eskin, we honor the incredible journey of John Donohue, Vice President for College Advancement at The College of New Jersey. With a career spanning over four decades, John has mentored countless professionals and transformed the fundraising and advancement landscape. From adapting to diverse regional nonprofit cultures to fostering authentic donor relationships, John shares the wisdom and strategies behind his extraordinary impact. Nominated by Brett Davidson, John’s legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service exemplifies what it means to be a true North Star.

Key Takeaways:

Mentorship Matters: Learn how mentorship shapes nonprofit leadership and how to seek out the right mentor for your career.
Authenticity in Fundraising: Discover why building authentic connections is more impactful than mastering technical skills.
Adapting to Change: Gain insights into embracing change in nonprofit cultures and regions to achieve greater success.
Overcoming Solicitation Fears: Shift your mindset from “selling” to “sharing” to approach donors with genuine passion and purpose.
Retention Strategies: Explore how flexibility, respect, and competitive compensation keep high-performing staff motivated.
Supporting Regional Institutions: Understand how local colleges and nonprofits play a critical role in creating opportunities for underserved communities.

Join us as we celebrate the leadership, wisdom, and generosity of John Donohue, a beacon of inspiration in the nonprofit sector.

Next Episode

15. Keeping Fundraisers Fundraising: Insights on Retention and Leadership with Sally Bryant

In this thought-provoking 15th episode of Non-Profit North Stars with Jim Eskin, we sit down with Sally Bryant, CEO of the Bryant Group, to tackle the critical issue of fundraiser retention in the nonprofit sector. With decades of expertise in recruiting and coaching advancement professionals, Sally offers actionable strategies for building strong organizational cultures, hiring smarter, and investing in leadership development.

Join us as we delve into the causes behind the high turnover rates among fundraisers, the importance of creating a culture of philanthropy, and how exceptional leadership can transform organizations and careers. Nominated by Alexander H. Jones, PhD, MBA, Sally is a true North Star whose wisdom and guidance continue to shape the future of nonprofit fundraising.

Key Takeaways:

The Retention Crisis: Explore why 51% of fundraisers plan to leave their nonprofit within two years and how organizations can address burnout and turnover.
Three Pillars of Retention: Learn Sally’s framework of “Be Better, Hire Better, Invest Better” to create a workplace fundraisers want to stay in.
Leadership Development: Discover why investing in leadership training and mentorship is vital for retaining and promoting high-performing fundraising professionals.
Culture of Philanthropy: Understand the importance of integrating philanthropy into the organization’s core mission and the role of leadership in fostering this culture.
Gender and Diversity in Fundraising: Gain insights into the evolving composition of the fundraising workforce and the need for greater diversity at all levels.
Leadership’s Role in Higher Education: Hear why supporting institutions of higher learning is critical and how effective leadership shapes the future of education.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with actionable advice for nonprofit leaders and professionals committed to creating lasting impact.