Nonprofit411 Podcast

The Fundraising System with Matt Bregman | Nonprofit411

In this episode of Nonprofit411, Sarah Barton welcomes Matt Bregman, founder of The Fundraising System, to explore the essential elements of building a sustainable and effective fundraising strategy. Matt shares his journey as an "accidental fundraiser" and how his experiences shaped his approach to helping nonprofits establish clear systems for donor cultivation and engagement.
Key highlights include practical tips for small to mid-sized nonprofits, how to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals, and why generosity and relationship-building are at the heart of successful development work. Matt also introduces The Fundraising System, a resource to guide organizations in creating structured, measurable, and impactful fundraising processes.
Resources:
The Fundraising System: www.thefundraisingsystem.com
Connect with Matt Bregman:
Email: matt@thefundraisingsystem.com
LinkedIn: Matthew Bregman on LinkedIn
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: Nonprofit411 Grant Guide

Lessons from a Lifetime in Nonprofits with Steve Eckman | Nonprofit411

In this episode of Nonprofit411, Sarah Barton sits down with Steve Eckman, Chancellor of York University and Interim President of Bethany College, to discuss his decades-long career in nonprofit leadership and the evolution of fundraising strategies. Drawing from his experiences in higher education and foundation work, Steve shares invaluable insights into building sustainable nonprofits, navigating donor relationships, and adapting to changing donor expectations in a technology-driven world.
Key topics include the importance of aligning missions with donor priorities, leveraging technology for accountability, and fostering meaningful relationships with donors. Steve also reflects on the challenges and opportunities for new fundraisers, emphasizing the importance of people-centric approaches in a sector increasingly shaped by digital interactions.
Resources:
York University: www.york.edu
Bethany College: www.bethanylb.edu
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: Nonprofit411 Grant Guide

Strategic Planning for Nonprofits with Ricky Chilcott | Nonprofit411

In this episode of Nonprofit411, Sarah Barton is joined by Ricky Chilcott, co-founder of Mission Met, to discuss how nonprofits can transform their approach to strategic planning. Ricky shares insights into building effective strategies, setting measurable goals, and using innovative tools like Kazi to track progress and improve organizational impact.
Drawing from his experience in software development and nonprofit consulting, Ricky highlights the importance of aligning plans with mission and vision while leveraging data to inform decisions. Whether it’s creating process-driven goals or adapting to capacity challenges, this episode equips nonprofits with the tools and mindset to succeed.
 
Resources:
Mission Met: www.missionmet.com
Causey Software: www.causey.app
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: Nonprofit411 Grant Guide

Fiscal Fitness for Nonprofits with Joseph Scarano | Nonprofit411 Podcast

In this episode of Nonprofit411, Sarah Barton sits down with Joseph Scarano, CEO of Araize, to discuss the often-overlooked but essential topic of fiscal management for nonprofits. With over 40 years of experience in nonprofit financial software and consulting, Joseph shares actionable insights on how nonprofits can achieve financial sustainability through sound fiscal practices.
Key topics include the importance of diversified funding streams, the need for proper tools and systems to ensure accurate financial reporting, and how to navigate nonprofit-specific accounting requirements. Joseph also explains how integrating accounting, payroll, and fundraising systems can save nonprofits time and resources while ensuring compliance with reporting standards. This episode is packed with valuable advice for nonprofit leaders looking to strengthen their financial foundation.
Resources:
Araize Software Solutions: www.araize.com
Explore nonprofit accounting, fundraising, and payroll solutions.
Nonprofit Financial Management YouTube Channel: Araize YouTube
Learn key concepts in nonprofit accounting and fiscal management.
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: Nonprofit411 Grant Guide

Insights from a Funder with Marian Clowes | Nonpofit411 Podcast

In this episode of Nonprofit411, host Sarah Barton speaks with Marian Clowes, Associate Director of the Sisters Health Foundation, to uncover the funder’s perspective on nonprofit grant-seeking and capacity building. With over two decades of experience in nonprofit and foundation work, Marian offers invaluable advice on how nonprofits can strengthen relationships with funders, avoid mission drift, and create impactful projects.
Key insights include the importance of trust-based philanthropy, how to plan projects that align with funders’ priorities, and why nonprofits should focus on capacity building to ensure long-term sustainability. Marian emphasizes the power of collaboration, communication, and intentionality to maximize nonprofit impact while staying true to their mission.
Resources:
Sisters Health Foundation: www.sistershealthfdn.org
Explore grant opportunities and research data on health and community needs in West Virginia and Ohio.
Candid’s Free Grant-Seeking Resources: www.candid.org
Access modules and materials for improving grant-seeking strategies.
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: Nonprofit411 Grant Guide

Evolve and Thrive at the Nonprofit Marketing Summit with Candace Cody | Nonprofit411 Podcast

In this episode of Nonprofit411, Sarah Barton welcomes back Candace Cody, Director of Events at Community Boost, to discuss the upcoming Nonprofit Marketing Summit, themed "Evolve." This marks the 10th summit in the series and promises to be one of the most impactful yet. Candace and Sarah explore how the summit provides nonprofit professionals with tools and strategies to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of 2025, emphasizing technology's role while respecting timeless nonprofit principles. The summit will feature diverse sessions, world-class speakers like Deepak Chopra and Neil Patel, and fun, themed stages inspired by decades like the 70s, 80s, and 2000s.
We discuss:
Evolving Nonprofits: Adapting to the digital-first world post-COVID while balancing foundational nonprofit principles.
The Summit's Impact: Offering free and accessible resources to nonprofit professionals and creating spaces for learning, connection, and growth.
Ripple Mapping: A unique session Sarah is hosting that captures and visualizes the ripple effects of nonprofits’ work.
Ready to join this transformative event?
Grab your free registration here to attend the live sessions
Upgrade to Experience Plus with $300 Discount for exclusive content, 80+ session recordings, and some fun swag! Don’t miss your chance to take your nonprofit to the next level.
The Nonprofit Marketing Summit is happening March 4-6, and you’ll want to be there! Visit the links to secure your spot today.
 

Fostering Donor-Centric Fundraising: Insights with Lynne Wester | Nonprofit411

In this engaging episode of Nonprofit411, host Sarah Barton sits down with Lynne Wester, founder of the Donor Relations Group and co-host of the podcast Fundraising is Funny. Lynne shares her unique approach to creating donor-focused fundraising strategies, inspired by her experience at Disney, to ensure donors feel valued and appreciated. Together, they discuss the importance of gratitude, intentionality, and finding joy in nonprofit work to build lasting donor relationships and sustainable fundraising practices.
Lynne highlights practical strategies, including being intentional about donor engagement, prioritizing gratitude to drive retention, and celebrating donors’ behavior beyond just the amount they give. Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or new to the field, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to transform your approach to donor relations.
 
Resources:
Donor Relations Guru Group: www.donorrelations.com
Fundraising is Funny Podcast: www.fundraisingisfunny.com
Book Recommendation – Give and Take by Adam Grant: Insights into the power of generosity and its impact on relationships.
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: Nonprofit411 Grant Guide

Empowering Communities: Building Sustainable Change with A-Nya Badger | Nonprofit411 Podcast

Sarah Barton hosts A-Nya Badger, Community Democracy Coordinator at Fairshake Environmental Legal Services, to explore the power of community-driven nonprofit initiatives. A-Nya shares her experiences in fostering equitable change, emphasizing the importance of centering community voices, building genuine relationships, and creating sustainable projects. She provides practical insights for nonprofits on how to align their goals with the needs of the communities they serve while ensuring long-term impact and resilience.
Key Takeaways
Community-centered approaches are crucial for sustainable change. Listening to and following the lead of community members ensures projects address their true priorities.
Building trust and fostering genuine relationships with communities is essential to avoid being perceived as an outsider imposing solutions.
Sustainability requires planning for long-term impact, such as skill-building and creating enduring funding sources, rather than relying on short-term grants.
Reciprocity strengthens partnerships—nonprofits should find ways to give back to the community partners and stakeholders supporting their initiatives.
Strong administrative foundations are vital to ensure nonprofits stay organized and compliant, enabling them to focus on impactful work.
Resources
Fairshake Environmental Legal Services: fairshake-els.org
A-Nya Badger: abadger@fairshake-els.org
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: nonprofit411.info/grantproposal
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other nonprofit professionals. Visit www.nonprofit411.org for more resources to help your organization build a sustainable fundraising strategy.

From Passion to Full-Time Impact in Nonprofit Work with Laura Bonnell | Nonprofit 411 Podcast

In this episode of Nonprofit411, Sarah Barton sits down with Laura Bonnell, CEO of The Bonnell Foundation, to discuss her journey from journalist to full-time nonprofit founder. The Bonnell Foundation, dedicated to supporting families affected by cystic fibrosis, has grown from a volunteer-driven effort to an organization that now employs seven people and continues to expand its impact both locally and globally. Laura shares insights on building authentic relationships, the importance of financial transparency, and the power of perseverance and generosity in nonprofit work. For Laura, saying "yes" has led to profound connections, support, and opportunities, shaping the foundation’s mission in ways she never expected.
 
Key Takeaways:
Building strong relationships and connections within the community is foundational to nonprofit growth.
Perseverance in funding efforts can yield significant returns, even if they take time.
Strategic financial planning and transparency are essential to sustainable growth and effective resource management.
Saying “yes” opens doors to unforeseen opportunities that can drive your organization forward in ways you may not anticipate.
 
Resources:
The Bonnell Foundation – https://www.thebonnellfoundation.org
Email The Bonnell Foundation – thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com
Nonprofit411 - http://www.nonprofit411.org
Grant Writing Proposal Guide – https://nonprofit411.info/grantproposal
 
#nonprofit411 #cysticfibrosis #fundraising #communityimpact #perseverance

Embracing Classic Fundraising Techniques with Tim Johnson | Nonprofit 411 Podcast

In this episode of Nonprofit411, host Sarah Barton sits down with Tim Johnson, Director of Development at World Venture and Senior Principal at Park Bench Fundraising Strategist, to explore how nonprofits can return to the basics of fundraising with genuine relationship-building. Tim, a seasoned fundraiser and member of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas, shares valuable insights from his decades-long career, emphasizing the power of sincere gratitude, understanding donors’ values, and creating authentic connections. His advice provides a refreshing look at how nonprofit professionals can engage supporters in ways that foster long-term commitment and trust.
Key Takeaways:
Donors give because of who they are, not who the organization is; building relationships rooted in genuine connection is key to sustainable funding.
A foundation of gratitude, through personalized gestures like handwritten notes, strengthens the bond between nonprofits and their supporters.
Nonprofits should revisit “old-school” basics to balance modern fundraising tools, creating a holistic approach that integrates both heart and strategy.
Resources:
Park Bench Fundraising Strategist: https://www.parkbenchfundraising.com
WorldVenture: https://www.worldventure.com
Nonprofit411: www.nonprofit411.org
Grant Writing Proposal Guide: https://nonprofit411.info/grantproposal
 
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow nonprofit professionals. Visit Nonprofit411 for more resources to help your organization build a sustainable fundraising and grant writing strategy.
#nonprofit411 #fundraising #donorrelations #sustainablegiving #nonprofitstrategy #communityimpact