Inspired Fundraising - Build Relationships with Program Teams

For too many fundraising teams, there isn't enough time spent working with those who are doing the mission work.

It was my second day on the job.

The head of street outreach for our organization that served unhoused youth invited me to the teams weekly meeting. It would be an opportunity to introduce myself as the new head of fundraising and get to know the team.

The meeting was wonderful. I ended up being with them for 90 minutes. The team leader walked me out and thanked me profusely for spending so much time with the team. He told me that was the most time anyone in fundraising had ever spent with the team.

What?

If you’re in nonprofit fundraising, spend a lot of time with those on your program teams. Get to know them. Build relationships with them.

This benefits everyone. When fundraisers and program team members are in relationship, the mission is stronger and fundraising is stronger.

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Take a risk. Be of service. Support your friends and colleagues. Be kind.

New book suggestion for nonprofit fundraisers!

I’m reading “Thankology” by Lisa Sargent! I highly recommend this for colleagues and clients in nonprofit fundraising, nonprofit leadership, or those on nonprofit boards.

Upcoming nonprofit fundraising conferences:

Grant Summit October 30 - November 2, 2025

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference November 13 -15, 2025

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