Major Gifts Fundraiser

SummaryPart two of Clark’s practical “Lessons Learned” series—from an old slide deck that still packs a punch. We cover why mission must lead your conversations, how to cultivate until the “yes” is likely, the art of listening (and how to measure it), why the case must be bigger than your organization, and the simple discipline of getting in the living room, not just the inbox.What You’ll LearnLead with mission, not programs: Define the problem you exist to solve; then show how your programs are the vehicle.Money isn’t the problem: Relational deficit > budget deficit. Build the relationship that makes the gift obvious.Change lives, not line items: Donors give to impact. Your job is to articulate how lives change uniquely through you.Listen like a pro: Aim to speak far less than you listen; measure it after each meeting to improve.Don’t be flippant with the ask: Cultivate and ask—don’t “just ask.” Ask when a “yes” is likely.Emotion moves big gifts: Logic opens the door; emotion carries the gift over the thr

Summary:This episode is a walk down memory lane—and a masterclass in the basics that still matter.While looking for a quote from legendary philanthropist Malin Burnham, Clark stumbled on an old slide deck from 2013 titled Lessons Learned: Practical Lessons in Major Gifts Fundraising. It sparked this episode (and likely a series) revisiting the core principles that shaped Clark’s early seminars and still hold true today.If you're a fundraiser who wants to refine your instincts, tighten your messaging, and revisit the “why” behind what works—this episode is packed with timeless truths.Highlights:(00:01) The Malin Burnham quote that still punches today(03:50) Rediscovering Clark’s 2013 fundraising seminar slides(06:00) The 3 E’s of great fundraisers (Empathy, Energy, Enthusiasm)(10:00) Getting the visit is 85% of getting the gift(12:15) Why board members are best at setting up donor meetings(14:30) Don’t sell need—sell vision. You are the solution.(17:10) The 3 things donors look for before making a big gift

Summary:Clark's back on the mic—recorded just before heading to Guatemala—and reflecting on gratitude, career courage, and what it means to be all in. Whether you’re planning your next donor visit or questioning your fit in your current role, this episode will challenge you to examine your alignment and make the next right move.You'll hear how a hostel in Antigua ties into Clark’s personal story and why where you sit matters—not just for you, but for your donors, your mission, and your long-term impact.What You’ll Learn:Why gratitude is a fundraiser’s secret weaponThe two questions every development officer should ask themselvesWhat Steve Jobs, Marlin Burnham, and a Guatemalan hostel have to do with your career pathThe cost of staying in the wrong seat—and the joy of finding the right oneHow to know if it's time to quit (or lean in deeper)Quotable Moment:“If you're not all in, you're just delaying yourself. You’re building donor relationships you’re not going to keep. That’s a bummer—for y

Is Asking for a Gift the Next Right Thing?Summary:Are you about to ask someone for a gift? Maybe the meeting is already on the calendar… but before you make the ask, Clark wants you to pause and reflect.In this episode, Clark shares a powerful mindset shift that can elevate your fundraising from transactional to transformational: asking not because you need the money, but because it's the next right thing in the relationship.You’ll hear the story of Creative Grounds Fine Arts Academy, a children’s theater program that transformed its fundraising strategy through this principle. Plus, Clark brings in inspiration from an unlikely source—Frozen II—to remind us that when the path feels unclear, our job is simply to take the next right step.What You’ll Learn:Why asking “Do we need the money?” is the wrong questionA better litmus test: “Will this ask serve the donor?”How to build long-term relational abundance, not just hit financial targetsThe donor-centric power of asking only when it deepens the relationshipHow

Summary:What if every donor interaction was treated like a golden opportunity? In this episode, Clark builds on the themes from Episode 187 ("Surprise and Delight") to dig deeper into what it really takes to create a culture of excellence in donor stewardship.Drawing from his time working at FedEx—and their legendary commitment to quality service—Clark unpacks how great organizations don’t just occasionally go above and beyond. They do the basics well every single time, and then look for small ways to deliver consistent, meaningful moments of surprise, delight, and trust.You’ll hear real stories from FedEx, reflections on company culture, and how the same principles apply directly to your fundraising. If you want donors to give joyfully—and give more—you’ve got to treat each one like they matter… because they do.Key Topics Covered:The “Purple Promise” and what fundraisers can learn from FedExWhy wow moments matter—but only after you've built trust through consistencyThe power of mindset: how int

Summary:In this episode, Clark dives into the most underrated (yet powerful) skill a fundraiser can cultivate: gratitude.Far beyond gift acknowledgments and thank-you letters, Clark explores how authentic gratitude—when it’s woven into your worldview—can transform your relationships with donors, elevate your joy in the work, and even raise more money. Drawing from personal reflections, practical tips, and the wisdom of Henri Nouwen, he outlines a simple but profound truth: fundraising isn’t about begging—it’s about partnership.You’ll walk away with actionable practices to help you strengthen your “gratitude muscles” so that you don’t just express gratitude… you live it.Key Topics Covered:Why entitlement, bitterness, and resentment are red flags in fundraisingThe sacredness of the donor’s gift: they’re giving you a piece of their lifeWhy real stewardship starts with internal gratitude, not external tacticsPractical daily exercises to grow your gratitude muscles:Journaling and listing what you’re thankful forSe

Summary:In this special episode, Clark is joined by Monica Vandeventer—CEO of Major Gifts Fundraiser and the brain behind the ClarkBot. Together, they unpack how fundraisers can simplify, streamline, and elevate their year-end appeal process using the ClarkBot and a brand-new guided 5-day course.Monica explains how the ClarkBot isn’t just another AI tool—it’s a personalized fundraising assistant trained on Major Gifts Fundraiser’s own methodology, ready to walk with you step-by-step through appeal writing, email copy, social media, phone scripts, and more. Whether you’re staring at a blank page or stuck refining your message, the ClarkBot offers practical help—without the burnout.They also dive into the common mistakes nonprofits make when writing appeals, why message structure matters, and Monica’s signature framework for appeal content: Why, Why Us, Why Now.If you want to avoid a stressful December, this episode is your invitation to give yourself an early Christmas present: a fully prepped year-end campaig

Summary:Are you walking, resting, or sprinting right now? In this episode, Clark Vandeventer shares a powerful metaphor drawn from his time trail running in Tahoe to help you evaluate the pace of your fundraising work. He explores what it means to find a rhythm you can sustain for the long haul—and how to avoid burnout.Clark also offers two simple, relationship-rich habits you can adopt today to deepen donor engagement without exhausting yourself. And he introduces the Clarkbot, an AI-powered tool that makes his insight and encouragement available anytime you need it.Topics covered:What endurance running teaches us about sustainable fundraisingThe dangers of running all-out too longThe importance of pacing: when to push and when to restClark’s “3 donor calls on a walk” routineWhy handwritten notes still matterThe mindset of poco a poco—little by little, one travels farMentioned in This Episode:Clarkbot – Clark’s AI-powered chatbot that answers fundraising questions in Clark’s own voice and tone. Try it for fr

Summary:In this episode, Clark Vandeventer reflects on his annual “Tahoe Time” and uses the example of his Airbnb hosting experience to deliver a timely message for fundraisers: do the basics well—and then, surprise and delight.Clark draws on a quote from the Disney Guide on customer service to challenge fundraisers not to rely on occasional grand gestures, but to consistently deliver meaningful, relationship-rich experiences for donors. You’ll hear about his Stewardship Basics Scorecard, the importance of setting a service baseline, and how playful touches—like fairy gardens and handwritten notes—can only add value after the fundamentals are in place.This episode is full of practical wisdom for fundraisers who want to steward donors in a way that is both effective and heartfelt.Topics covered:The power of establishing a donor stewardship foundationWhy systems alone are not enoughWhen and how to “surprise and delight” your supportersWhat Disney can teach us about consistency in donor careA case study in servi

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser Podcast, Monica and Clark delve into the significance of understanding oneself and others in the context of fundraising. They discuss various personality profiles, the importance of listening, and how to adapt communication styles to better connect with donors. The introduction of the ClarkBot, an AI tool designed to assist fundraisers, is also highlighted, along with upcoming training opportunities and hypothetical ideas for future engagement.TakeawaysUnderstanding your own strengths and weaknesses is crucial.Knowing your partner's love language is more important.Curiosity about donors is essential for fundraisers.Asking strategic questions can enhance donor relationships.Different types of questions can elicit valuable donor insights.Listener preferences can impact donor engagement.Fundraisers should adapt their communication style to match donor preferences.The ClarkBot offers real-time support for fundraisers.Confidence in fundraising comes from cla

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark discusses the importance of personal connections in donor engagement, navigating donor visits that include family and friends, and the value of shared experiences in fundraising. Additionally, he introduces the ClarkBot, an AI-powered tool designed to assist fundraisers with their questions and strategies. TakeawaysRest is not my forte; I typically relax by doing hard things.When hosting donors, it's about conducting a visit, not just tour guiding.Engaging donors involves asking strategic questions amidst personal connections.Bringing family or friends to donor visits can complicate strategic discussions.Shared experiences with donors can enhance their commitment to the organization.The ClarkBot is a valuable tool for fundraising questions and support.Good relationships are built on shared experiences and interactions.Asking strategic questions in front of family can be beneficial for all.Slow and steady processes can lead to more effecti

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark discusses the critical role of culture in fundraising, emphasizing that who you are as a fundraiser matters more than what you do. He explores the importance of genuine gratitude, building authentic relationships with donors, and understanding the deeper nature of donor transactions. The conversation highlights practical strategies for cultivating a positive fundraising culture and the right intentions behind asking for donations.TakeawaysCulture is more important than strategy in fundraising.What you are as a fundraiser speaks louder than your actions.Genuine gratitude is essential for successful fundraising.Building relationships with donors is key to fundraising success.Donors are partners in your mission, not just sources of money.Gratitude should be a defining characteristic of fundraisers.Understanding the emotional connection behind donations is crucial.Asking for donations should be about serving the donor's interests.Reflecting o

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark discusses the importance of meaningful connections in fundraising, the introduction of the AI-powered Clark Bot, and practical advice on crafting effective thank you notes. The conversation emphasizes building strong fundraising habits and strategic questions for engaging donors, highlighting the relationship between fundraising success and authentic connections.TakeawaysThe importance of reflecting on whether daily tasks matter in fundraising.Building relationships with donors is as crucial as spending time with family.The Clark Bot is designed to assist fundraisers with practical advice.Handwritten thank-you notes are a powerful tool for donor engagement.Consistency and intentionality are key in building fundraising habits.Daily donor touchpoints can significantly enhance relationships over time.Preparation before donor meetings is essential for success.Reflection after donor interactions helps in continuous improvement.Understanding donor

Summary:In this episode, Clark Vandeventer uses the example of his Airbnb hosting experience to deliver a timely message for fundraisers: do the basics well—and then, surprise and delight.Clark draws on a quote from the Disney Guide on customer service to challenge fundraisers not to rely on occasional grand gestures, but to consistently deliver meaningful, relationship-rich experiences for donors. You’ll hear about his Stewardship Basics Scorecard, the importance of setting a service baseline, and how playful touches—like fairy gardens and handwritten notes—can only add value after the fundamentals are in place.This episode is full of practical wisdom for fundraisers who want to steward donors in a way that is both effective and heartfelt.Topics covered:The power of establishing a donor stewardship foundationWhy systems alone are not enoughWhen and how to “surprise and delight” your supportersWhat Disney can teach us about consistency in donor careClark’s Tahoe Airbnb: a case study in service and playfulness

SummaryIn this episode, Clark Vandeventer introduces the innovative ClarkBot, an AI-powered chatbot designed to assist fundraisers in their efforts. The conversation explores how the ClarkBot can help users navigate donor relationships, set the stage for asks, and determine appropriate ask amounts. Throughout the episode, Clark emphasizes the importance of personal connection and relationship building in fundraising, while also providing insights into the subscription model for accessing the ClarkBot and additional resources.TakeawaysThe ClarkBot is designed to simulate conversations and provide fundraising advice.AI can analyze past coaching calls and training materials to offer tailored support.Setting the stage for a donor ask is crucial for success.Understanding a donor's history and capacity is key to determining the ask amount.Building relationships with donors is essential before making a significant ask.Personal connection enhances the fundraising experience and increases the likelihood of success

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark Vandeventer discusses the importance of morning routines, personal fulfillment through the three-hour rule, and the balance between maintenance and intensity in life. He emphasizes the need for self-care and intentionality in both personal and professional development, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own routines and goals.TakeawaysThe three-hour rule allows for personal fulfillment.You don’t have to be intense all the time, but you must maintain.Life belongs to the community, and we should serve it.Morning routines set the tone for the day.Self-care is essential for peak performance.Budgeting and scheduling are forms of life energy management.Maintenance mode is necessary for long-term success.Reflect on when to have intense periods of work.Thankfulness for the opportunity to serve others is vital.

Clark pulls back the curtain on the internal culture of fundraising teams. Why do so many talented people leave after 18–24 months? What does it take to create an environment where fundraisers feel empowered, supported, and fulfilled? From the joy of meaningful work to the burnout that comes from feeling like a cog in a machine, they explore the hidden forces shaping nonprofit development—and how to build something better. Whether you’re a team leader or just starting out, this episode invites you to reflect on what kind of culture you're helping create.

It's another Masterclass inspired episode. In this episode, Clark Vandeventer shares some of his notes from Levar Burton's MasterClass on Storytelling. You may know LeVar Burton from his years as host of Reading Rainbow. LeVar talks about how to tell a great story, but Clark emphasizes that great stories only resonnate when they are told be a trusted source, and trust is developed in relationship. So, as an organization, where are you lacking? Are you lacking in storytelling? Or are you lacking in relationships? Link to LeVar's MasterClass: https://www.masterclass.com/classes/levar-burton-teaches-the-power-of-storytelling Clark also shared in this episode that We are giving away FREE ACCESS to ⁠MasterClass⁠! Sign up for ⁠Peak Performance Fundraising⁠ (basically THE MasterClass of Fundraising) and get a one year subscription to MasterClass for free! Peak Performance Fundraising is normally $1495, but we are offering it now for only $500, but you have to email Clark at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.

Host Clark Vandeventer talks about figuring out the right amount to ask for. Fundraisers! Do you have a hard time knowing the right amount to ask for? Can you ask for too much? What if you "leave money on the table"? Clark gives some guidance on figuring out the right amount to ask for. Check out Clark's "other" podcast Around the World with Mr. Clark, available wherever you get your podcasts! Also of note: We are giving away FREE ACCESS to ⁠⁠MasterClass⁠⁠! Sign up for ⁠⁠Peak Performance Fundraising⁠⁠ (basically THE MasterClass of Fundraising) and get a one year subscription to MasterClass for free! Peak Performance Fundraising is normally $1495, but we are offering it now for only $500, but you have to email Clark at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com to get a promo code. We are hiring a Podcast Producer and Social Media Manager! We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Podcast Producer and Social Media Manager to oversee the production of our podcast series and manage our social

Host Clark Vandeventer talks about SMART Goals: SMART goals are a goal-setting technique that uses five benchmarks to help create concise goals and action steps:  S is for Specific: Clearly define what you want to accomplish M is for Measurable: Quantify your goals and build in milestones to make them easier to track A is for Achievable: Consider if you have the resources to achieve your goal R is for Relevant: Consider why you're setting the goal and how it will improve your life or career  T is for Time-bound: Set a firm schedule and stick to it Episode inspired by the Masterclass on Creating Change, which also featured author Lewis Iwu. Malala and Iwu also discussed a great track to put your goals on that can be summed up in four words or phrases: Four words Awareness Different Perspective Quick Win Big Policy Goal Check out Clark's "other" podcast Around the World with Mr. Clark, available wherever you get your podcasts! Clark also shared in this episode