We Are For Good Podcast - Episode 598: 2025 Social Impact Trends That Matter: Community is the Multiplier

Introduction

In Episode 598 of the We Are For Good Podcast, hosted by Jon McCoy, CFRE, and Becky Endicott, CFRE, the focal point of discussion centers on a pivotal trend set to shape the nonprofit landscape in 2025: "Community is the Multiplier." The episode features Floyd Jones, a renowned speaker, coach, and community builder, who delves deep into the significance of community-led growth for nonprofits and purpose-driven entrepreneurs.

Main Theme: Community is the Multiplier

The central theme of the episode emphasizes that while attracting supporters is essential, sustaining their engagement through community building is what truly multiplies an organization's impact. Floyd Jones articulates this by stating:

"People are gonna come for the thing, but they're gonna stay for the people." (00:05)

This sentiment underscores the necessity for nonprofits to foster a sense of belonging and long-term commitment among their supporters.

The Power of Community in Nonprofits

Floyd Jones elaborates on how a community-centric approach can transform a nonprofit's mission. He challenges the traditional focus on product-led or marketing-led growth, advocating instead for community-led growth as the true catalyst for lasting impact.

"What’s going to make them stay? How are you going to actually bring them into the community for the long haul?" (04:56)

Jones shares a compelling success story about a small Alaskan bird rescue organization. Initially skeptical about the efficacy of social media, the organization attended a webinar on social media growth strategies. By implementing community-driven tactics—such as behind-the-scenes posts and engaging events—they experienced a viral surge in engagement, garnering over a million views on Instagram in a single day.

"It's about we. Do people see themselves in what you are doing? Are you inviting them along for the journey?" (07:01)

Strategies and Mindsets for Effective Community Building

Becky Endicott raises a critical point about the internal shifts necessary for successful community building, highlighting that it's not merely about executing tactics but adopting foundational mindsets. Floyd agrees, emphasizing the importance of creating space for community and transformation to flourish organically.

"Community is really becoming such a buzzword right now. But my question is, how are we going to go beyond the buzzword?" (09:22)

The Four C's of Community Building

Floyd introduces a strategic framework he calls the "Four C's of Community Building," designed to guide nonprofits in cultivating and sustaining vibrant communities:

1. Catalyst (22:55):

   • Capturing Attention: Utilize compelling media, such as viral videos or engaging social media content, to attract new supporters.
   • "That video going viral, that's a catalyst, right?"

2. Communicate (22:55):

   • Building Relationships: Engage in meaningful two-way communication, sharing stories and listening to the community's narratives.
   • "How are we building a long-term relationship? I want you to know what important events are in our cycle."

3. Convert (22:55):

   • Offering Opportunities: Provide tailored engagement opportunities that align with supporters' interests and contributions.
   • "Maybe a person is better for the monthly giving like I talked about."

4. Catapult (22:55):

   • Empowering Leaders: Encourage and equip community members to take on leadership roles, thereby expanding the organization's reach and impact.
   • "They're embodying all my seeds, okay? They just do it so perfectly."

This framework not only facilitates donor acquisition and retention but also transforms supporters into active, passionate advocates for the cause.

Avoiding Burnout: Sustainable Growth

Addressing the prevalent issue of burnout among nonprofit professionals, Floyd shares personal strategies for maintaining a sustainable pace in community building. He emphasizes the importance of embedding community-building efforts into the organization's core operations rather than treating them as supplementary tasks.

"Community needs to be embedded within. Like if you're not building with your people in mind, you're already setting yourself up for failure." (17:27)

Practical tips include:

• Pace Yourself: Allocate time for rest and personal well-being to maintain long-term productivity.

  "I've started booking my trips in advance and color-coding my calendar to ensure regular breaks." (17:38)

• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on deepening relationships rather than overextending with numerous superficial engagements.

  "Start small with what can be habitual, what can be put into practice over and over." (14:46)

Practical Tips and Insights

Floyd advocates for goal alignment and donor segmentation as pivotal elements for effective community engagement. By understanding donor behaviors and preferences, nonprofits can tailor their strategies to foster deeper connections.

"Pick one thing. Where are you going deep in your development operation this year?" (21:18)

He also shares insights on the importance of consistency in interactions, ensuring that organizations show up for their community members beyond mere transactional engagements.

"Consistency is all about proving and showing up over and over and being trustworthy." (13:56)

Floyd Jones' One Good Thing

Concluding the episode, Floyd delivers an inspiring metaphor about transformation:

"No one starts off as a butterfly. You got to start as a caterpillar... but soon you're gonna touch the sky." (26:45)

This analogy encapsulates the journey of community building—starting from humble beginnings, enduring challenges, and ultimately achieving vibrant, impactful growth.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode wraps up with encouragement for listeners to embrace the community-centric approach and leverage the strategies discussed to amplify their organizations' impact. Floyd Jones invites listeners to connect with him through his website and social media platforms for further resources and support.

"If you're a black-led nonprofit, if you're a change maker, a nonprofit leader, we got all the things for you." (28:25)

Additionally, Jon McCoy and Becky Endicott promote a free 60-minute on-demand workshop designed to help organizations implement the eight social impact trends discussed throughout the series. Interested listeners are encouraged to visit www.weareforgood.com/trends2025 to participate.

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for nonprofit professionals aiming to harness the power of community to drive meaningful and sustainable change. By adopting a community-first mindset and implementing the Four C's framework, organizations can multiply their impact and foster a loyal, engaged supporter base poised to champion their missions into 2025 and beyond.