Episode Summary: What the Fundraising - Embracing and Enabling the People Behind the Purpose
Introduction
In Episode 219 of "What the Fundraising," host Mallory Erickson deviates from the usual format by sharing the introduction to her book, What the Fundraising: Embracing and Enabling the People Behind the Purpose. Released on December 24, 2024, this episode offers a deep dive into Mallory’s personal journey in the nonprofit sector, the inherent challenges faced by fundraisers, and her innovative approach to transforming fundraising practices through her unique frameworks—the Power Partners Formula and Alignment Fundraising.
Mallory’s Journey into Fundraising
Mallory begins by recounting her accidental foray into fundraising. Fresh out of college, she took a position managing a community garden despite having no prior experience in fundraising. Her eagerness to make a difference led her to take on multiple roles, eventually catapulting her into a directorship position with the sole responsibility of raising significant funds—a role she was ill-prepared for.
Quote [00:47]: "When I wrote the book What the Fundraising: Embracing Enabling the People behind the Purpose, I found out pretty early on from the publishers that I probably wouldn't be able to record the audiobook... I still actually wanted to read the introduction to all of you today because the introduction in many ways introduces you to me."
The Struggles of Traditional Fundraising
Mallory vividly describes the emotional and physical toll that traditional fundraising can exact. She shares her initial anxiety and feelings of unworthiness, highlighting the lack of proper onboarding and support systems for new fundraisers. This section underscores the pervasive stress and burnout that many in the fundraising profession experience.
Quote [05:30]: "As soon as I realized that fundraising meant holding the organization's fate in my hands, I never felt more alone."
Understanding the Fundraisers' Stress Response
A significant portion of the episode delves into the physiological reactions fundraisers have to stress, particularly focusing on the sympathetic nervous system's fight, flight, and freeze responses. Mallory explains how these involuntary reactions hinder effective fundraising by impairing decision-making, relationship-building, and overall well-being.
Quote [12:45]: "Executive coaching teaches us how to harness our power, redirect our own thoughts, break negative beliefs, and create actions that empower us to achieve our goals."
The Power Partners Formula and Alignment Fundraising
Introducing her groundbreaking frameworks, Mallory explains the Power Partners Formula and Alignment Fundraising. These methodologies shift the traditional fundraising paradigm from one of scarcity and coercion to one of abundance and mutual benefit. By fostering authentic and sustainable relationships with donors, fundraisers can achieve greater success without the accompanying stress and burnout.
Quote [27:16]: "Alignment fundraising gives us the opportunity to transition from a scarcity mindset and self-doubt and is rooted in the idea that great fundraising is not an ask, it's an offer."
Impact on Fundraising Success and Sustainability
Mallory illustrates the tangible benefits of her approach by sharing success stories, including her own experience of tripling an organization's revenue with ease and enjoying the fundraising process. She emphasizes that by managing stress and fostering genuine connections, fundraisers can sustainably and reliably increase their funding.
Quote [30:02]: "When I made this shift, I learned to pay attention to my chronic stress and more consistently stay in a connected state of mind. I could raise millions of dollars with more ease and less stress."
Addressing Systemic Issues in the Nonprofit Sector
Mallory acknowledges the broader systemic challenges within the nonprofit sector, including racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. She stresses the need for sector leaders to prioritize the well-being of fundraisers as a foundational step toward ensuring the sector's sustainability and effectiveness.
Quote [30:19]: "Nonprofits that work with and center disproportionately affected communities... have faced extraordinary challenges securing necessary funding."
Call to Action: Embracing a Sustainable Future for Fundraisers
In her concluding remarks, Mallory urges both fundraisers and sector leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, challenge existing paradigms, and adopt approaches that prioritize mental and emotional health. She envisions a future where fundraising is an empowering and fulfilling endeavor, integral to the health and growth of the nonprofit sector.
Quote [35:26]: "The future of the nonprofit sector depends on providing fundraisers with tools that support the whole fundraiser, including the inner experience of the fundraiser, not just templates or trainings that focus solely on fundraising strategy."
Notable Quotes
- [00:47]: "I still actually wanted to read the introduction to all of you today because the introduction in many ways introduces you to me."
- [05:30]: "As soon as I realized that fundraising meant holding the organization's fate in my hands, I never felt more alone."
- [12:45]: "Executive coaching teaches us how to harness our power, redirect our own thoughts, break negative beliefs, and create actions that empower us to achieve our goals."
- [27:16]: "Alignment fundraising gives us the opportunity to transition from a scarcity mindset and self-doubt and is rooted in the idea that great fundraising is not an ask, it's an offer."
- [30:02]: "When I made this shift, I learned to pay attention to my chronic stress and more consistently stay in a connected state of mind. I could raise millions of dollars with more ease and less stress."
- [30:19]: "Nonprofits that work with and center disproportionately affected communities... have faced extraordinary challenges securing necessary funding."
- [35:26]: "The future of the nonprofit sector depends on providing fundraisers with tools that support the whole fundraiser, including the inner experience of the fundraiser, not just templates or trainings that focus solely on fundraising strategy."
Conclusion
Episode 219 of "What the Fundraising" offers a profound exploration of the human elements behind fundraising. Mallory Erickson's candid sharing of her experiences and her innovative solutions provide invaluable insights for fundraisers and sector leaders aiming to transform fundraising practices. By addressing the root causes of stress and advocating for systemic change, Mallory empowers fundraisers to achieve greater impact with sustained personal fulfillment.
Final Thoughts
Mallory’s episode serves as a vital resource for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector. Her emphasis on the well-being of fundraisers as a cornerstone for successful fundraising efforts is both compassionate and strategic. By adopting her frameworks, fundraisers can navigate their roles with greater ease, authenticity, and joy, ultimately fostering stronger connections with donors and ensuring the sustainability of their organizations.