Posts by rj.smith

“New Year, New…?” We’ve all heard the phrase before; and in three short weeks’ time, we will hear it again; “New Year, New [Insert Noun]”. As with any turning of the page, the idea of the “new” and what may lie ahead in a new year can provoke many emotions: excitement, uncertainty, hope, even relief.…

What’s the Big Idea?! I love that the annual DMAW MAXIs allows us to see the work we all spend so much time thinking and talking about, and we get to learn what drives donors and donations for other organizations. Even though I knew two of my team’s campaigns for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC)…

Thanks for Volunteering! Volunteers are the engine that powers DMAW and in this season of gratitude, we give a heartfelt thanks to all of you who volunteer your time, expertise, office/meeting room space, and so much more! I enjoy co-chairing the Volunteer Committee because I get to interact with so many from our industry –…

Faced with a challenging fundraising landscape, many nonprofit organizations are turning to their existing audiences, hoping that by upgrading some of their existing donors internally they can relieve some of the costly acquisition pressure. As a result, we’re seeing some nonprofits putting added focus on their high-value donor audiences, including mid-level and sustainers, over their…

Does Your Messaging Match Giving Level Dynamics? We all agree “one size fits all” messaging doesn’t work. Here are five ways to make sure your messaging matches donor dynamics in the three giving levels common to most programs – lower-dollar, midlevel and major donors. Donor Time Frames: Of course, nobody objects to having an immediate…

Fostering Growth and Connection: YDMAW’s 2024 Mentorship Program For the second year, the YDMAW has continued its Mentorship Program providing young professionals with invaluable guidance and support from seasoned professionals. This year, four women industry leaders – Katy Jordan, Victoria Mannoia, Zakeia Rodgers, and Tiffany Delgado – generously volunteered their time and expertise to mentor…