Generations of Giving: A Mother-Daughter Dialogue on Board Service & Fundraising with Suzy Wilcox and Martha Schwieters

The Small Nonprofit

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Curious about balancing experience and fresh ideas on your nonprofit board? Seeking ways to keep fundraising events engaging in the digital age? Join a candid conversation with a mother-daughter duo as they share their diverse experiences and perspectives on board service, fundraising, and community engagement.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio sits down with Suzy Wilcox, Director of Development at Evergreen, and her mother, Martha Schwieters, an active donor and experienced board member. They delve into the generational divide in board service, the importance of community-centered fundraising, and the evolving landscape of philanthropic events. Suzy and Martha also share personal anecdotes and insights from their unique journeys in the nonprofit sector.

Key Episode Highlights:

• Balancing Experience and Fresh Ideas: Board diversity is crucial for nonprofit success. Encourage a mix of experienced members and newcomers to foster innovation and avoid stagnation. Consider implementing term limits and actively recruiting new members with diverse skills and backgrounds.
• Community-Centric Fundraising: Prioritize building relationships and community engagement over transactional fundraising tactics. Focus on creating warm, welcoming events that foster connection and showcase the impact of your organization's work.
• Generational Perspectives: Acknowledge and bridge the generational divide in board service. Encourage open communication and respect for diverse perspectives, fostering a collaborative environment where both experience and fresh ideas are valued.
• Adaptive Fundraising Strategies: Embrace the digital age while maintaining a human touch. Experiment with different fundraising approaches, such as hybrid events, personalized appeals, and donor-advised funds, to cater to diverse preferences and maximize your impact.
• The Power of Shared Philanthropy: Explore the benefits of shared philanthropy through giving circles or collective impact initiatives. These models can pool resources, amplify impact, and foster a sense of community among donors and organizations alike.

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Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/3jYFMOpeRdI

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Suzy Wilcox on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-wilcox2019/?originalSubdomain=ca
• Check out the Evergreen website: https://www.evergreen.ca/
• Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
• Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/208666/supporters/new

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