Fundraising

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DEI Rollbacks Are Impacting Australian Charities​

Inclusion

In recent months, the United States has witnessed a significant rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, particularly following political shifts and executive orders aimed at dismantling such programs. Major corporations like Meta, Walmart, and McDonald’s have scaled back their DEI commitments, citing various reasons including political pressure and changing corporate priorities . This trend raises concerns about the potential impact on Australian charities, especially those with ties to U.S.-based organisations or reliant on international funding streams.​

Understanding the U.S. DEI Rollbacks

The rollback of DEI initiatives in the U.S. has been marked by executive actions and corporate decisions to reduce or eliminate programs aimed at promoting workplace diversity and inclusion. Critics argue that these moves undermine efforts to address systemic inequalities and create more equitable work environments The Guardian.​

Implications for Australian Charities

  1. Funding Challenges: Australian charities that receive funding from U.S.-based organisations may face financial uncertainties as donors reassess their giving priorities in light of the changing DEI landscape.​
  2. Operational Adjustments: Charities with partnerships or affiliations with U.S. entities might need to navigate differing expectations regarding DEI practices, potentially leading to operational adjustments to align with new directives.​
  3. Reputational Considerations: The global discourse on DEI can influence public perception. Australian charities may need to reaffirm their commitment to inclusive practices to maintain trust among stakeholders who value diversity and equity.​

Australia’s Legal and Cultural Context

Despite the developments in the U.S., Australia’s legal framework provides a more robust support for such initiatives. Laws such as the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 and obligations under the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) mandate proactive measures to promote gender equality and prevent discrimination . These legal requirements serve as a buffer against potential rollbacks of DEI efforts within Australian organisations.​

Strategies for Australian Charities

  • Reaffirm Commitments: Clearly articulate and communicate the organisation’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring these values are embedded in all aspects of operations.​
  • Engage Stakeholders: Foster open dialogues with donors, partners, and beneficiaries to understand their perspectives on DEI and incorporate their feedback into organisational practices.​
  • Monitor Global Trends: Stay informed about international developments in DEI to anticipate potential impacts and adapt strategies accordingly.​
  • Leverage Legal Frameworks: Utilise Australia’s legal protections to uphold DEI initiatives, ensuring compliance and demonstrating a commitment to equitable practices.​

Conclusion

While the rollback of DEI initiatives in the U.S. presents challenges, Australian charities have the opportunity to reinforce their commitment to inclusive practices. By proactively addressing potential impacts and leveraging Australia’s supportive legal environment, these organisations can continue to foster diverse and equitable communities, setting a positive example on the global stage.

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Well-Being During Tough Times. Taking Care While Giving

Well-being

When the world feels uncertain, fundraisers often carry more than just income targets on their shoulders. They carry hope, urgency, and the weight of a mission that matters. But who cares about the well-being for the carers?

In difficult economic and political climates—when donor behaviour becomes unpredictable and causes feel more urgent than ever—fundraisers find themselves working harder to maintain support, keep morale up, and hit goals that suddenly feel out of reach. It’s easy to slip into overdrive, burning the candle at both ends for the sake of your cause.

But here’s the truth: you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Whether you’re leading a major gifts program, running donor care, or managing appeals, your well-being is not optional—it’s essential. Here’s how fundraisers can protect their mental, emotional, and professional health in challenging times:

1. Acknowledge the Pressure

You’re not imagining it—fundraising is harder in tough economic times. Donors may give less or pause giving altogether. Campaigns may underperform. Budgets may tighten.

Give yourself permission to acknowledge the stress. Ignoring it or pretending you’re fine doesn’t make it go away. It only builds. Speaking honestly with peers or supervisors can create space for shared solutions—and empathy.

2. Set (and Defend) Your Boundaries

In pressure-filled environments, it’s easy to work longer hours, take on extra tasks, and say “yes” to everything. But burnout is not a badge of honor.

  • Create clear work hours—and stick to them.
  • Don’t check work emails after a set time.
  • Use your annual leave. You’ve earned it.
  • Say no when your plate is full.

Boundaries are a kindness to yourself and to your team. They set a culture where well-being is respected.

3. Talk to Your Manager (Even If It’s Awkward)

If expectations are too high or targets feel impossible given the climate, say something. Chances are your leadership team may be just as worried—and unsure how to adjust.

Approach the conversation with data and clarity:

  • Share how giving trends have shifted
  • Highlight what’s realistic vs. aspirational
  • Suggest new strategies or timelines that are more sustainable

Tough conversations are better than burnout.

4. Lean on Your Community

Fundraisers thrive in community. Whether it’s an internal team or a professional network, connect with others who understand the pressures you’re facing.

Try:

  • Attending a local Fundraising Institute of Australia (FIA) event
  • Joining online groups or Slack channels
  • Creating a mini support circle of fundraising peers

Sometimes, just hearing “me too” can be the reset you need.

5. Reconnect With Your ‘Why’—Not Just Your ‘What’

Tough times can make the work feel transactional—like you’re just chasing dollars. Take time to reconnect with the mission that made you a fundraiser in the first place.

  • Read a beneficiary story
  • Visit a program site
  • Talk to someone whose life was changed

Purpose is a powerful antidote to pressure. Remind yourself that your work matters—even when results are slow or hard to measure.

6. Invest in Self Well-Being

Self-care isn’t just yoga and bubble baths. It’s about building daily habits that support your mental and physical health.

  • Prioritise sleep, hydration, and movement
  • Start your day with something grounding (not email)
  • Try mindfulness, journaling, or therapy if you need more support
  • Take breaks—real ones

A well-supported fundraiser is a more effective fundraiser.

7. Adjust Strategies Without Losing Heart

Yes, things are harder. But that doesn’t mean they’re hopeless. This is the time to innovate, test, pivot, and collaborate. What worked before may not work now—but something else might.

  • Try donor surveys to understand current sentiment
  • Focus on stewardship over solicitation
  • Build flexibility into your fundraising calendar

You’re not failing—you’re adapting.

Final Thought

Fundraisers are resilient, passionate, and endlessly resourceful. But that doesn’t mean you’re invincible.

You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to reset. You are allowed to ask for help.

The work is important—but so are you.

If you’re a leader of fundraisers, now’s the time to check in with your team. Ask what they need. Celebrate progress, not just outcomes. Create a culture where well-being is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

💬 What’s one thing you’ll do this week to protect your own energy?

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Supplier Partnerships: Best Practices for Nonprofits Working with Suppliers

In the nonprofit world, partnerships are essential—not only with donors and community stakeholders, but also with the supplier partners who help deliver everything from fundraising campaigns to event production, IT systems, training, marketing, and more.

While suppliers may not be part of your team on paper, the reality is: when nonprofits and suppliers work well together, great things happen. Deliverables are smoother, relationships are stronger, and your mission is better supported.

Here’s how to make those relationships work—and why treating your suppliers like true partners pays off in the long run.

1. Start with Clear Expectations

From the outset, be transparent about what you need, when you need it, and what success looks like. A well-written brief that includes timelines, budget range, audience insights, and deliverables is one of the best gifts you can give a supplier.

Best Practice:
Hold a kick-off meeting and invite your supplier into the strategic conversation. They’ll do a better job when they understand why the work matters—not just what needs to be done.

2. Respect Their Time and Process

Suppliers are professionals with multiple clients and projects on the go. Just like your internal team, they have workflows, schedules, and deadlines to juggle.

Best Practice:
Avoid last-minute requests where possible. Build in adequate lead time for approvals, feedback, and iterations. And if your internal processes are likely to delay things (e.g., board sign-offs), communicate this early.

3. Be Honest About Budget and Constraints

Nonprofits often operate under tight budgets, and good suppliers understand that. But transparency is key. Being upfront about what you can afford—and what you can’t—helps your supplier propose realistic options that still meet your goals.

Best Practice:
If you’re working with limited funds, ask your supplier to help you prioritise deliverables or find phased approaches. You might be surprised how creative they can be when they understand the full picture.

4. Foster Two-Way Communication

Treat your suppliers as collaborators, not vendors. Welcome their ideas and feedback, and be open to suggestions that might improve the final result—even if it challenges your initial thinking.

Best Practice:
Set up regular check-ins during the project timeline. Use these to review progress, troubleshoot, and adjust as needed. This keeps everyone aligned and reduces the chance of unpleasant surprises.

5. Give Constructive Feedback—Promptly

If something isn’t quite right, let them know—respectfully and quickly. Delayed or vague feedback can slow down a project and frustrate both sides.

Best Practice:
Frame feedback around the brief and objectives. Be specific, and where possible, offer examples of what you like or don’t like.

6. Pay Suppliers Promptly and Professionally

Suppliers are businesses too. Late payments can strain relationships and make suppliers hesitant to work with you again.

Best Practice:
Agree on payment terms up front—and honor them. If delays are unavoidable, communicate early and clearly about when payment will be made.

7. Acknowledge and Celebrate Supplier Contributions

Suppliers are often behind the scenes—but that doesn’t mean their efforts go unnoticed. A simple thank you, a testimonial, or a public shout-out can go a long way in showing appreciation.

Best Practice:
If a supplier goes above and beyond, nominate them for a supplier excellence award or refer them to others in your network. Building goodwill means your best partners are more likely to say yes the next time you need them.

Conclusion

Supplier relationships aren’t just transactional—they’re partnerships that can have a lasting impact on your nonprofit’s success. By communicating clearly, planning ahead, and building trust, you create a foundation for mutual respect, quality outcomes, and a more sustainable path to fulfilling your mission.

Remember: when you treat your suppliers like strategic allies, everyone wins—especially the communities you serve.

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Lack of Planning – The Ripple Effect of Last-Minute Requests

Brunout

In the fast-paced world of nonprofit work and project delivery, last-minute requests can feel inevitable. Emergencies happen. Priorities shift. But when “urgent” becomes the norm rather than the exception, it can take a toll—not just on your internal team, but also on the external partners and suppliers you rely on. Planning ahead is a leadership skill and exercising this skill makes it easier on everyone.

It’s easy to forget that our colleagues and collaborators are juggling multiple responsibilities and clients too. Every last-minute request can create a ripple effect, causing stress, missed deadlines, and lower-quality outcomes. In this blog post, we explore the real impact of last-minute requests—and why planning ahead is a simple but powerful way to show respect and build stronger working relationships.

1. Burnout Isn’t Just an Internal Problem

When internal team members are regularly asked to drop everything for a last-minute task, it chips away at morale. It sends the message that their time and workload are less important than the immediate crisis. Over time, this kind of pressure leads to burnout, mistakes, and disengagement.

The same goes for your external suppliers—designers, printers, consultants, tech support, and more. They have schedules, client commitments, and production workflows. A sudden request doesn’t just demand their time—it disrupts it.

2. You Compromise Quality When You Rush

Creative and strategic work takes time. When you rush a job—especially complex or creative work—you risk getting an outcome that’s “just good enough” instead of exceptional.

Your external partners want to deliver their best. When they’re given time to plan, review, and polish their work, the result is a better product for everyone. But if they’re constantly firefighting on your behalf, their capacity to deliver high-quality work erodes.

3. It Can Cost More—In Money and Relationships

Last-minute work often incurs rush fees. And even if it doesn’t, it can strain professional goodwill. If you’re consistently putting pressure on your suppliers to turn things around quickly, it may make them hesitant to prioritise your work in the future—or work with you at all.

Respectful lead times help you maintain strong relationships with trusted suppliers. It positions you as a reliable client—one they’ll go the extra mile for when it truly matters.

4. Planning Ahead is Not Just About Deadlines—It’s About Respect

Every professional relationship, whether internal or external, is built on mutual respect. Giving people time to do their jobs properly communicates that you value their skills and their time. It creates space for collaboration, constructive feedback, and shared ownership of the outcome.

When we rush, we often default to “telling” rather than “asking”—undermining the collaborative spirit we need to succeed.

5. Planning Ahead Is a Leadership Skill

Good planning isn’t just a project management function—it’s a leadership trait. Teams that plan ahead foster trust, reduce stress, and deliver consistently better results. They’re better able to adapt when true emergencies arise, because they aren’t already operating at full capacity under constant urgency.

By planning ahead, you help everyone—your team, your partners, and yourself—stay focused, effective, and motivated.

How to Do Better

  • Set clear timelines: Build in buffer time for feedback, approvals, and potential delays.
  • Communicate early: Even if a task isn’t urgent yet, give your partners a heads-up so they can plan.
  • Clarify priorities: If something is urgent, explain why and be transparent about timelines.
  • Respect working hours: Avoid sending work with short deadlines at the end of the day or right before weekends.
  • Debrief and reflect: If something became last-minute due to internal delays, review what happened and improve the process.

In Summary

Last-minute requests don’t just impact deadlines—they affect people. Whether it’s your internal team or your external partners, everyone deserves the time and space to do their best work. Planning ahead is one of the simplest ways to demonstrate professionalism, foster trust, and improve outcomes across the board.

So next time you’re tempted to say, “Can we get this by tomorrow?”—pause, and ask: How can we make this easier on everyone involved?

Because thoughtful planning isn’t just efficient—it’s respectful. And that’s good for business, good for morale, and good for impact.

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Data & Business Insights and Supporter Relations Teams are a Mystery

Data & Business Insights

In many charities, teams like Data & Business Insights and Supporter Relations are critical to the organisation’s success—but to many staff members outside those units, what they actually do can feel like a bit of a mystery. Despite their essential role in helping the charity operate efficiently, fundraise effectively, and connect meaningfully with donors, these teams are often misunderstood or overlooked.

So why does this happen? And what can be done to bridge the gap?

Let’s take a closer look at why these business units sometimes operate in the shadows—and how bringing them into the light can benefit the whole organisation.

1. Data & Business Insights and Supporter Relations Work “Behind the Scenes“

One of the most straightforward reasons is that these teams often aren’t on the frontlines. While programs teams are delivering services and fundraising teams are securing gifts, teams like data and supporter relations are working behind the curtain—making systems run smoothly, cleaning databases, answering donor queries, and pulling the insights that drive smarter decisions.

Because their work is more operational than public-facing, it’s easy for others to forget just how much value they bring—or simply not know the full extent of what they do.

2. Data & Business Insights’ Work Is Highly Technical

Data teams speak the language of databases, dashboards, and statistical models. Supporter relations teams often deal with complex systems like CRMs and have to juggle email deliverability, segmentation rules, and compliance with privacy laws.

To staff in more external-facing or creative roles, this work can feel intimidating or overly technical. If it’s not explained in plain language or connected to the mission, it’s easy for others to tune out.

3. Their Impact Is Indirect—but Deeply Strategic

A fundraising appeal is easy to see. A donor’s thank-you letter is tangible. But what about the segmentation strategy that ensured the right donors received the right message? Or the supporter care process that handled a complaint and turned it into renewed trust?

The impact of data and supporter relations is strategic—often more long-term and systemic than immediate or emotional. This can make their contributions feel less visible or harder to quantify to the rest of the team, even though their work underpins so much of the charity’s success.

4. Lack of Cross-Departmental Communication

Sometimes, these teams are siloed—either by structure or simply due to busy schedules and limited opportunities to collaborate. When data and insights teams don’t have a regular rhythm of sharing findings with fundraising, or when supporter relations isn’t invited into campaign planning, it becomes harder for mutual understanding to develop.

This isolation leads to a lack of appreciation—and sometimes even frustration—when others don’t see the strategic value being added behind the scenes.

5. They’re Often Under-Resourced

In many charities, especially smaller ones, data & business insights and supporter care teams are small and stretched thin. That can mean they’re more reactive than proactive, spending more time fixing urgent issues than championing their own value.

When you’re always in firefighting mode, there’s little time left to do internal advocacy, tell success stories, or train others on how your work fits into the bigger picture.

So, What Can Be Done?

If you’re a charity leader or part of one of these “mystery teams,” here are a few ways to help shine a light on this vital work:

  • Show, don’t just tell: Share stories and examples of how data, insights, or supporter care led to a successful outcome—whether that’s improved donor retention or a campaign that exceeded expectations.
  • Offer training and “inside looks”: Host lunch-and-learns or internal presentations to demystify tools and processes for other teams.
  • Invite collaboration: Build relationships with colleagues in other departments and look for ways to work together on shared goals.
  • Translate your work into impact language: Avoid jargon where possible and focus on how your work supports the charity’s mission, its beneficiaries, and its supporters.
  • Ask for a seat at the table: Advocate for data, insights, and supporter experience to be considered early in planning conversations, not just as support functions.

Conclusion

Data, Business Insights, and Supporter Relations may work quietly behind the scenes, but their influence runs deep. By breaking down silos, building cross-team understanding, and sharing the stories behind the numbers and processes, charities can unlock even more value—and make sure every team feels connected to the mission and to each other.

After all, when every part of the organisation understands how the others operate, the whole becomes stronger, smarter, and more unified in purpose.

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Cheques are going away. Is your charity ready?

The Australian government has announced a comprehensive plan to phase out cheques, aiming to modernise the nation’s payment systems in response to the significant decline in cheque usage over recent decades. News reports have documented the fact that this transition poses both challenges and opportunities for charities, particularly those that have traditionally relied on donations via this payment type.​ Is your charity prepared for the time when donors are no longer issuing cheques for their donations?

Timeline for Cheque Phase-Out

The government’s proposed timeline for discontinuing cheques is as follows:​

  • 2025: Cease issuance of bank cheques.​
  • 2026: Cease issuance of commercial and government cheques.​
  • 2027: Cease issuance of personal cheques.​
  • End-2028: Cease acceptance of personal, commercial, and government cheques.​
  • End-2030: Cease acceptance of bank cheques and close the cheque system entirely.​

Impact on Charities

For many Australian charities, cheque donations have been a significant source of funding, especially among older demographics who prefer traditional payment methods. A survey by Fundraising Institute Australia (FIA) revealed that:​

  • 12% of responding charities receive over 50% of their annual donations via cheques.​
  • 17% receive between 30% and 50% of their annual donations through this payment type.

Some organisations reported receiving up to 80% of their donations via cheques, highlighting the potential financial impact of the phase-out.

Preparations by Charities

In anticipation of the system’s discontinuation, charities are implementing several strategies to adapt:​

  1. Diversifying Payment Options: Organisations are expanding their donation methods to include online platforms, direct debit arrangements, and other electronic payment systems. For instance, Jesuit Social Services is introducing BPAY as an alternative for donors.
  2. Educating Donors: Recognising that many cheque donors are elderly and may be less familiar with digital payments, charities are investing in educational initiatives to guide these supporters through new donation processes.​
  3. Enhancing Digital Infrastructure: Investments are being made in upgrading digital platforms to ensure secure, user-friendly experiences for donors transitioning from cheques to online giving.​

Challenges Ahead

Despite these proactive measures, challenges remain:​

  • Donor Retention: The shift away from cheques may alienate donors uncomfortable with digital payments, potentially leading to decreased contributions.​
  • Operational Costs: Implementing new payment systems and conducting donor education campaigns require financial and human resources, which may strain smaller charities.​
  • Accessibility Issues: In regions with limited internet connectivity, reliance on digital payments may pose logistical difficulties for both charities and donors.​

Conclusion

The planned elimination of cheques from the Australian banking system marks a significant shift in the financial landscape, with profound implications for the charitable sector. While the transition presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity for charities to modernise their operations, engage with donors through diverse channels, and potentially reach new supporter demographics. By proactively adapting to these changes, Australian charities can continue to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

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Celebrate Donor Giving Anniversaries (And Boost Fundraising)

For many charities, donor retention is one of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in their fundraising strategy. While much attention is paid to year-end appeals or #GivingTuesday campaigns, one powerful and often underused tactic is celebrating anniversaries of a donor’s first gift.

Recognising this milestone not only shows appreciation but also opens the door to deepen relationships and inspire further giving. Here’s how your charity can creatively acknowledge donor anniversaries and leverage them to strengthen fundraising outcomes.

1. Send a Personalised Anniversary Thank-You

Imagine receiving a thoughtful message that reads: “One year ago today, you made your first gift to help change lives.” A simple, heartfelt thank-you—whether via email, letter, or phone call—can make a donor feel valued and seen. Use this moment to remind them of the impact their giving has had over the past year.

2. Share a Donor Impact Story

Pair the anniversary message with a compelling story of how their contribution has made a difference. Whether it’s a personal testimonial from a beneficiary, statistics showing project outcomes, or a behind-the-scenes photo, showing tangible results can reignite a donor’s passion for your cause.

3. Offer a Special Giving Opportunity

The anniversary is a prime time to invite the donor to take the next step. Frame it as a celebration: “In honour of your giving anniversary, would you consider renewing your support with a gift today?” You could also suggest a monthly gift upgrade, participation in a matching gift campaign, or involvement in a special project.

4. Anniversary Recognition in Donor Communications

Feature donors celebrating anniversaries in newsletters or on your website (with permission). A short profile or “donor spotlight” article can foster a sense of community and encourage peer inspiration.

5. Exclusive Anniversary Perks

For major donors or long-term supporters, consider offering something special to mark the occasion:

  • Early access to reports or event tickets
  • A branded thank-you gift (e.g., a pin, tote, or handwritten note)
  • Invitations to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours or webinars with your leadership team

6. Gamify the Anniversary

Make it fun by launching a “Giving Anniversary Club” where donors who renew or increase their gift on their anniversary receive badges, public recognition, or small rewards. Gamification can tap into donors’ intrinsic motivation and sense of loyalty.

7. Create a Multi-Year Giving Journey

Treat the first anniversary as the start of an intentional cultivation strategy. For example:

  • Year 1: Personal thank-you and impact update.
  • Year 2: Anniversary celebration + invitation to deeper engagement (volunteering, event participation).
  • Year 3+: Recognition as a loyal donor, with offers to join leadership giving circles or legacy giving conversations.

8. Use Automation Thoughtfully

Modern CRM systems allow you to automate anniversary reminders and personalised messages, but don’t forget to add a human touch. Tailor communications based on donor history, preferences, and giving levels to make them feel truly special.

Why This Works

Celebrating donor anniversaries taps into emotions and relationship-building, which are key drivers of philanthropy. According to research, donors who feel appreciated and see their impact are more likely to continue—and even increase—their giving over time. The US Alzheimer’s Association recently sent me a Happy Anniversary email recognising the first gift I gave to them 12 years ago and seeking me to renew my support.

By recognising the anniversary of a donor’s first gift, charities have an opportunity to deepen engagement, express gratitude, and inspire renewed commitment. When thoughtfully executed, this small but meaningful gesture can be a valuable part of your overall fundraising and stewardship strategy.

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Nonprofits Must Continue to Lead DEI Initiatives

In the first weeks of the Trump administration, President Trump has made moves to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, creating uncertainty for organisations committed to fostering inclusive environments. Despite these challenges, nonprofit organisations must remain steadfast in their DEI efforts. The very nature of nonprofit work—serving diverse communities, advocating for marginalised groups, and striving for social equity—demands an unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion. Here’s why nonprofits should continue prioritising DEI, regardless of political headwinds.

1. Upholding Core Values

Most nonprofit organisations exist to serve the public good, often focusing on underrepresented or underserved communities. Rolling back DEI initiatives would contradict their fundamental missions. Equity and inclusion ensure that nonprofits are truly addressing systemic barriers and fostering environments where all individuals have equal access to opportunities and resources. By maintaining DEI efforts, nonprofits reinforce their commitment to fairness and justice.

2. Strengthening Community Trust and Engagement

Communities expect nonprofits to be inclusive and representative of the people they serve. Scaling back DEI efforts can erode trust and weaken engagement with key stakeholders. A diverse and equitable nonprofit not only attracts a broader base of support but also fosters deeper connections with beneficiaries, donors, and volunteers. Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to DEI reassures communities that their voices matter and that the nonprofit is invested in long-term, meaningful change.

3. Enhancing Organisational Effectiveness

Research consistently shows that diverse and inclusive organisations are more innovative, resilient, and effective. Nonprofits that embrace DEI can tap into a wider range of perspectives, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving. Moreover, fostering an inclusive work environment improves employee satisfaction and retention, reducing turnover costs and ensuring a more stable and dedicated workforce.

4. Navigating the Changing Landscape

While federal policies may shift, the broader social and business landscape continues to prioritise DEI. Many private foundations, corporations, and donors still consider diversity and inclusion essential criteria for funding decisions. Nonprofits that deprioritise DEI may find themselves at a disadvantage when seeking grants, partnerships, and sponsorships. Staying the course ensures that organisations remain competitive and aligned with the evolving expectations of funders and partners.

5. Standing in Solidarity with Marginalised Groups

At a time when certain communities feel increasingly vulnerable due to policy changes, nonprofits have a moral obligation to stand firm in their support. Rolling back DEI initiatives sends the wrong message to those who rely on nonprofit services. Instead, organisations should double down on their commitment to advocacy, equitable hiring, and inclusive programming to ensure that the most marginalised populations continue to receive the support they need.

6. Leading by Example

Nonprofits play a crucial role in shaping societal norms and influencing public discourse. By continuing their DEI efforts, they set a powerful example for other organisations, businesses, and communities. Leadership in diversity and inclusion can inspire change beyond the nonprofit sector, demonstrating that a commitment to equity is not just a political stance but a fundamental principle of ethical and effective service.

While government rollbacks on DEI initiatives may create challenges, they should not dictate the priorities of nonprofit organisations. Now more than ever, nonprofits must reaffirm their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion to maintain credibility, effectiveness, and impact. By staying the course, nonprofits not only support marginalised communities but also strengthen their own sustainability and leadership in creating a more just and inclusive society.

How is your nonprofit reinforcing its DEI commitment in the face of changing policies? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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How to Get the Most Out of a Fundraising Conference

Attending a fundraising conference can be a game-changer for your nonprofit. The Fundraising Institute Australia Conference is just days away. These events offer valuable insights, networking opportunities, and access to the latest trends in the sector. However, to maximise your investment of time and resources, it’s essential to approach the conference with a clear strategy. Here’s how you can make the most of your experience:

1. Set Clear Conference Goals

Before you even step foot in the conference, outline your objectives. Do you want to learn about new fundraising technologies? Are you hoping to connect with potential donors or partners? Setting clear goals will help you focus on sessions and activities that align with your mission.

2. Plan Your Conference Schedule in Advance

Most conferences provide an agenda ahead of time. Review it carefully and highlight sessions that align with your goals. Prioritise keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities that will provide the most value to your organisation.

3. Network with Purpose

One of the biggest benefits of attending a conference is the chance to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential funders. Don’t just collect business cards—engage in meaningful conversations, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up after the event to solidify those connections.

4. Take Advantage of Exhibitor Booths

Many conferences feature an exhibit hall showcasing the latest tools and services for nonprofits. Visit these booths to explore new fundraising software, CRM solutions, and consulting services that could help streamline your fundraising efforts.

5. Participate in Discussions and Workshops

Interactive sessions provide an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and share insights with other attendees. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and share your organisation’s challenges—chances are, someone in the room has faced similar issues and can offer valuable advice.

6. Leverage Social Media

Engage with the conference in real time by sharing key takeaways on social media. Use the event’s hashtag, tag speakers, and connect with fellow attendees on LinkedIn or Twitter. This not only enhances your learning but also increases your organisation’s visibility.

7. Take Good Notes and Share Knowledge

Jot down important insights and actionable ideas during sessions. After the conference, compile your notes into a summary and share them with your team. This ensures that your entire organisation benefits from what you’ve learned.

8. Follow Up After the Event

The real impact of a conference often comes after it’s over. Reach out to new connections, send thank-you emails, and follow up on potential collaborations. Implement the strategies and insights you’ve gained to improve your fundraising efforts.

Final Thoughts

A fundraising conference is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to grow, innovate, and strengthen your nonprofit’s impact. With the right approach, you can turn a few days of learning and networking into long-term benefits for your organisation. Go in with a plan, stay engaged, and take action afterwards to truly maximise your experience!

FundraisingForce looks forward to seeing you at the FIA Conference next week and at the Association of Fundraising Professionals ICON in April!

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Writing Personalised Notes to Donors

Thank you

In the digital age, where emails and text messages dominate, there’s something profoundly personal about a handwritten note or thoughtful letter. For charities, connecting with donors often means finding creative ways to show impact and gratitude. Writing personalised notes, cards, or letters to your patients or clients and sharing them with donors is a powerful tool to deepen donor engagement. Here’s how charities can do this effectively.

1. Highlight Personal Stories with Permission

One of the most impactful ways to connect donors to the cause is through storytelling. Ask for permission from patients or clients to share their stories in notes or letters. If needed, anonymise sensitive details to ensure their privacy and dignity. For instance, a cancer patient might share how donor support provided access to life-saving treatments, or a student might describe how a scholarship changed their future. Include these stories in thank-you cards to donors, making the impact of their contributions tangible.

2. Create Collaborative Personalised Thank-You Notes

Invite clients or patients to participate in creating thank-you notes. For example, children in an after-school program could draw pictures, or participants in a community art class might design cards. Pair these creative expressions with a short note explaining the program’s success. When donors receive these unique pieces, they’ll feel a personal connection to the people they’ve helped.

3. Celebrate Milestones Together

Engage your donors by involving them in celebrations. If a patient has reached a recovery milestone or a client has achieved a goal, write a note sharing the good news. Include a personal thank-you message like, “Because of your generosity, John completed his first year of college. Here’s a note he wrote to share his gratitude.” Including a photo (with permission) can make the note even more impactful.

4. Host a Letter-Writing Event

Consider hosting a donor appreciation event where clients and patients write personalised letters directly to donors. Make it a fun and interactive experience with snacks, music, and creative supplies. Donors will appreciate the handwritten notes, and clients will have the opportunity to express their gratitude.

5. Use Seasonal Cards

Leverage holidays and seasons to send themed cards. For example, during the holiday season, you could send a warm, festive note from a family who received housing assistance. In spring, share a card featuring flowers drawn by clients in an art therapy program. The seasonal touch adds thoughtfulness and timeliness to your communication.

6. Show Donors the Impact of Their Specific Contribution

When possible, tie notes and letters to specific contributions. For instance, if a donor funded a new piece of medical equipment, include a note from a patient who benefited from it. If they supported a school program, share a letter from a student who gained new skills. Showing a direct link between the donation and the outcome makes the impact more personal and real.

7. Add Video or Audio Components

Consider combining traditional notes with modern technology. A written card could include a QR code linking to a short video message or audio recording from a client expressing their thanks. This multimedia approach brings the message to life while preserving the personal touch of a handwritten note.

8. Incorporate Small Tokens of Gratitude

In addition to letters or cards, consider including small, meaningful tokens. For example, a bookmark designed by clients, a flower pressed into a card, or a simple bracelet made during a workshop. These small gestures create a memorable experience for the donor.

9. Keep It Consistent and Authentic

The key to success in using notes, cards, and letters is consistency and authenticity. Ensure that every communication aligns with your organisation’s voice and mission. Avoid making these letters feel generic or overly polished. Donors respond best to genuine, heartfelt messages.

Final Thoughts

Writing personalised notes, cards, and letters that connect donors to the people they help is an incredibly effective way to foster long-term relationships. By sharing stories, celebrating milestones, and adding creative touches, you can show donors the true impact of their generosity. In a world where communication often feels impersonal, these thoughtful gestures stand out and make a lasting impression.

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