Episode 1

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Published on:

9th Dec 2021

5 Important Lessons I Learned in 9 Years as a Chief Philanthropy Officer

 If you've attended a conference where I've spoken in the last several years, you've likely heard me talk about The Children's Center in Detroit. I've had the pleasure of working with The Children's Center for nearly 20 years. First as a fundraising trainer and coach. Then as a part-time contractor to cover staffing gaps. Then a few years later, I became an employee - and served as Chief Philanthropy Officer for 9 years.

  • It was there that we tripled fundraising results in the first three years
  • Emerged from the great recession in 2012
  • And like you, began a pandemic journey we didn't see coming

I resigned from The Children's Center six months ago to devote my full attention to my company, Fundraising Transformed. It's only now... six months later... that insights from those 9 years are emerging. As they say, you can't see the forest when you're in the trees.

Today, I want to share five important lessons I learned in 9 years as a Chief Philanthropy Officer. Insights that I hope will help you be a more intentional, resilient, and effective fundraiser and leader.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

 

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About the Podcast

The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast
Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, hosted by Tammy Zonker.

If you're passionate about making a positive impact in the world through your work in the nonprofit sector, this podcast is tailor-made for you. I'm here to equip and empower fundraising pros and nonprofit leaders, just like you, with the insights and inspiration you need to elevate your fundraising game and, in turn, transform the world.

In each episode, I dive deep into the world of fundraising, sharing valuable insights, strategies, and success stories that you can immediately put to use to supercharge your fundraising results. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's something here for everyone.

We don't stop at theories and concepts; we bring you focused, highly relevant interviews that explore the latest trends, best practices, and answers to the burning questions that matter most in the nonprofit sector today. You'll get the inside scoop on what's working, what's changing, and how you can stay ahead of the game.

And let me give you fair warning – I'm not afraid to go on a little rant every now and then. Sometimes, a passionate discussion is just what we need to spark those new ideas and innovations.

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With heaps of gratitude,
Tammy Zonker
Major Gift Expert & Keynote Speaker

About your host

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Tammy Zonker

Hey, There! I’m Tammy Zonker.

I'm the Founder and President of Fundraising Transformed and host of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast.

I’ve been a major gifts strategist and fundraising expert for more than 25 years. I’m also a certified AFP Master Trainer and international speaker.

I’ve Led and trained thousands of nonprofit social service organizations, private schools, colleges and universities, and healthcare organizations to collectively raise more than a half-billion dollars — and counting — including a single gift of $27.1M.

I have served as adjunct faculty at Indiana University and technical editor for Wiley Publishing’s “Fundraising for Dummies” third edition.

I currently serve as Dean at the Institute for Charitable Giving, a member of the AFP International Conference Education Committee, a member of the Nonprofit Quarterly’s Editorial Advisory Board, a contributing writer to NonProfit PRO, and an advisor at Capital Campaign Pro.

I would love to learn more about the amazing work you do and explore how we can work together to take your fundraising to the next, next level.