In Part 2 of this Fit Fundraising Podcast conversation, Roy Jones and Cheryl Hackett, Director of Development at the Wyoming Rescue Mission, dive deeper into what truly connects donors across generations—stories and relationships.
major gifts
Generational Giving with Cheryl Hackett: Bridging Boomers, Gen X, and the Next Wave of Donors
In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with Cheryl Hackett, Director of Development at the Wyoming Rescue Mission, to explore how giving habits are evolving across generations. From Boomers who still love their direct mail to Millennials and Gen Z donors who live online, Cheryl shares how her team bridges the gap through multichannel fundraising, storytelling, and faith-driven connection. It’s a practical, hope-filled conversation about building trust, embracing innovation, and inspiring generosity that lasts.
The Power of Mastermind Groups: Iron Sharpens Iron for Fundraisers
What if the secret to breakthrough fundraising wasn’t another conference, but a small circle of peers sharpening one another? In this episode of the Fit Fundraising Podcast, Roy Jones sits down with marketing professor and nonprofit strategist Dina Jones to unpack the power of mastermind groups. Together, they explore how masterminds go beyond networking, providing nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and CEOs with a safe, faith-centered space to share challenges, spark creativity, and build confidence. From her first experience in Nashville to co-leading groups today, Dina shares how masterminds can transform isolation into innovation—and how this cutting-edge approach is shaping the future of fundraising.
Donna Lucas of Joni and Friends: Building Donor Trust in Uncertain Times Pt. 2
In Part 2 of our conversation with Donna Lucas, Chief Marketing Officer at Joni and Friends, we explore what it takes to lead effective fundraising in today’s fast-moving, often unpredictable nonprofit landscape. From segmenting donor audiences with the help of AI to preparing leadership and fundraisers for economic plateaus, Donna shares actionable insights shaped by decades of experience in both the corporate and ministry worlds.
Donna Lucas of Joni and Friends: Building Donor Trust in Uncertain Times Pt. 1
What does it take to lead fundraising and marketing at one of the most trusted ministries in the world? Donna Lucas, Chief Marketing Officer of Joni and Friends, joins the Fit Fundraising Podcast to share how her team inspires generosity through consistency, transparency, and a mission-centered message. From adapting to economic uncertainty to creating omnichannel campaigns that meet donors where they are, Donna offers practical, powerful insight for nonprofit leaders who want to build lasting trust—and lasting impact.
Footprint Donors…
I recently met with a major donor to a rescue mission who has given over $25 million to his favorite charities over the past few years. Amazingly, he’s 80 years old and still working every day. In fact, he travels to China every month to oversee one of his new...
LEGENDS of Fit Fundraising, Interview with Tony Marciano, President Emeritus of the Charlotte Rescue Mission
In this episode, Roy Jones talks with 28 year nonprofit legend, Tony Marciano, president emeritus, of the Charlotte Rescue Mission, about nonprofit leadership and the challenges facing frontline fundraisers in America today. With emphasis on human services and work with homeless shelter guests; connecting to the emotions of the donor, learn strategies for campaigns that get results.
Give it a Rest: Why DEI is not WOKE
In a recent public statement, Fit Fundraising, openly supported Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), emphasizing its importance for marginalized members in nonprofit development programs. This move sparked unexpected backlash, with accusations of embracing ‘woke’ left-wing politics. However, DEI and ‘woke-ism’ are not the same. DEI aims to create inclusive environments, appreciating and meeting everyone where they are, and removing barriers based on capability, education, and opportunity. Unlike the divisive nature of ‘woke-ism,’ DEI unites us and strengthens our communities. At Fit Fundraising, we stand for what is right, not for going ‘woke.’ Join us in supporting true diversity and inclusion.
Embrace Diversity, Equip People of Color in Fundraising and Development
As corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs have come under attack, some nonprofits have retreated, leaving new employees and executives unsupported and in need. Now is the time to train, equip, and empower people of color to become better fundraisers and nonprofit leaders.
Making the Ask: Closing Your Fundraising Events With Success
Learn the five key strategies to make “the ask” more effective, from knowing your audience to the art of the pledge. Don’t miss out on these invaluable tips to boost your fundraising efforts!
