Ep. 78 Part 2: How Personalized Donor Communication Builds Long-Term Loyalty with James Meisner

A Conversation with Emily Rasmussen: Giving Circles, Community, and the Future of Collective Philanthropy

In this inspiring episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Emily Rasmussen [https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-rasmussen-02816619/], founder and CEO of Grapevine [https://www.grapevine.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com], to explore the growing movement of giving circles and how collaborative philanthropy is reshaping the future of charitable giving. Emily shares how giving circles empower everyday people to pool their donations, learn together, and collectively support causes they care about most. Through community, conversation, and shared decision-making, she explains how philanthropy becomes more accessible, relational, and impactful for donors at every financial level. Throughout the conversation, Emily highlights how giving circles democratize philanthropy by creating space for more people to participate meaningfully in charitable giving. Rather than limiting philanthropy to large foundations or high-net-worth donors, giving circles encourage people to come together with modest contributions that collectively create significant impact. “We’re all philanthropists,” Emily explains, emphasizing that anyone can give in a meaningful way regardless of income level. The model not only amplifies donations, but also creates opportunities for education, collaboration, and deeper connection around community needs and social issues. One of the most compelling themes in the discussion is the role giving circles play in strengthening belonging and trust at a time when many communities feel increasingly disconnected. Emily shares research showing that 91% of giving circle participants reported an increased sense of belonging to their community. She describes giving circles as spaces where people can come together across different backgrounds and perspectives, united not necessarily by identical viewpoints, but by shared care for their communities. “People want more connection across difference,” she notes, explaining how structured, collaborative philanthropy can help bridge divides while creating positive social engagement. The conversation also explores how technology is helping expand this movement far beyond local gatherings. Through Grapevine’s platform, giving circles can organize virtually, support nonprofits across the country, and sustain long-term recurring giving communities. Emily explains that many nonprofits are now beginning to adopt giving-circle-style models themselves, recognizing that donors increasingly want community and engagement, not just transactional fundraising asks. One particularly striking insight shared during the episode is that while only about 2% of new nonprofit donations are typically set up to recur, more than 50% of donations made through Grapevine communities are recurring gifts. This reflects a broader shift toward relationship-based philanthropy where donors feel personally connected to both the mission and the people giving alongside them. Ultimately, this conversation offers a hopeful vision for the future of philanthropy, one where generosity becomes more collaborative, more inclusive, and more deeply rooted in community. Emily’s work reminds listeners that meaningful impact does not require extraordinary wealth; it begins when ordinary people come together with shared purpose, curiosity, and a desire to make a difference together. Key Takeaways: * Giving circles help democratize philanthropy by making giving accessible to more people. * Collective giving creates stronger emotional connection, belonging, and community engagement. * Donors increasingly seek collaborative, relationship-driven philanthropic experiences. * Technology is expanding the reach and accessibility of giving circles globally. * Small recurring gifts, when pooled together, can create significant and sustainable impact. Connections: * Connect with Emily Rasmussen [https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-rasmussen-02816619/] * Connect With Rick Peck [https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/] For more ideas, stories, and practical guidance to help you give smarter and raise more, subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You [https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/o0P5UEI/thephilanthropyguy].

Ep. 80 Why Flexible Funding Matters More Than Ever For Nonprofits with Jessie Krafft

What happens when nonprofits around the world are facing greater demand for services — but fewer flexible resources to meet those growing needs? In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Jessie Krafft for a timely and thought-provoking conversation about the future of global philanthropy, donor trust, and nonprofit resilience. Drawing from insights in the newly released World Giving Report, Jessie explains how charities across more than 100 countries are navigating rising demand, shrinking government support, workforce challenges, and increasing pressure to demonstrate transparency and impact. The conversation also explores the surprising disconnect between what donors say they need from nonprofits and what organizations believe they are already providing. Throughout the episode, Jessie and Rick unpack why unrestricted and flexible funding may be more important now than ever before. From lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic to the growing importance of trust-based philanthropy, they discuss how nonprofits can build stronger long-term resilience through better communication, leadership, operational capacity, and donor relationships. Jessie also shares practical insights into nonprofit sustainability, global giving trends, transparency, storytelling, board governance, and why investing in nonprofit infrastructure is critical to solving some of the world’s most urgent challenges. Whether you are a donor, nonprofit leader, advisor, fundraiser, or someone passionate about creating meaningful impact, this episode offers a powerful global perspective on how trust, flexibility, and collaboration can strengthen the charitable sector for years to come. Contact Rick Peck: Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com [https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com/] Email: ThePhilanthropyGuy@gmail.com Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar [https://calendar.app.google/axpBWYbMzZ4UY8tK8] Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter [https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/o0P5UEI/thephilanthropyguy?source_type=lipo&source_id=670802ff-63ae-4cdc-ba37-15128b8e7e78&source_id=6b99ddc9-ad10-41eb-9ad3-f8bfc44de192&source_type=em&c=Qkt52a7LhPPWyffw4A6HpBLdRd16qiwN5qs98FATJL5iWkzcjgkK3Q==] LinkedIn: Richard Peck [https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/] Contact Jessie Krafft: Website: cafamerica.org [https://cafamerica.org/] World Giving Report: www.worldgivingreport.org [https://www.worldgivingreport.org/] LinkedIn: Jessie Krafft [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessie-krafft-94726039/]

Ep. 79 The Mindset Shifts That Unlock Generosity And Legacy with Kathleen Quinn

What if the biggest barrier to generosity is not a lack of resources — but the beliefs we carry about worth, security, and abundance? In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Kathleen Quinn for a deeply personal and transformative conversation about legacy, grief, abundance, and the mindset shifts that shape how people give. Kathleen shares the powerful story of establishing a scholarship fund with her husband just before receiving his terminal cancer diagnosis, and how that experience forever changed her perspective on time, generosity, and the importance of acting on what matters most before “someday” slips away. Throughout the conversation, Kathleen explores the emotional and psychological barriers that often prevent people from stepping fully into philanthropy, even when they have the financial ability to give. From childhood money beliefs and scarcity thinking to self-worth, boundaries, alignment, and purpose, she explains how mindset work can help people move from fear and hesitation toward greater clarity and fulfillment. The episode also dives into legacy planning, donor psychology, scholarships, intentional living, and why generosity becomes most meaningful when it aligns with personal values and lived experience. Whether you are a donor, nonprofit leader, financial advisor, or someone reflecting on the kind of impact you want to leave behind, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring reminder that meaningful giving starts with meaningful self-awareness. Contact Rick Peck: Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com [https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com/] Email: ThePhilanthropyGuy@gmail.com Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar [https://calendar.app.google/axpBWYbMzZ4UY8tK8] Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter [https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/o0P5UEI/thephilanthropyguy?source_type=lipo&source_id=670802ff-63ae-4cdc-ba37-15128b8e7e78&source_id=6b99ddc9-ad10-41eb-9ad3-f8bfc44de192&source_type=em&c=Qkt52a7LhPPWyffw4A6HpBLdRd16qiwN5qs98FATJL5iWkzcjgkK3Q==] LinkedIn: Richard Peck [https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/] Contact Kathleen Quinn: Website: kathleenaquinn.com [https://kathleenaquinn.com/] LinkedIn: Kathleen Quinn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenaquinnllc/] Email: kathleenaquinnllc@gmail.com

Ep. 78 Part 2: How Personalized Donor Communication Builds Long-Term Loyalty with James Meisner

What keeps donors engaged long after their first gift — and why do so many nonprofit communications fail to create lasting connection? In Part 2 of this conversation on Money to Give, Rick Peck welcomes back James Meisner to explore how nonprofits can build stronger donor loyalty through more personalized, authentic, and human-centered communication. Drawing from years of fundraising and donor engagement experience, James explains why storytelling, consistency, and transparency often matter far more than polished marketing campaigns alone. He also shares practical insights on designing meaningful monthly impact updates, using personal stories to deepen emotional connection, and helping donors truly see the difference their support is making. Throughout the episode, James and Rick dive into the power of personalized stewardship strategies, including leadership outreach, authentic program staff updates, handwritten notes, text messaging, and timely behind-the-scenes communication that makes donors feel genuinely seen and appreciated. The conversation also explores the role AI can play in helping resource-constrained nonprofits communicate more effectively without sacrificing authenticity or human connection. From donor psychology and storytelling to transparency, vulnerability, and relationship-building, this episode offers highly actionable lessons for nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, consultants, board members, and donors who want to strengthen trust and create more sustainable long-term giving relationships. This is Part 2 of a 2-part conversation with James Meisner. Contact Rick Peck: Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com [https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com/] Email: ThePhilanthropyGuy@gmail.com Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar [https://calendar.app.google/axpBWYbMzZ4UY8tK8] Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter [https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/o0P5UEI/thephilanthropyguy?source_type=lipo&source_id=670802ff-63ae-4cdc-ba37-15128b8e7e78&source_id=6b99ddc9-ad10-41eb-9ad3-f8bfc44de192&source_type=em&c=Qkt52a7LhPPWyffw4A6HpBLdRd16qiwN5qs98FATJL5iWkzcjgkK3Q==] LinkedIn: Richard Peck [https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/] Contact James Meisner: Website: thekiposgroup.com [https://thekiposgroup.com/] LinkedIn: The Kipos Group [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-kipos-group/]

Ep. 77 Part 1: The Donor Retention Mistakes Nonprofits Keep Making with James Meisner

Why do so many nonprofits struggle to retain donors — even after receiving generous gifts and support? In Part 1 of this conversation on Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with James Meisner to unpack some of the most common and costly donor stewardship mistakes organizations continue to make. From major gifts going completely unacknowledged to impersonal communication and weak donor engagement strategies, James shares real-world examples that reveal why donor retention remains one of the nonprofit sector’s greatest ongoing challenges. He also explains why many organizations unintentionally create transactional donor experiences instead of building authentic, long-term relationships grounded in trust and appreciation. Throughout the episode, James and Rick explore the critical role stewardship plays in fundraising success, why timely gratitude matters more than many organizations realize, and how simple communication shifts can dramatically improve donor engagement. The conversation dives into personalized donor experiences, major gift relationships, data mistakes, automation pitfalls, and the importance of making donors feel like active participants in the mission rather than passive observers. James also shares practical insights on relationship-building, coaching young fundraising professionals, and why human connection still matters more than technology alone. Whether you are a nonprofit executive, fundraiser, development officer, consultant, board member, or donor, this episode offers actionable lessons on how thoughtful stewardship can strengthen trust, increase retention, and inspire long-term generosity. This is Part 1 of a 2-part conversation with James Meisner. Contact Rick Peck: Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com [https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com/] Email: ThePhilanthropyGuy@gmail.com Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar [https://calendar.app.google/axpBWYbMzZ4UY8tK8] Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter [https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/o0P5UEI/thephilanthropyguy?source_type=lipo&source_id=670802ff-63ae-4cdc-ba37-15128b8e7e78&source_id=6b99ddc9-ad10-41eb-9ad3-f8bfc44de192&source_type=em&c=Qkt52a7LhPPWyffw4A6HpBLdRd16qiwN5qs98FATJL5iWkzcjgkK3Q==] LinkedIn: Richard Peck [https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/] Contact James Meisner: Website: thekiposgroup.com [https://thekiposgroup.com/] LinkedIn: The Kipos Group [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-kipos-group/]