In this episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," host Matt Stockman dives into two crucial, interconnected topics for your nonprofit's financial health: the incredible benefits of monthly giving programs and critical pitfalls to avoid with high-capacity donors. Discover how consistent support can provide peace of mind and predictability, and learn a simple formula to determine your ideal monthly ask. Plus, hear real-world case studies about the dangers of over-reliance on a few large donors and strategies to build a broad, diverse funding base for lasting impact.

In This Episode, You'll Discover:

• The Power of Consistent Support: Why establishing a monthly giving program is essential for stable, predictable income and more accurate budgeting.

• Deeper Donor Relationships: How monthly giving fosters a sense of partnership and transforms donors into highly engaged advocates for your mission.

• Crafting Your Monthly Ask: Two practical methods to determine what to ask for from your monthly supporters, including a per-unit cost approach and a formula based on your average single gift.

• Avoiding the "Single Donor Trap": The critical risks of relying too heavily on one or a few major donors, illustrated by compelling case studies.

• Strategies for Diversification: Why building a broad base of support from the outset is vital for your nonprofit's long-term sustainability and resilience.

Resources Mentioned:

• Book a Free Consultation with Matt: If you're facing a specific question or issue with your nonprofit, book a no-pressure, no-obligation chat with Matt to discuss your challenges and explore potential next steps. Find the link on the Nonprofit Launch Plan website. Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan

• Free 5-Step Fundraising Workbook & Videos: Get free access to an easy-to-use workbook and 5 short videos that walk you through the essential steps to confidently invite others to partner with your nonprofit financially. Available at Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits

Connect with Us:

• Website: nonprofitlaunchplan.com
• Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
  
  
• Subscribe to the Podcast: Don't miss future episodes!
  
  
  

Welcome to the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! In this episode, host Matt Stockman sits down with special guest Bob Lonac, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership with a remarkable career, including roles at Young Life, International Justice Mission, and CRISTA. Bob is also the author of "Live Large: Seven Lasting Lessons for Navigating Life's Twists and Turns" and a sought-after consultant specializing in the crucial relationship between a nonprofit CEO (or Executive Director) and their Board of Directors.

This episode is a must-listen for startup nonprofits, small nonprofits, and anyone new to a leadership role, offering practical insights to establish a strong foundation.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Understanding Core Roles: Bob Lonac breaks down the fundamental differences between the CEO/Executive Director's responsibilities and the Board of Directors' functions in a nonprofit.
• "Working In" vs. "Working On" the Mission: Discover the critical distinction between day-to-day operational work and strategic oversight, and why your board should primarily focus on "working on the mission."
• Building Your Board: Learn what to look for when adding initial board members to ensure a healthy and effective governance structure.
• The Power of Blue Ocean Strategy: Bob introduces the concept of Blue Ocean Strategy and how identifying a unique niche can significantly impact your nonprofit's success and growth, drawing examples from organizations like International Justice Mission (IJM).
• Key Board Responsibilities: Get clear on the essential duties of a nonprofit board, including CEO evaluation, ensuring financial health, and providing strategic guidance.
• Establishing Clear Boundaries: Practical advice on how to unwind situations where board members are too involved in daily operations and how to foster a spirit of openness and transparency.
• Speaking with One Voice: The importance of the board making unified decisions through resolutions, not individual directives.
• Board Evolution and Term Limits: Why and how a nonprofit board should evolve over time, including the benefits of implementing term limits for board members.
• The Importance of Humility in Leadership: Bob shares a profound insight from the Harvard Business Review on the most important quality of a great leader – finding people better than you and empowering them.

Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders:

• Define Roles Clearly: From day one, establish clear job descriptions for both the CEO/Executive Director and the Board. The CEO sets the vision and strategy; the board hires and evaluates the CEO based on outcomes and oversees long-term success and financial health.
• Strategic Board Engagement: Your board's primary role is to "work on the mission"—focusing on future planning, governance, and accountability, not day-to-day tasks.
• Embrace Feedback: Annual, written evaluations of the CEO are crucial for growth and accountability, provided they are delivered with a spirit of support for the CEO's success.
• Don't Go It Alone: Building a successful nonprofit requires a team of diverse talents and a deep commitment from leadership.

Resources Mentioned:

• Guest: Bob Lonac
• Bob Lonac's Website: boblonac.com
• Book: "Live Large: Seven Lasting Lessons for Navigating Life's Twists and Turns" by Bob Lonac
• Book: "Blue Ocean Strategy" by W. Chan Kim

Connect with Nonprofit Launch Plan:

• Subscribe: Don't miss future episodes – subscribe to the Nonprofit Launch Plan podcast!
• Free Consultation: Book a free, no-obligation call with Matt Stockman to discuss your nonprofit journey: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
• Free Resource: Access the "Fearless Fundraising Framework" workbook and videos to build your fundraising confidence: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
• Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com

Unlock the power of storytelling to transform your nonprofit's marketing! In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host and nonprofit growth coach Matt Stockman dives deep into "From Impact to Influence: Telling Your Nonprofit's Stories Well". Discover why compelling stories create emotional connections, simplify complex ideas, and inspire action – from donations to volunteerism. Learn the crucial difference between a "story" and a mere "endorsement," and get practical examples of nonprofits effectively using narratives to drive their mission.

Matt breaks down the "Key Elements of a Compelling Impact Story," providing you with a clear framework: Character, Challenge, Solution, Outcome, and Call to Action. Get essential tips on focusing on individuals, using vivid details, ensuring authenticity, and building a valuable story archive.

Don't miss this episode if you're a startup, small, or growing nonprofit looking to boost engagement, secure more funding, and truly showcase your incredible impact.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why storytelling is the most powerful marketing tool for nonprofits.

• The fundamental difference between impact stories and general endorsements.

• The 5 key elements of a compelling nonprofit story (Character, Challenge, Solution, Outcome, Call to Action).

• Practical tips for crafting authentic and ethical stories.

Connect with Us:

• Website:Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
• Book a Call: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
• Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
• LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
  
  

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