622. Hold Fast: Hold Fast: Building Donor Trust in Uncertain Times (Mike Duerksen)
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Overview
Meet Mike, CEO of BuildGood 🤝. He’s here to share a thoughtful, grounded approach to fundraising in uncertain times.
In this episode, we dig into why “Today’s growth comes from today’s donors” isn’t just a clever phrase—it’s a mindset shift. From the game-changing nine-word email to the fundraising flywheel and the power of donor celebration, Mike’s sharing practical strategies that can turn transactional giving into transformational relationships.
He also offers insight into identifying multi-year supporters and using donor surveys to surface major gift potential—reminding us that growth doesn’t have to come from starting over, but from going deeper with the people already in your corner.
With a gentle reminder that consistency is key, Mike uses the analogy of gardening to illustrate how small, steady actions build trust over time. And in a world leaning into automation, he makes a compelling case for the enduring power of human connection.
Tune in for thoughtful insights and practical strategies to deepen donor relationships and fundraise with more intention. 🎧
Learn:
Why staying grounded in values in crucial during uncertainty.
Donor retention is key to sustainable growth.
Engagement strategies should focus on building relationships.
Consistency in communication leads to better donor relationships.
Use simple, direct communication methods with donors.
Identify and prioritize committed donors for deeper engagement.
Reporting back to donors builds trust and accountability.
Fundraising is about human connection and emotional labor.
Homework:
Block time + spend time in your CRM
Pull a list of who has made at least 3 gifts to your organization, and who hasn’t made a gift in 18 months
These are fairly committed donors, and it’s been 18 months, so they’re dropping off.
They might still love you and not even realize they haven’t made a gift in 18 months
Reach out to them this month.
Make it a 9 word email, a post card, a phone call, or ringless voice mail (Slybroadcast)
Resources Mentioned
Ringless Voicemails - https://www.slybroadcast.com/
Today’s Guest
Mike Duerksen, CEO of BuildGood.
“In uncertain times, we all crave certainty.”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Navigating uncertainty in Nonprofit Leadership (02:23)
The Importance of Donor Retention (03:40)
Strategies for Engaging Existing Donors (05:04)
Identifying and Prioritizing Donor Relationships (09:12)
Effective Communication with Donors (12:25)
Building Consistency in Donor Engagement (19:42)
The Role of Reporting in Fundraising (23:28)
Homework for Fundraisers (26:39)
Mike’s One Good Thing: What is the most human thing you can do right now? (30:00)
Powerful Quotes
“Create a rhythm of listening to your donors, engaging them consistently, and connecting through thoughtful 1:1 or small group interactions.” - Mike Duerksen
“We all want to feel like we are making progress as an organization.” - Mike Duerksen
“Recessions, crises, uncertain times, it doesn’t matter. Everyone that makes it through are trusted brands.” -Mike Duerksen
"Healthy things can't help but grow. If you just focus on the health of the thing and doing all the right things, it will grow." Mike Duerksen
"We get to be merchants of joy. There are real problems in the world. But guess what? You're entirely not powerless about it." - Mike Duerksen
Mike’s One Good Thing: "Look back and borrow strength from the elders.”
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