649. Retention Is a Love Language: Using AI to Communicate With More Care (Not Just More Often) Crystal Clark, Amina Mohamed + Michael Mitchell
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Overview
Retention is about relationships. But most donor communications either feel too rushed or too robotic. This session is about doing things differently with the power of AI, done responsibly.
We’re sitting down with three organizations that are using AI to help them show up better for their donors: writing magnetic messaging, personalizing with care + actually deepen connection. We’ll talk about how they’re saving time, scaling touchpoints, and staying true to their voice along the way.
You’ll hear the tools they’re using, the prompts that are working, and where they’ve drawn the line on what not to automate. It’s real talk on using AI to build trust… not just create more output.
Learn:
Why Retention is a love language that requires intentional communication
How to Build relationships with donors is essential for long-term success
How AI can enhance communication but should not replace human connection
Ethical storytelling is crucial in nonprofit work to avoid exploitation
Understanding donor motivations helps tailor engagement strategies
Why Transparency and authenticity build trust with donors
Why using data responsibly can enhance storytelling without compromising ethics
“We will never manipulate donor emotions for conversion of corporate donations.”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Retention as a Love Language (05:14)
Building Lasting Relationships with Donors (10:38)
Using AI to Build Trust (15:54)
Ethics in Storytelling and Communication (21:23)
Practical Tools and Workflows for Retention (33:36)
Powerful Quotes
“We have to make sure we’re being ethical in telling every story.” Crystal Clark
“Showing your donors the impact they create and start there.” - Amina Mohamed
“Make sure people feel seen and heard, make sure you notice.'“- Michael Mitchell
“It’s about centering people at the story, rememebing teh donor is the hero of their own story. Put them in the centre of communication.” - Michael Mitchell
"AI hallucinates, and so we have to be the backstop." - Michael Mitchell
"Retention is a love language, and being authentic is key.” - Crystal Clark
"Donor retention is love in action." - Amina Mohamed
"AI can't do that. Build those connections." - Amina Mohamed
"If you lose what makes you human, you've lost the battle." - Amina Mohamed
Connect with Crystal
Connect with Amina
Connect with Michael
Connect with Jon
Connect with Becky
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