669. How to Build Trust With Funders (and Know When to Walk Away) - Gloria Dixon
Listen to this episode
Overview
Trust isn’t built in boardrooms, it’s built in community.
In this episode, Gloria Dixon (Director of Philanthropy + Executive Director, BECU Foundation) joins us for a real talk on what it takes to share power and reimagine funding through a trust-based lens. From her journey in Milwaukee to leading community-centered giving in the Pacific Northwest, Gloria opens up about what’s shifting in philanthropy and what still needs to.
Together, they dig into why multi-year, unrestricted support matters, how authentic relationships drive impact, and what it means to show up with empathy (not just reports and metrics). It’s hopeful, heart-forward, and packed with practical wisdom for anyone navigating the changing landscape of nonprofit funding.
“Not all money is good money. Sometimes you might partner with a funder that’s just not the right funder for you.”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Sector Challenges and Funding Changes (00:51)
Gloria's Background and Upbringing (03:18)
Disconnects Between Funders and Nonprofits (05:57)
BECU’s Community-Focused Funding Approach (08:09)
Multi-Year Funding Importance (10:32)
Funding Friction and Reporting Challenges (14:17)
Trust-Based Partnership Practices (17:58)
Employee Engagement and Community Impact (20:53)
Advice for Nonprofits: Building Trust (23:11)
Gloria’s Personal Story of Philanthropy (25:38)
Gloria’s One Good Thing (29:07)
Powerful Quotes
"Sometimes you’ve got to find new ways to report—and storytelling is it. Photos, videos, inviting people to share their own story… that’s how you build real relationships without making it so hard." - Gloria Dixon
"Everyone has a story. You may not look alike, but you probably share social or economic experiences that shaped who you are." - Gloria Dixon
"We spend a lot of time getting to know our partners first—building trust and making sure it’s the right fit before we ever give the money." - Gloria Dixon
"When you get everyone in the same room, you realize they just want to see good come from their work—no competition, just shared purpose." - Gloria Dixon
"Students need more than scholarships. Many face food insecurity, housing challenges, or health issues and our dollars can help meet those needs too." - Gloria Dixon
"Every single day that we get to do this work, to be a part of this community is so valuable." - Gloria Dixon
Gloria’s One Good Thing: “Never take a day for granted.”
Connect with Gloria
Connect with Jon
Connect with Becky
Come be part of the We Are For Good Community—totally free.
Join fellow changemakers, share takeaways from this working session, and keep collaborating in a space built for connection, inspiration, and real impact: www.weareforgoodcommunity.com
Say hi👇
LinkedIn / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube
