Pre-Conference Workshop Descriptions

Wednesday, July 31 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Copywriting Clinic for Direct Response Fundraisers

Presenters: Amy Sukol, CFRE, Lautman Maska Neill & Co. Rayna Clarke, Lautman Maska Neill & Co.and Vicki Viera, Lautman Maska Neill & Co.

Great fundraising copy is both an art and a science. In this information-packed pre-conference workshop, attendees will learn everything they need to know to craft, edit or direct the creation of winning fundraising copy. We'll start the day by covering the elements of successful on and offline fundraising copy, how to effectively review and edit copy as well as guidelines for crafting ethical fundraising copy.

We'll break into smaller groups to do some copy editing in real time. Then we'll pivot to specialized copy, focusing on crafting messages for renewals, planned giving, monthly giving and capital campaigns. In the second part of the day, we'll cover how to work with our fundraising partners. We'll start with a discussion of how to work with copywriters. Then, we'll break into groups where those who are working for non-profits can discuss how to best work with their agency partners and how those who work for agencies can best work with their non-profit partners. This workshop will provide knowledge and skills that you can take back to your agency or organization right away to increase the effectiveness of your direct response fundraising copy.

Dream, Decide, and Deliver: Define Your Strategic Vision and Make It a Reality

Presenters: Steve Beshuk, Benefactor Group and Kaitlyn Kendall-Sperry, Benefactor Group

An effective strategic plan is comprised of three key parts: dreaming about the future your organization wants to create, deciding where to say “yes” and “no,” and doing the work to realize the dream – delivering it. Of the three, one is inspiring, engaging, and without limits (and we’d say more fun). The others require discipline, diligence, stick-to-itiveness, and accountability (and can be a lot less fun). Much like getting in shape, in the beginning, the energy, intention, and motivation are high. But, because we are human, the zeal fades over time and, before we know it, we’re not where we hoped to be. It can feel daunting to catch up and we may feel like it's too late to start over. So, how do we mitigate this all-too-human tendency? It begins with a well-structured “dream phase” that considers the real-time implications of the choices the organization is considering. Then, it requires applying data-driven “decision science” to determine priorities, strategic value, complexity, and costs of potential initiatives. This all results in a deliberate process to select the right priorities, objectives, and projects. The outcome is an inspirational yet realistic plan that has defined budgets, project owners, and deadlines – and a scorecard you will use to keep it on track.

From Insights to Action: Translating Behavioral Science into Fundraising Strategy

Presenters: Kevin Schulman, DonorVoice and Kiki Koutmeridou, DonorVoice

Why do people give and is it the same answer for everybody? The first question is knowable, the 2nd is a resounding no. Join us for an inspiration-filled workshop to unpack these answers.

You'll learn how to apply psychology and behavioral science to your messaging, design, segmentation, cadence, and journey development in digital and direct mail. We'll cover the why and how-to's for,

Segmenting donors based on their innate motivators.
Tailoring messaging to match motivation
Tailor design and format to match motivation.
Use linguistic science insights to make your copy feel personal and highly readable.
Building a multi-channel journey that reduces irritation while increasing response and brand building.
Applying nudge theory to last-mile decisions on your giving forms (online and offline).
How to measure and act on the supporter experience.

Your Case for Support: From Creation to Activation

Presenters: Nana Oppong, CCS Fundraising and Jennifer Devon, CCS Fundraising

A case for support, also called a case statement, helps inform potential donors about your funding needs and helps align your nonprofit’s vision to the donor’s philanthropic priorities. A thoughtfully created case for support tells potential donors and volunteers who you are, what you do, where you are, who you serve, and why. Additionally, a strong case for support can often inspire increased, transformational gifts from current donors.

Join us for a practical workshop designed to empower nonprofit leaders in developing compelling cases for support that will resonate with donors. In this session, we will dive into the essential elements of a persuasive case, discuss the art of tailoring your message for maximum impact, and discuss integrated stakeholder communication strategies.