126: Unicorns and Rainbows and Care Bears | Giving Tuesday with Ephraim Gopin

126: Unicorns and Rainbows and Care Bears | Giving Tuesday with Ephraim Gopin

Author: Jess Birken, MNM, JD November 28, 2024 Duration: 21:04

Hey there, nonprofit enthusiasts! In this episode of Charity Therapy, Jess is joined by her good friend and nonprofit fundraising guru, Ephraim Gopin, to chat about the highs and lows of Giving Tuesday and year-end fundraising. Spoiler alert: Ephraim isn't the biggest fan of Giving Tuesday.

We dive into listener questions, including one from someone whose Giving Tuesday campaign didn't quite hit the mark. We discuss setting realistic goals and understanding donor moods—especially during the chaos of Thanksgiving when everyone's minds are on turkey and Black Friday deals.

Ephraim and I also explore alternative approaches, like Gratitude Tuesday, which is all about appreciating your donors instead of chasing after their wallets. Ephraim shares some fantastic advice on managing board members' expectations, emphasizing the importance of building relationships rather than just focusing on the almighty dollar. Plus, we highlight why sometimes skipping a Giving Tuesday campaign can actually be a strategic move backed by solid data.

Thanks for tuning in, and remember: fundraising is about building bonds, not just bucks!

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Tearing apart Giving Tuesday. Spoiler: Ephraim Gopin gives it two thumbs down!

  • Setting goals is great, but setting realistic goals is even better

  • Thanksgiving Vibes vs. December Giving Feels: Newsflash! People are more about turkey and travel during Thanksgiving

  • Hitting board members with data and implementing Gratitude Tuesday

  • Keep trying new things and learn from both your wins and your epic fails

Resources from this Episode

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Sign up for the 1832 Communications newsletter: 1832communications.com/nonprofit-newsletter

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.


Ever find yourself wishing for a direct line to seasoned nonprofit leaders, a chance to unpack the real challenges that don’t make it into the glossy annual reports? Charity Therapy is that conversation. With host Jess Birken, who brings her background as a lawyer and a Master of Nonprofit Management to the table, each session feels like pulling up a chair with a trusted advisor. The discussions move beyond theory, tackling the granular details of operations that leaders actually face-whether it’s navigating a tricky IRS compliance question, rebuilding a fundraising strategy from the ground up, or managing the complex interpersonal dynamics that define any mission-driven team. This podcast digs into the operational heart of the sector, offering pragmatic insights you can apply directly to your own work. It’s a resource built on the understanding that running a nonprofit is a continuous practice of problem-solving, and Jess guides these explorations with clarity and a deep respect for the work. Tune in for honest dialogue that treats the daily grind of management as the serious and nuanced craft that it is.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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