177 - Small Events, Big Impact (Fundraising Events, Galas, Donor Cultivation): Andrew Robison

It's back-to-school season, which means development teams are mapping out their fundraising calendars—and facing the same ol' dilemma. Do you throw a glitzy gala for 500 people, or host intimate wine tastings in board members' living rooms? Big events look impressive on paper (and in those Instagram posts). But, here's what most organizations don't calculate: the hidden costs of staff burnout, volunteer fatigue, and months of planning that could be spent actually building relationships with donors. Andrew makes a compelling case for why he's ditching the ballroom for the living room. Spoiler alert: It's not just about saving money—it's about creating genuine connections that turn one-time attendees into lifelong supporters.