263: Reframing Fundraising - Unlocking Donor Potential with a Data-Driven Approach with Karen Kelly

An episode of the What the Fundraising podcast, hosted by Mallory Erickson, titled "263: Reframing Fundraising - Unlocking Donor Potential with a Data-Driven Approach with Karen Kelly" was published on October 14, 2025 and runs 30 minutes.

October 14, 2025 ·30m · What the Fundraising

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Summary

Although people often perceive fundraising as refined conversations and confident asks, the reality is far more complex. Many fundraisers often struggle with self-doubt, suspicious of whether they fit into the category of a ‘good fundraiser.’ Whether it’s redefining what skills matter, reframing the role of data, or turning challenges like lapsed donors into opportunities, this episode explores how shifting perspectives can open new possibilities. From embracing experimentation to dismantling the myths that hold back individuals and teams, this episode is packed with insights on how to reframe fundraising. Meet Karen Kelly, the Development Manager at the Anne Arundel County Food Bank in Crownsville, Maryland, where she oversees database management, recurring giving, and new donor outreach as part of a small but dedicated team. Karen co-founded and led Through the Heart with her husband, a nonprofit providing pregnancy loss resources and support, where she managed day-to-day operations for 10 years before joining the food bank. Holding a doctorate in educational leadership, she also has experience in higher education as both staff and an adjunct instructor. Fundraising for Karen was unexpected, like for most people, and has become her passion and expertise. She joined us today to explore how nonprofits can use data-driven strategies to strengthen fundraising efforts. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how data can guide strategic fundraising decisions and boost donor engagement. Discover why re-engaging lapsed donors is worth the effort and how to do it effectively. Learn ways to shift from a scarcity mindset to seeing fundraising as an opportunity. Gain practical tips for tailoring donor communication to maximize impact. Learn why the myth of the “perfect extroverted fundraiser” is misleading. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Zeffy is a game-changing fundraising platform built exclusively for nonprofits. Unlike other platforms that take a cut of your hard work through credit card and transaction fees, Zeffy is 100% free from transaction and platform fees. That means every dollar you raise goes directly toward fueling your mission. Trusted by more than 50,000 nonprofits, Zeffy empowers organizations of every size to streamline their fundraising with tools to collect donations, sell tickets, and manage donors all in one place. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point