287: The Fundraising Reset: Patience, Gratitude, and Real Connection with Trevor Nelson

Technology may be a powerful tool of fundraising, but human connection seems far superior to anything else.  Fundraising is a sector shaped by digital tools, automation, and constant urgency, but the real work of fundraising always comes to its roots: relationships. Organizations that are smart enough to slow down and focus on people create stronger, more sustainable support from their donors. At its heart, fundraising isn’t just about strategy or tools but remains a deeply human practice built on connection and care. Trevor Nelson is the Chief Gratitude Officer at HGA Fundraising, a family-run company that helps nonprofits raise money through auction items and event fundraising. HGA has grown into a 20+ person team built around collaboration, humor, and shared purpose, beginning only as a small partnership with his best friend. Through Hey Nonprofit, his media platform, including a podcast, weekly webinars, and free coaching, Trevor works to uplift fundraisers and share practical insights that help organizations strengthen relationships and raise more for their missions. He joined Mallory today to talk about the importance of personal connection, gratitude, and genuine interactions in fundraising.  In this episode, you will be able to: Understand why, even in a tech savvy world, fundraising remains a relationship-driven profession. Learn why gratitude and intentional appreciation are essential for building lasting donor relationships. Understand how overwhelm and urgency can affect fundraisers. Grasp why uninterrupted time for oneself is crucial for thinking and reflection. Learn the importance of pausing when overwhelm hits. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Practivated. Practivated delivers AI-powered donor conversation simulations that let fundraisers practice in a private, judgment‑free space—building confidence, refining messaging, and improving outcomes before the real conversation even begins. Developed by fundraising experts with real‑time coaching at its core, it’s the smart way to walk into every donor interaction calm, prepared, and ready to connect. Learn more at practivated.com. 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.