The Fun Table - Fundraising That Works: Creative Nonprofit Events with Lasting Impact

In this heart-forward episode, hosts Libby Sundgren and Alysse Bryson gather with Kristin Graham, Amy Liz Harrison, Dele Downs Kooley, and Sarah Caples Noble to dive deep into the art (and heart) of nonprofit and fundraising events. From unforgettable gala moments to innovative carnival-style fundraisers, the group shares stories, strategies, and plenty of laughs about what makes giving events meaningful, effective, and fun. Key takeaway: No matter your time, talent, or treasure, there's a way for everyone to contribute to causes they care about, and the right sprinkle of fun and connection can make philanthropy truly unforgettable. Timestamps:  [00:00] – Creative ways to support nonprofits (and buy your way out of events!) [02:12] – Meet the group [05:04] – Most memorable nonprofit/fundraising events—stories from the field [08:37] – Unique event activations: “Canstruction” food drive & carnival fundraisers [09:35] – The layered impact of Providence's Festival of Trees [15:22] – Celebrity Steak-Out — personal connections to cancer fundraising [17:16] – The power of storytelling in successful nonprofit events [18:42] – What makes you want to give? The fun factor, emotion, and connection [21:05] – Stories that inspire: American Heart Association & paddle raises [26:49] – Gamification, prizes, and the art of bidding wars [30:00] – “Flexing for good:” The psychology of public generosity [32:01] – Oddest auction items (including goats & goldfish!) [33:01] – glassybaby collections: The unofficial badge of Seattle fundraisers [36:01] – Inventory hacks + tips for organizing your swag [37:04] – Shameless plug: Dreaming in Analog — philanthropic concert in Seattle [41:17] – The many ways to give: Time, talent, treasure, and connection [43:41] – How to find your philanthropic calling & closing thoughts Resources & Links: -Event: Dreaming in Analog -Get your own glassybaby -Meet The Fun Table: Kristin Graham, Amy Liz Harrison, Dele Downs Kooley, Sarah Caples Noble -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn Connect with Us: -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow -Facebook: @Beats Working Show -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST Follow & Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners. BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.