The Ripple Effect of Learning: How One Course Transformed the Literacy Council of Sarasota's Fundraising Results

In this episode, we explore how "Principles & Techniques of Fundraising," a four-day, in-person training of Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy's The Fund Raising School, equips nonprofit leaders with practical, research-backed tools to strengthen fundraising efforts.  Tom Melville, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Sarasota, and Board President Laura Randall, who attended the course through TPF's Fueling Dynamic Fundraising initiative, share how the program helped them refine their case for support, engage their board more effectively, and take a more strategic approach to donor stewardship. With insights from both a seasoned fundraiser and a former development director, this conversation highlights how the right training can drive clarity, confidence, and measurable results.Timestamps 00:00 – Intro to Fueling Dynamic Fundraising and guest introductions03:40 – Laura on learning something new after 15 years in fundraising06:30 – Tom on the power of peer learning in the cohort model09:50 – Rethinking their case for support and internal culture13:06 – A $100K donor becomes a $150K donor19:45 – Board chair + ED: why attending together mattered26:10 – Strategic planning, rebranding, and ongoing TPF supportLinks to Learn More Fueling Dynamic FundraisingLiteracy Council of Sarasota WebsiteBlog: Fueling Dynamic Fundraising Lessons That Stick With Experienced LeadersConnect Beyond The BlogLaura Randall LinkedInThe Literacy Council of Sarasota LinkedInWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog!Join The Journey