Using AI for better nonprofit fundraising with Josh Hirsch
Release Date: 05/20/2025
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[Re-release] Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall
Nonprofit Mission: Impact
Explore how nonprofit leaders can cultivate grounded presence, clarify their sphere of control, and stay anchored in mission and values while leading through ongoing uncertainty and disruption. As nonprofit leaders continue navigating unprecedented levels of uncertainty, this “learning out loud” episode of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton and guest Danielle Marshall offers a grounded, human-centered exploration of how leaders can steady themselves—and their organizations—amid chaos. Drawing on lived experience, strategic frameworks, and resilience practices, the...
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Navigating Through the In-Between with Interim Nonprofit Leadership with Erin Stratford Owens
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In episode 133 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton and guest Paula Brantner, workplace fairness consultant and founder of Accountability Ignited, unpack the real challenges nonprofits face in preventing harassment, bullying, and misconduct. They talk about: The often-overlooked gaps in nonprofit systems—particularly around reporting mechanisms—and The false sense of security many mission-driven organizations have about their immunity to these issues. How to take a proactive, values-based approach rooted in trauma-informed practices, Why codes...
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In episode 132 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Justine Krank discuss the realities and nuances of pursuing US government grants for nonprofit organizations. They discuss: common misconceptions including that government grants equals federal grants The challenges and compliance demands that come with government dollars. How to decode complex RFPs -- the hidden requirements that can make or break an application, and how to get an organization truly grant-ready — not just on paper, but with the capacity to manage the work. why the human side of...
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When the Stakes Are High: Centering People in Tough Nonprofit Leadership Moments with Melissa Kessler
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Nonprofits Under Attack: Defending Democracy, Community, and Innovation with Carol Hamilton
Nonprofit Mission: Impact
In episode 130 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol reflects on five years of podcasting and the sobering state of the nonprofit sector in 2025. While celebrating milestones, she also underscores the challenges nonprofits face amidst unprecedented political attacks, funding cuts, and threats to long-standing principles like nonpartisanship. Despite these challenges, Carol highlights the resilience, innovation, and critical role nonprofits play in society—from filling essential gaps to fueling social movements, strengthening democracy, and sparking innovation. She calls on nonprofit leaders to...
info_outlineIn episode 123 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Josh Hirsch discuss using AI in fundraising and donor engagement.
They explore:
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The evolution of AI, and its potential to enhance how organizations connect with donors.
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How to train AI tools effectively, leveraging data responsibly, and using AI to enhance—rather than replace—human-driven strategy.
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Why nonprofit leaders who embrace AI thoughtfully do not need to fear the technology
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
The Evolution and Role of AI in Nonprofits - [00:010:00]
How Nonprofits Can Use AI Effectively - [00:12:31]
Training AI to Match Your Brand’s Voice - [00:16:51]
Best Practices for AI Implementation - [00:20:31]
Ethical Considerations and Policy Development - [00:25:25]
A Case Study: AI in Action for Donor Engagement - [00:22:00]
Future Trends in AI and Nonprofit Work - [00:27:56]
Final Advice for Nonprofit Leaders - [00:33:02]
GUEST BIO:
Josh Hirsch is an accomplished nonprofit strategist and educator specializing in digital communications and fundraising innovation. With over two decades of experience, Josh has driven impact for organizations through roles such as Director of Mission and Communication at Susan G. Komen Florida and faculty member at The Fund Raising School. He currently serves as Education and Training Strategist at Fundraise Up, where he leads the development of cutting-edge donor engagement initiatives, including the Modern Digital Fundraising Essentials certificate program. Josh is a generative AI expert, leveraging emerging technologies to optimize nonprofit workflows and enhance donor experiences. A dynamic speaker and consultant, Josh is passionate about empowering organizations to overcome barriers to giving and achieve sustainable growth. Connect with him at theaidude.ai or through his AI Dude podcast.
IMPORTANT LINKS & RESOURCES:
Soukup Strategic Solutions, Inc.
Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
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