Swaim Strategies

??Episode #55: Building Community with Kim Fountain?? What does it mean to create intentional spaces of belonging? This week on?The Fundraising Elevator,?we dive deep into the power of connection with Kim Fountain from the San Diego LGBTQ Community Center. Kim explores how "safe spaces" are more than just physical—they're co-created environments where respect and creativity inspire people to take risks, foster joy, and drive progress. From heartfelt moments at the Center’s gala to creating collaborative events that spark movements, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in building stronger communities. ?? Listen here: https://lnkd.in/gccDuPwB ?? Follow Kim Fountain?or learn more about her work at?thecentersd.org. This episode is brought to you by: ?? Swaim Strategies ?? The AV Department ?? Greater Giving #FundraisingElevator #Podcast #CommunityLeadership #NonprofitFundraising #InclusionMatters

?? HR 9495: A Threat to Social Justice Nonprofits—Take Action Now ?? Call your senator today! HR 9495 threatens to silence nonprofits serving marginalized communities by allowing politically motivated attacks on their work. The stakes couldn’t be higher—this bill now moves to the Senate. ?? Take Action Now: ? Call Your Senators to oppose HR 9495 and protect freedom of speech and advocacy. ? Spread the Word to ensure others understand the danger this bill poses to civil society. ?? Find your Senators' contact info here: https://lnkd.in/eaUVmta We can’t afford silence. Advocacy and justice are at risk. Take action today. On November 21, the House passed HR 9495, granting unprecedented power to the U.S. Treasury Secretary to revoke the tax-exempt status of nonprofits labeled as “terrorism-supporting” without due process. This legislation poses a grave risk to nonprofits advocating for civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and more. Read our post here and take action: https://lnkd.in/gnefP2m9 #NonprofitAdvocacy #HR9495 #SocialJustice #CivilRights #ProtectNonprofits #CallYourSenator

??? Elevate Conference 2024: Early Bird Registration Extended! Save 35% on your tickets to Elevate Conference 2024 until December 18th! This is the premier gathering for nonprofit changemakers and thought leaders, focused on transforming events and maximizing impact. ?? Scholarships Available! Thanks to NW Natural and OnPoint, scholarships are open for LGBTQ/BiPOC-led and serving organizations. Spots are limited, so act fast! ?? “The knowledge and connections I gained at Elevate have completely transformed how we approach our events.” Watch the full testimonial here: https://lnkd.in/gmB5Bv4Z Register Now: ?? In-Person Registration: https://lnkd.in/gcBDMjzJ ?? Virtual Registration: https://lnkd.in/gF4Hrugb #ElevateConference #FundraisingEvents #EarlyBirdDiscount

?? New Episode Alert! ?? ?? Episode #54: Making Bigger Asks with Rhea Wong How can nonprofit leaders break free from the cycle of donor acquisition and focus on building sustainable relationships? In this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, Rhea Wong shares her expertise on: ? Cultivating committed donors to avoid “acquisition addiction” ? Addressing systemic challenges like overburdened roles and unclear priorities ? Redefining leadership with trust, focus, and meaningful connections Rhea’s insights are a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their fundraising strategies and lead with purpose. Follow Rhea Wong and LinkedIn at @rheawong or visit her website at rheawong.com. ?? Be sure to catch the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gYXyaWyf Let us know your thoughts in the comments! What strategies have helped you strengthen donor relationships? #TheFundraisingElevator #NonprofitFundraising #LeadershipDevelopment #RheaWong #Podcast

This week at the?Nonprofit Storytelling Conference,?Kristin Steele?and?Samantha Swaim?gathered on the land of the Santa Ana Pueblo people in New Mexico with storytellers from around the world. It was a time of reflection, gratitude, and carving a path forward—caring for each other, connecting with community, and sharing the stories that matter. In three sessions, Kristin and Sam explored how to craft storytelling moments at fundraising events that align with your mission and inspire support. Dive deeper with?Episode #34: How to Tell Your Organizational Story?of?The Fundraising Elevator?podcast, where they share how to build connections and boost fundraising with impactful stories. ?? Watch now:?https://lnkd.in/gFWHHKAQ #FundraisingTips #NonprofitStorytelling #TheFundraisingElevator #Storytelling

?? Tomorrow is TASTE!?? We’re thrilled to join together for?TASTE for Equity?– a celebration of community, resilience, and shared purpose. This evening is all about coming together, embracing each other’s stories, and building a pathway forward. Let’s create a night filled with warmth, support, and meaningful connections as we continue the journey toward equity.??? #TASTEforEquity #Community #Support #TogetherForward #SwaimStrategies

??? Fresh Episode Alert! Episode #53: Event Sponsorship with Jo Davis ??? In our latest episode of The Fundraising Elevator, Jo Davis from OnPoint Community Credit Union joins Sam and Kristin to explore how sponsorships can be more than financial transactions. With insights on building lasting partnerships and adapting to shifts in corporate giving, Jo’s advice is invaluable for nonprofits seeking deeper connections with sponsors. Watch now to learn how to transform sponsorships into meaningful, long-term relationships! And be sure to subscribe to our channel on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gjw8tgKD #EventSponsorship #NonprofitFundraising #CorporateGiving #Podcast

? Introducing Episode #52: "Say the Magic Word with Frank Velásquez Jr." ? ?? Release Date: November 6, 2024 On this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, hosts Sam and Kristin welcome a powerhouse guest: Frank Velásquez Jr., the visionary Founder of 4 Da Hood and architect of the Ascending Leaders in Color program. Frank brings a wealth of knowledge in storytelling and social justice, sharing how language can either build bridges or create barriers for your organization. In this time we’re excited to learn how to build bridges. Discover: ?? The pitfalls of deficit-framed language and how it impacts organizational culture and funding. ?? How shifting to asset-based and transformative language can empower your mission and strengthen relationships with donors and sponsors. ?? Turning words into a movement, cultivating generational wealth, and amplifying community stories. ?? Don’t miss this insightful episode! Listen, learn, and elevate your approach to donor engagement and organizational storytelling. Watch and subscribe on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gjUk855P Follow Frank Velásquez Jr.: LinkedIn: / 4-da-hood-llc Instagram: / 4dahoodllc #TheFundraisingElevator #PodcastPremiere #SayTheMagicWord #StorytellingForImpact #NonprofitLanguage

Your Vote is Critical. Your Voice Matters. Find Your Polling Place: Ensure you know where to cast your ballot and the hours of operation. Bring a Friend: Encourage others to join you in voting and amplify our collective impact. Together, let’s shape a future FOR US ALL. #ElectionDay #GetOutAndVote #CommunityAction #Vote2024

?? Have you caught Episode #51: Event Menu Magic with Chef Kiara Hardy yet? ?? How can the right menu elevate your next event? In our latest episode of The Fundraising Elevator, we get inspired by Chef Kiara Hardy from Kitchen Killa Culinary Solutions, who unpacks the artistry of designing memorable event menus. From perfecting flavors to smart service styles, Chef Kiara explains how caterers are crucial partners in creating impactful, delicious experiences for your guests. Tune in for practical tips on menu collaboration and savor every detail of the conversation. Let’s elevate fundraising, one dish at a time! ? Catch the full episode on YouTube and share your thoughts in the comments! https://lnkd.in/g7R9trtK Don't forget to follow Chef Kiara at https://lnkd.in/gzRRcGe9 on Instagram. #TheFundraisingElevator #EventMenuMagic #FundraisingEvents #ChefKiaraHardy #Podcast