Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast

In this week's episode of Nonprofit Newsfeed by Whole Whale, George and Nick dive into an engaging discussion packed with insights for nonprofit enthusiasts. 

AI in Fundraising: The conversation shifts to an intriguing experiment reported by TechCrunch, where Sage Future, backed by Open Philanthropy, tasked AI models with fundraising for charity. These AI agents, with human oversight, raised $270 for Helen Keller International by engaging in tasks like setting up social media accounts and creating promotional content. While AI's role in automating communication is acknowledged, the hosts caution against over-reliance due to potential brand risks, especially for sensitive issues.

Environmental Advocacy: The episode touches on the historical narrative of leaded gasoline and its eventual phase-out in 2021, highlighting the critical role of governmental oversight in protecting public health. The hosts use this story to emphasize the importance of maintaining robust environmental regulations.

USDA Grant Freeze Impact: A pressing issue discussed is the USDA's grant freeze, which has left nonprofits like Pasa Sustainable Agriculture in financial turmoil. With $3 million in unpaid reimbursements, the organization had to furlough most of its staff, underscoring the dire consequences of such funding disruptions on local communities and farms.

Community-Driven Violence Prevention: The Circle of Brotherhood's innovative efforts in Miami's Liberty City are celebrated for their community-based approach to violence prevention. By providing unarmed, de-escalative security services, the organization works alongside local youth centers to foster a safer environment, demonstrating the power of community engagement over traditional security methods.

In this episode, George interviews Allison Fine, President of Every.org, about their innovative donation platform for nonprofits. Fine discusses Every.org's unique value proposition, including no transaction or setup fees, acceptance of various payment methods including cryptocurrency, and a focus on meaningful donor engagement. The conversation also covers the challenges of maintaining a zero-fee model, Every.org's growth spurred by partnerships with notable philanthropists, and their use of AI to enhance storytelling and donor relations. The episode highlights Every.org's significant impact, having raised over $110 million for over 7,000 organizations, and their recent success with fiscal sponsorships. Fine offers valuable insights into relational fundraising and the benefits of using Every.org’s platform to simplify and maximize fundraising efforts. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:49 Elevator Pitch for Every.org 01:39 Challenges and Solutions in Nonprofit Fundraising 03:17 Focus on Nonprofit Experience and Technology 05:58 Data Integration and CRM Challenges 09:37 The Importance of Relational Fundraising 17:14 Future Plans and Exciting Developments 19:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Navigating Nonprofit Challenges: Political Pressures, Greenwashing, and AI Innovations

In the latest episode of Nonprofit Newsfeed by Whole Whale, hosts George and Nick delve into pressing issues affecting the nonprofit sector, from political pressures to environmental challenges and technological advancements.

Key Topics and Insights:

1. Political Attacks on Nonprofits:

   • The episode highlights the increasing political pressures faced by nonprofits, particularly those involved in contentious issues like immigration. A recent New York Times story is cited, where Judge James Boasberg's daughter, involved with a nonprofit, faced online harassment due to her work. The hosts emphasize how nonprofits are becoming targets in broader political battles, drawing parallels to the Red Scare era's tactics of guilt by association.

2. The Reality of Plastic Recycling:

   • George Weiner discusses the misleading narrative around plastic recycling in the U.S., pointing out that less than 9% of plastic is actually recycled. He traces the history back to industry-funded campaigns that shifted responsibility onto consumers, labeling it as "greenwashing." This segment calls for nonprofits to focus on root causes rather than downstream solutions.

3. AI in Nonprofit Management:

   • The episode explores how AI is being integrated into nonprofit operations, particularly with Ministry Brands' adoption of AI for automating tasks in faith-based organizations. The discussion highlights the potential of AI to enhance efficiency while also considering the challenges it poses to traditional practices.

4. Feel-Good Story:

   • On a lighter note, the hosts share a story about a New Jersey nonprofit that created a miniature indoor town for children with disabilities. This initiative aims to teach kids about daily life in an accessible and engaging way.

In this episode of the Nonprofit News Feed by Whole Whale, hosts George and Nick delve into the financial turmoil facing Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit behind the beloved children's program, Sesame Street. The organization is grappling with the expiration of its HBO contract, which previously served as a significant revenue stream. This development coincides with broader challenges, including potential funding cuts to PBS and NPR and the impact of reduced U.S. foreign assistance on Sesame Workshop's humanitarian programs.

Main News Stories Greenpeace Lawsuit

• Energy Transfer (owners of Dakota Access Pipeline) is suing Greenpeace for $300 million in damages
• The lawsuit claims Greenpeace orchestrated protests near Standing Rock, which Greenpeace denies
• Potential damages could reach $800 million with punitive damages, potentially bankrupting Greenpeace USA
• Greenpeace maintains they only supported an indigenous-led movement (involving over 300 tribal nations)
• The hosts discuss concerns about this establishing a dangerous precedent for protest liability and potentially chilling environmental activism
• The case is being heard in a conservative jurisdiction less favorable to activists

Nonprofit Consultant Survey Results

• Fourth annual survey by Nonprofit.ist and Nonprofit Times provides industry benchmarks
• Average consultant rate: $151.19/hour (median: $126)
• Highest rates: consultants specializing in AI technology, fundraising, and coaching
• Higher education correlated with higher rates
• Urban consultants earn significantly more than rural ones
• New consultants with significant nonprofit experience tend to charge less despite deep knowledge

USDA Cancels Local Food Programs

• USDA cut two major local food programs worth over $1 billion in funding:
  • $660 million for Local Food for Schools initiative
  • $420 million for Local Food Purchase Assistant program
• Cuts affect schools and food banks
• Impacts include increased food costs amid inflation and undermining community food systems