In 2024, something remarkable happened. More than half of nonprofits in the M&R Benchmarks study took intentional steps to understand their audiences. According to the 2025 report (linked) 52% of participating organizations conducted some form of donor research, from surveys to interviews, to learn what really motivates their supporters. It’s hard to believe it took…
If you’re a nonprofit leader debating whether to invest in branding, chances are you’ve felt the invisible hand of the Overhead Myth pressing down on your decision-making. The tension between financial prudence and strategic investment is especially intense when it comes to nonprofit branding and the overhead myth. You’re not alone. This myth is one…
It’s been a tumultuous 2025 and we’re less than four months in! Nonprofits are feeling the pain and uncertainty around funding sources, policy changes, and economic pressures. Now more than ever (we’ll be able to stop saying that someday right?), nonprofit organizations need passionate supporters. Not just for financial support, but also for awareness and…
Many nonprofit leaders underestimate the power of branding, assuming it’s just about logos, ads, and taglines. But nonprofit brand strategy is so much more than that. Branding is the process of creating a strong, memorable presence that builds trust, deepens engagement, and drives long-term sustainability. Your brand is your reputation, that feeling people get in…
Happy Valentine’s Day and Random of Acts of Kindness Week! I hope you have a wonderful day full of love and kindness. I don’t know about you but I need it. Today I want to talk about love. Valentine’s Day is a great time to reflect on the relationships that make your nonprofit’s work possible—your…
In a landmark decision, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has recently rebranded to Scouting America, effective tomorrow, February 8, 2025. This change, coinciding with the organization’s 115th anniversary, is more than just a name update—it is a strategic move to protect and maintain the long-term impact of the organization. This is the power of…
Branding vs. marketing for nonprofits. It’s a common misconception for many leaders. “Branding” and “marketing” are often used interchangeably. They are not, however, the same thing. For nonprofits, understanding the distinction and connection between these two forces is essential for creating an impactful organization. Branding builds trust and identity, while marketing drives engagement and action.…
As I reflect on this year and plan for what’s next, I decided to revisit the articles I wrote in my Content Marketing Musings newsletter on LinkedIn. Over the past twelve months, I’ve consistently shared insights, strategies, and stories designed to help mission-driven organizations—nonprofits, healthcare providers, B2B service companies, and faith-based organizations—clarify their brand messages,…
I was honored to be asked to contribute to this BrandAwareness.io article along with other marketing experts. Here’s what I said. Nonprofit Campaign Engages Younger Generations Nonprofits earn better results when they tailor their fundraising and marketing strategies to specific audiences. By understanding the people they want to reach-their interests, concerns, and motivations-they can create…
It happened almost every year. My team at LSS was so careful with our budget during the year that we ended up having an unexpected surplus in Q4. And, every year, we were perplexed about what to do about it. If we didn’t use it, the powers-that-be would be liable to allocate less of our…