Last week, I read a blog by Alex Bean of Factory for Good titled Most Nonprofits Start With a Cause. This One Starts With the Research.

He shared the story of AIM, an organization that researches which problems are widespread, urgent, and realistically solvable before deciding what kind of nonprofit should be created. They do not begin with a cause and then search for a solution. They begin with evidence, identify where meaningful change is possible, and then find the right people to build it.

Alex ended his blog with a line I could not stop thinking about:

“Money isn’t the solution to making the world a better place. Innovation is.”

That sentence hit differently for me because I am the person who goes out and asks people for money.

I sit across from donors. I build relationships, listen to what matters to them, explain the mission, and ask them to invest in work we believe can make a difference. I know money matters.

Building Authentic Donor Relationships: A Guide for Nonprofits

Dear readers,

When it comes to fundraising, one of the most important skills you can develop is the ability to connect with donors—especially those who have the capacity to make a transformative impact. But for many nonprofits, particularly those just starting out, approaching high-net-worth individuals can feel intimidating.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that the key isn’t about crafting the perfect pitch; it’s about building authentic relationships. One of the best pieces of advice I can share is to make a genuine

Greetings, fellow dreamers and marketers!

Pull up a chair and join me for a journey into the heart of marketing magic: storytelling. Today, I want to share with you not just the theory behind storytelling in marketing, but also the real-life moments that have shaped my belief in its power to transform brands and captivate audiences.

Picture this: it’s a chilly autumn evening, and I’m huddled around a campfire with friends, each of us taking turns sharing our favorite childhood memories. As the flames dance and the stories unfold, I’m struck by the power of

Welcome back to "Just Catrina," where we explore the world of nonprofit success and innovation. Today, we're diving into a topic that's essential for every nonprofit organization—finding fresh and creative ways to raise funds that go beyond the conventional. But before we get into it, I want to share a little insight into why I haven't been writing much about nonprofits lately. You see, my blog is a reflection of my mood or what I feel in the moment. Recently, a development professional reached out to me and asked me to write about this topic, and it got me thinking. So, here goes.

The Challenge of Fundraising

Fundraising is the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations. It allows them to pursue their missions, make a positive impact, and create change in their communities. While traditional