It has been a year of starts and stops, peaks and valleys for the nonprofit industry. The year following any presidential election presents challenges for philanthropy. Changes and uncertainty do impact giving; when new administrations put new programs in place, it can take time for donors to assess and adjust accordingly.
In Part 2 of our conversation with Donna Lucas, Chief Marketing Officer at Joni and Friends, we explore what it takes to lead effective fundraising in today’s fast-moving, often unpredictable nonprofit landscape. From segmenting donor audiences with the help of AI to preparing leadership and fundraisers for economic plateaus, Donna shares actionable insights shaped by decades of experience in both the corporate and ministry worlds.
What does it take to lead fundraising and marketing at one of the most trusted ministries in the world? Donna Lucas, Chief Marketing Officer of Joni and Friends, joins the Fit Fundraising Podcast to share how her team inspires generosity through consistency, transparency, and a mission-centered message. From adapting to economic uncertainty to creating omnichannel campaigns that meet donors where they are, Donna offers practical, powerful insight for nonprofit leaders who want to build lasting trust—and lasting impact.
If you’ve been in nonprofit leadership long enough, you know one thing for certain:
funding is never guaranteed. Contracts get slashed, priorities shift, and new
administrations bring new rules. The worst thing you can do? Panic. The best thing you
can do? Strategize.
Make no mistake about it—giving in the summertime always declines for nonprofits and ministries. The key question every nonprofit must answer is: When does the dip begin and when does giving begin to rebound? The answer differs for every organization.
Director of Client Services and Staff SupportMelinda Jones As the Director of Client Services and Staff Support at Fit Fundraising, Melinda Jones oversees all aspects of client service operations, ensuring exceptional experiences at every touchpoint. She manages and...
Fundraising AdvisorJay Koopman Jay Koopman serves as an associate and account director for Fit Fundraising. Mr. Koopman brings over two decades of expertise in fundraising, with a passion rooted in mission-driven ministry. His journey began with Teen Challenge and...
Direct Response Fundraising SpecialistJanet CoplandJanet Copland is a seasoned Direct Response Fundraising Specialist with over 35 years of experience helping nonprofits maximize their donor engagement and fundraising impact. Currently, she serves as a key advisor at...
Marketing ManagerStephen McKellarStephen McKellar is a marketing manager at Fit Fundraising, where he specializes in developing strategic campaigns that drive engagement and growth. With a strong background in digital marketing, fundraising, and community outreach,...
Administrative DirectorKari KeeKari Kee brings 20 years of non-profit experience and leadership to FIT Fundraising as our Administrative Director. As a pastor’s wife, Kari has an acute understanding of the complexities and joys of volunteer-driven ministries and...
