A strong nonprofit donor stewardship strategy is key to long-term success. In this webinar, Lindsay explores why stewardship is more than just a phase in the donor cycle—it’s the strategy itself. Learn how thoughtful, authentic engagement builds trust, increases retention, and fuels greater impact.
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Creating a Culture of Philanthropy with Relationships at the Center and Fundraising as the Byproduct
“Giving is human nature. When you lead stewardship efforts from the heart — starting with gratitude and abundance — donors feel fulfilled, liberated and inspired by their contribution to a shared mission.” — Lindsay Simonds Share on X
📥 Download the presentation slide deck here.
Fundraising Starts with Connection
What’s at the heart of fundraising? Why are donors genuinely happy to contribute to a cause?
Giving is human nature. When you invite a donor to invest in change—by supporting an organization with a shared vision—you offer the gift of mission fulfillment.
In other words, if philanthropy is the love of humankind, then fundraisers are conduits of love in action. After the gift is received, stewardship becomes the response that sustains the relationship.
Stewardship Is the Secret to Donor Retention
Stewardship is the critical element in recognizing mission fulfillment. It’s what ultimately merits continued giving over time.
In this episode, Lindsay shares her insights on how stewardship is inseparable from a strong culture of philanthropy.
She also offers stats, tactics, strategies, and resources—both timeless and innovative—that remain effective even in an era of social distancing.
Why Stewardship Drives Long-Term Giving
Understanding the value of stewardship in the donor lifecycle is key. It helps explain how major gifts happen and how long-term donors stay loyal.
At its core, stewardship is about relationship management. It’s about nurturing human connections, recognizing interdependence, and fulfilling a mission together.
Raising money is simply the byproduct of that deep and genuine engagement.
Practical Tools for Real Impact
This episode is packed with insightful data, actionable steps, inspiring techniques, and rich examples for fundraisers of all levels.
You’ll learn how to engage donors meaningfully, how to elevate conversations with high-value questions, and how to give back to your supporters in return.
As you finish listening, Lindsay’s guidance will leave you feeling both confident and inspired—ready to embrace stewardship as your strategy, not just a step in the process.
Key Takeaways:
(04:55) – The heart of fundraising and Lindsay’s key takeaways for philanthropic leaders.
(08:11) – The donor lifecycle fundamentals: identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship.
(09:47) – The classic forms of stewardship that demonstrate giving merit.
(12:08) – Review of donor acquisition, donor retention, and the value of stewardship.
(15:14) – How transactional thinking sabotages partnership and impact.
(18:35) – Personalization, not perfection: Lindsay’s tips and techniques for stewardship in times of crisis.
(23:11) – Crisis communication: how to convey care for this relationship as a fundraiser using stewardship in the midst of chaos and uncertainty.
(30:10) – Examples of organizations that have pulled off high impact stewardship strategies resulting in unexpected donations.
(37:16) – How nonprofits can find opportunities to help their beneficiaries during COVID-19.
(39:49) – Lindsay’s speaking points and a guide to how to properly approach donors during these uncertain times.
Episode Resources
The Scandinavian School & Cultural Center
The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist
Philanthropy During a Time of Crisis with Rick Happy
Major Gifts Fundraising with Sterrin Bird
The Ritz-Carlton Gold Standards
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