Fundraising is rarely a solo endeavor

Sharon and I recently wrapped up a four-part fundraising workshop series in partnership with NonProfits First in West Palm Beach.

Over the course of eight weeks, we shared stories from our professional experiences—highlighting successes (and the lessons behind them) across four key areas of fundraising: corporate partnerships, individual giving, foundation grants, and events and sponsorships. Each session was lively, practical, and, we hope, empowering.

Attendees left with actionable ideas and renewed energy to take on their fundraising challenges.

But after each session, I found myself reflecting on my own journey. I thought about the times when my own fundraising efforts didn’t measure up to the examples I had just shared—opportunities I missed, relationships I let go quiet, or best practices I didn’t follow when I should have. These reflections weren’t discouraging; they were reminders that even seasoned fundraisers have room to grow—and that growth is easier when you’re not doing it alone.

Which brings me to an important truth: fundraising is rarely a solo endeavor. It works best when you have a partner—or a team—to help you brainstorm, troubleshoot, and push ideas forward. Watching Sharon and me present together, you’ll quickly see our different styles at play. We approach challenges differently, ask different questions, and draw on different experiences.

That diversity of thinking is core to our consultancy’s success—and it was the same dynamic that made our collaboration so strong when we worked together at the American Red Cross.

Whether you’re part of a small nonprofit team or a larger organization, success in fundraising is more likely—and far more sustainable—when you have a partner by your side.

The Benefits of Fundraising Partnerships (Internal or External):

• Fresh Perspective: A partner can help you see gaps or opportunities you may have missed.

• Accountability: Having someone to bounce ideas off of helps keep plans moving forward.

• Creative Brainstorming: Different minds generate more innovative solutions and approaches.

Emotional Support: Fundraising can be tough—partners help you stay encouraged and focused.

• Specialized Expertise: Consultants or skilled volunteers may bring knowledge your team doesn’t have.

• Efficiency: Delegating or sharing tasks can make your work more manageable and sustainable.

• Credibility: A team approach can build confidence with donors and stakeholders.

• Scalability: Partnerships help you build systems that can grow with your organization.

The Power of Passionate Volunteers

While professional expertise is essential, never underestimate the value of passionate volunteers. These individuals—board members, committee participants, longtime supporters—often bring unmatched enthusiasm and authenticity to your fundraising efforts. They can be your best storytellers (and if they aren’t we can train them!), powerful advocates, and trusted messengers.

When aligned and well-supported, volunteers can:

• Open doors to new donor networks

• Help make the case for giving more personal and relatable

• Add credibility through their lived connection to your mission

• Extend your team’s reach at events, in meetings, and across your community

Engaging volunteers effectively means treating them as true partners—offering them the tools, training, and trust they need to succeed.

Let’s Build Something Together

If you’re ready to strengthen your fundraising efforts—whether by investing in your internal team, activating your volunteers, or bringing in outside support—we’d love to help. At Team Kat & Mouse, we believe in collaborative, mission-driven strategy that meets you where you are.

Reach out today to start a conversation. Let’s talk about your goals, your challenges, and how we can partner to move your mission forward.