Episode Details

Send us Fan Mail

What if recurring donors aren't the result of better fundraising...but stronger relationships?

Many nonprofit leaders focus on acquiring the next donor. 

But the organizations with the strongest recurring giving programs think differently. They focus on earning trust, deepening connection, and helping supporters feel like they're part of something meaningful.

In this episode of Nonprofit CEO SPARK, Marcia sits down with Abby Jarvis, researcher, writer, and speaker at Neon One, to unpack the latest findings from The Recurring Donor Report. 

Together, they explore what recurring donors can teach nonprofit leaders about retention, trust, and sustainable growth—and why these lessons apply not only to fundraising, but also to leading staff, volunteers, and boards.

If you're looking to build an organization donors want to stay connected to, this conversation is full of practical insights backed by data.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• The research behind why recurring donors stay engaged for years, and what that teaches us about trust, connection, and loyalty.
• The surprising reason nearly 50% of recurring donors gave without ever being asked.
• Why your own data is often more valuable than industry benchmarks.
• How shifting from transactional fundraising to relationship-centered leadership strengthens long-term engagement.
• What nonprofit CEOs can learn about retention, whether they're thinking about donors, volunteers, staff, or board members.

Quick Note:

While Neon One is an affiliate partner, this is not a sponsored interview. I invited Abby, because I believe this conversation offers valuable fundraising insights for nonprofit organizations. If you choose to use my affiliate link, you will receive a discount, and I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Resources Mentioned:

📘 Neon One's 2026 Recurring Donor Report: Key Findings

Connect with Abby Jarvis

Book a demo at Neon One.

🔗 CONNECT WITH MARCIA

Connect with Marcia on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/marciabeckner 

Visit the Culture CARES Website → culturecares.com 

Explore the Podcast → culturecares.com/podcast

👉 Are you catapulting towards burnout? Schedule a private session: https://culturecares.com/burnout-to-boundaries/

🎙️ ENJOY THE SHOW?

If this episode resonated, here’s how you can support:

1. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
2. Leave a review (it helps more nonprofit leaders find the show)

Don’t forget to share this episode with a CEO or Executive Director who needs to hear it!

Support the show