Why Your Fundraising Strategy Isn’t Working (and How to Fix It)

Most nonprofit leaders know the feeling, you’re working hard to raise money, but it never feels like enough. You host events, write grants, send campaigns, and still wonder why it’s not working.

The truth? It’s not the effort. It’s the approach.

In this episode of A Modern Nonprofit Podcast, Tosha Anderson, Founder of The Charity CFO, sits down with Jeff Schreifels, Principal and Owner of Veritus Group, to talk about why most fundraising strategies fail, and what nonprofits can do to fix them.

Fundraising Isn’t About the Money

If your fundraising starts with the ask, you’ve already skipped the most important step.

“Fundraising isn’t about the money,” Jeff says. “It’s about connecting a donor’s passion to your mission. When that alignment happens, the money follows.”

Nonprofits that see donors as partners rather than paychecks create deeper relationships and higher lifetime value. The shift is subtle but powerful: move from chasing donations to cultivating commitment.

The Real Cost of Burnout

Many major gift officers last less than 18 months in their roles. Unrealistic goals, constant pressure, and unclear strategies are driving away the very people who sustain your fundraising engine.

Without consistent relationships, donors feel like numbers. Staff turnover means lost trust, missed opportunities, and a cycle of starting over.

The fix? Align goals with reality. Measure relationships, not just revenue.

Building a Culture of Philanthropy

Jeff challenges leaders to ask a simple question: Do you believe your staff and donors are part of your mission?

When you treat both as mission-critical partners, everything changes – training, accountability, gratitude, and long-term growth.

Donor relationships thrive when leadership invests in the people behind the fundraising.

Start Here: A Simple Step to Shift Your Fundraising

If you’re not sure where to begin, Jeff offers one practical step:

“Call your top 20 donors and thank them. Personally. No ask, just gratitude.”

That small action can start the cultural shift from transactional to relational fundraising.

Align Fundraising With Financial Clarity

Strong fundraising strategies rely on financial clarity. Before you set goals or restructure teams, ensure your budget reflects reality, and your fundraising plan aligns with your mission and numbers.

Download The Charity CFO Financial Blueprint to learn how to build systems that support sustainable growth and smarter fundraising decisions.