Soapbox Engage Blog

Issue 312

Happy Tuesday, fundraisers!

Summer has a reputation for being the "quiet season," but this week's roundup makes a strong case for using it wisely. Whether you're strengthening donor relationships, refining your messaging, or laying the groundwork for your next major campaign, now is a great time to invest in the work that pays off later!

Scroll down for some practical strategies for major gifts, donor stewardship, and writing donation appeals that inspire action. We're also sharing a step-by-step guide to launching a nonprofit advocacy campaign, insights into the psychology of newly wealthy donors, and ideas from fundraisers on what's actually working in 2026.

Here's to making the most of the season and setting yourself up for a strong finish to the year!

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Great Fundraising Posts

How to Run a Nonprofit Advocacy Campaign: Step-by-Step

Soapbox Engage (Soapbox Engage)

The mechanics of launching an advocacy campaign are actually the easy part. The real challenge is choosing the right issue, picking the right approach, and giving supporters a clear, meaningful way to take action. In this guide, we walk through a practical framework for planning advocacy campaigns that build momentum, measure real impact, and leave you with a stronger supporter community long after the campaign ends.

In Your Own Words: Fundraising Strategies that are Working in 2026

Kate Averett Anderson (sgENGAGE)

Every year brings a new list of fundraising trends, but this article asks a better question: what's actually working? Drawing on conversations with nonprofit professionals, it highlights the practical strategies organizations are seeing success with right now, from pairing direct mail with digital outreach to rethinking mid-level donor engagement. It's a refreshing look past the hype and into the day-to-day practices that are delivering real results.

4 Strategies for Valuable, Long-Lasting Donor Relationships

Julia Claire Campbell (Julia Campbell)

Strong donor relationships aren't built through a single thank-you email or annual appeal. They're built through consistent, meaningful interactions over time. This article shares four practical strategies for deepening those connections, with a focus on making donors feel seen, appreciated, and part of your mission. It's a good reminder that long-term fundraising success starts with relationships, not transactions.

Make Them Look, Then Make Them Leave

Kevin Schulman (The Agitator)

Your fundraising photo has one job: make someone stop scrolling or pause long enough to care. This article argues that once the image has done its job, it should get out of the way and let the donor focus on the ask. It's a smart reminder that great visuals don't compete with your message. They pull people in, then hand the conversation off.

Make the Quiet Season Count With a Summer Major-Gifts Strategy

Jonah Halper (NonProfit PRO)

Summer can feel like a lull, but for major gift fundraisers, it's one of the best times to build relationships. This article makes the case for using the quieter months to reconnect with donors, schedule meaningful conversations, and lay the groundwork for the asks that will come later in the year. The biggest gifts rarely happen because of a great meeting in December. They happen because of the conversations that started months earlier.

Understanding the Psychology of Newly Wealthy Donors

Alex Johnston (NonProfit PRO)

A sudden increase in wealth can change more than someone's bank account. It can change how they think about generosity, legacy, and the impact they want to have. This article explores why newly wealthy donors often have different motivations and questions than long-time philanthropists, making it a good reminder that major gift fundraising starts with understanding the person, not just their capacity.

Feelings, Not Fact

Steven Screen (The Better Fundraising Company)

People rarely give because they've been convinced by a spreadsheet. They give because something made them feel like they could make a difference. This article is a good reminder that facts build credibility, but feelings inspire action. The strongest fundraising appeals don't choose one or the other. They use facts to support an emotional story that moves donors to say "yes."

The Valiant Volunteer: Event Archetype Series

Tamara Varner (Greater Giving)

Every successful fundraising event has a few people quietly making everything run smoothly, and chances are they're volunteers. This article is a nice reminder that volunteers aren't just extra hands on event day. They're ambassadors, problem-solvers, and often the reason guests have such a positive experience. Investing in your volunteer team pays dividends long after the last guest heads home.

5 Ways To Boost Your Wording When Asking For Donations

Soapbox Engage (Soapbox Engage)

ometimes the biggest lift in fundraising comes from changing just a few words. In this updated guide, we share five simple, research-backed ways to strengthen your donation asks, from focusing on the donor to connecting every gift with a tangible outcome. If you're looking for a quick win before your next campaign, these are easy changes that can make every appeal work a little harder.