—
Yesterday marked the release of What the Fundraising: Embracing and Enabling the People Behind the Purpose by Mallory Erickson, unveiling the hidden connection between fundraiser stress and the nonprofit sector's twin crises of declining donations and staff turnover.
In a landscape where nonprofit giving has hit a 40-year low and over half of fundraisers expect to leave their jobs within two years, Erickson's work comes at a critical juncture. What the Fundraising delves deep into the root causes of fundraiser stress and burnout, offering a fresh perspective that bridges neuroscience, psychology, executive coaching, and fundraising strategy.
Erickson's groundbreaking work exposes how chronic stress physically inhibits fundraisers' ability to build authentic donor relationships, directly impacting fundraising success. The book argues that addressing fundraiser well-being is key to solving both the giving crisis and the staffing exodus.
"Fundraiser behavior is the leading indicator of fundraising success," Erickson explains. "When we're stuck in fight-flight-freeze responses, we can't connect authentically with donors or take effective action. This perpetuates a cycle of transactional fundraising that feels awful and doesn't work."
Drawing on extensive research, Erickson introduces the concept of "Alignment Fundraising”. This innovative methodology moves beyond transactional strategies, focusing instead on building authentic partnerships rooted in shared values and goals. The book offers practical frameworks and tools to support fundraisers in becoming more enabled, embodied, and fulfilled in their roles.
Erickson, an executive coach and host of the popular "What the Fundraising" podcast, has trained over 60,000 fundraisers using elements of her unique expertise in fundraising strategy, executive coaching, and behavioral science, all of which inform the book's holistic framework.
Industry leaders praise the book's innovative approach:
- Kishshana Palmer, Author of the upcoming Busy Is a Four Letter Word, shares: "As a Black woman with 25+ years experience as a development professional and trusted philanthropic advisor, I can confidently say I wish I had this book when I was at my lowest. Erickson's insights are a lifeline."
- Whitney Clapper, Community Relations & Impact at Patagonia, states: "Don't let the word 'fundraising' mislead you. This book is for anyone who creates, holds, and manages relationships – meaning everyone. For impact leaders and change-makers looking to navigate the world in a new way, this book is a guide to follow."
- Ruthie Lindsey, Author of Here I Am, adds: "Mallory breaks down what can be seen as an incredibly scary and overwhelming process of fundraising into very practical and embodied steps that help your body and nervous system feel safe to raise money in an aligned and authentic way. What a gift this book is for fundraisers."
"This book is not just about raising more money," says Erickson. "It's about fundamentally changing how we approach the experience of fundraising to create a more sustainable, equitable, and impactful nonprofit sector. By prioritizing the well-being of fundraisers, we can unlock unprecedented potential for social change."
The book is available now through major retailers and independent bookstores. You can get more information at malloryerickson.com/book.
For more information or to request an interview, contact: mallory@malloryerickson.com
About Mallory Erickson: Mallory Erickson is an executive coach, fundraising consultant, and host of the "What the Fundraising" podcast. Her work focuses on transforming how nonprofit leaders approach fundraising through innovative, science-backed methodologies. Based in Berkeley, California, Erickson is dedicated to creating a more sustainable and impactful nonprofit sector. She holds a master's degree in education and is a certified iPEC Executive Coach.
Contact Info:
Name: Mallory Erickson
Email: Send Email
Organization: Author
Website: https://malloryerickson.com/book/
Release ID: 89142625
Google
RSS