The Fundraising Academy Workshop Series: Reducing Barriers to Fundraising
Sponsored by
The Fundraising Academy Workshop Series: Reducing Barriers to Fundraising: Moving from Fear to Confidence
Many nonprofit leaders, Board members, and volunteers feel uncomfortable when it comes to fundraising. Often, those feelings are rooted in personal beliefs about money, misconceptions about donors, or a misunderstanding of what fundraising really is.
In this interactive workshop, nonprofit consultant and speaker Connie Golds helps participants explore the attitudes and assumptions that create barriers to fundraising success. Through discussion, self-reflection, engaging quizzes, and practical exercises, participants will gain a new perspective on philanthropy, donor relationships, and their own role in fundraising.
Participants will leave with greater confidence, a deeper understanding of donor behavior, and practical strategies for building meaningful relationships that support their organization's mission.
Learning Objectives / Key Takeaways:
- Identify personal beliefs and experiences that may influence their comfort with fundraising
- Understand common misconceptions about philanthropy and charitable giving
- Learn why fundraising is fundamentally about relationships, not transactions
- Discover which fundraising strategies produce the strongest return on investment
- Understand the Cycle of Fundraising and where organizations should focus their efforts
- Gain practical ideas for cultivating, stewarding, and engaging donors
Speaker: Connie Golds, Connie Golds Consulting
Connie Golds
Connie Golds Consulting
Connie Golds has dedicated her life to uplifting and empowering the Coachella Valley community, guided by her belief in making the world “a little better than she found it.”
As the founder of Desert Best Friend’s Closet (DBFC), Connie led the only nonprofit in the region that provides free interview training and professional wardrobe services to help community members secure employment. During her 14-year tenure as CEO, DBFC transformed the lives of more than 8,000 individuals, equipping them with the confidence, skills and attire to succeed in their careers and beyond.
Connie’s expertise and passion for community service make her a sought-after voice on nonprofit governance. She has served in leadership roles for numerous organizations, including the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council, where she continues her lifelong commitment to scouting after 13 years as a Girl Scout leader. She also now provides nonprofits and their leaders with coaching services through her consultancy, Connie Golds Consulting. She is the author of the weekly blog, “Hey Nonprofit Leader” available for free on Substack.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Connie is a Black Belt in Shito-Ryu Karate-Do and a dedicated instructor, teaching Karate and Kobudo to both neurodivergent and neurotypical students. Her journey in martial arts, which began over a decade ago, has given her new avenues to mentor and inspire others.
A resident of the Coachella Valley for more than 40 years, she is a proud mother to three adult children and a doting “Nana” to her two granddaughters.
The Fundraising Academy Workshop Seri...
Date and Time
Thursday Jul 23, 2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM PDT
Workshop: 9:00 am until 12:00 pm
Location
Fees/Admission
AcademyGO Members: $60.00
Not Yet A Member $75.00
Website
Contact Information
Kimberly Hallmark
(760) 559-8998
Send Email