650. Human-Centered Major Gifts: How to Build Your Pipeline - Tammy Zonker Artwork

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We Are For Good Podcast - The Podcast for Nonprofits

650. Human-Centered Major Gifts: How to Build Your Pipeline - Tammy Zonker

October 01, 2025 • We Are For Good

Meet Tammy 🤝, the President + Founder of Fundraising Transformed and the Author of ‘Calling All Heroes’.

With over 30 years of experience in fundraising, Tammy Zonker shares personal insights that have shaped her human-centered approach. She emphasizes empathy and trust as the foundation for genuine donor relationships, creating real, lasting connections. Tammy offers practical strategies to inspire donors to become lifelong advocates and build authentic, impactful partnerships that truly resonate.

This episode is for anyone who believes in the power of thoughtful, compassionate giving to change lives ✨

Episode Highlights:

Tammy Zonker's Journey and Empathy in Fundraising (02:20)
Reclaiming the Concept of Heroes in Fundraising (05:19)
The Five Pillars of Human-Centered Fundraising (08:12)
Building Trust and Authentic Partnerships (11:18)
Navigating Power Dynamics in Fundraising (14:19)
Transparency and True Partnership with Donors (17:18)
The Courage to Release Donors (19:42)
Understanding Mid-Level Donors (22:03)
Listening as a Strategy for Small Shops (27:21)
The Power of Open-Ended Questions (31:34)
A Story of Generosity and Community (35:07)
Tammy’s One Good Thing (40:00)

Episode Shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/650

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