From Learning to Action: Reflections from the FDF Knowledge Sharing Sessions

Editor's Note: Fueling Dynamic Fundraising is an opportunity for nonprofits to learn and implement research-backed fundraising principles and techniques presented in partnership with The Fund Raising School at the Indiana University Indianapolis Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the preeminent professional fundraising training and educational program helping individuals and organizations become well-versed, dynamic fundraisers. Open to nonprofits with an active, up-to-date profile on The Giving Partner, Fueling Dynamic Fundraising takes place through a year-long engagement that includes in-person training along with virtual learning sessions and consulting support. Interested in learning more? Consider listenng to the Nonprofit Thrivability podcast here. 

As part of our commitment to fostering participation and connection, The Patterson Foundation recently hosted three Knowledge Sharing Sessions (KSS) as a follow-up to the in-person Fueling Dynamic Fundraising (FDF) courses. Hosted in Punta Gorda, Sarasota, and online, these sessions were designed to create space for nonprofit professionals to reflect on their learning, exchange ideas, and explore what comes next as they put their new skills into practice.

Each session brought together participating organizations, with discussions facilitated by the Fueling Dynamic Fundraising team — a group with more than 100 years of combined fundraising experience. Their guidance helped participants think more deeply about what they learned and how they could translate those lessons into tangible results for their organizations.

One of the most valuable aspects of the KSS was the chance for participants to step back and reflect on the strategies and tools they had already implemented. Many shared that the course inspired them to focus more intentionally on stewardship, recognizing the long-term value of building strong relationships with donors. Others found clarity around what qualifies as a major gift for their agency and developed more targeted strategies for year-end appeals. Participants reported revisiting their organizations’ mission and values statements, seeking new donor database solutions, and establishing clearer pathways for engaging board members and donors. Several highlighted the importance of developing a fundraising plan to provide structure and direction — a step that is helping them move forward with greater confidence.

At the same time, participants acknowledged the real-world challenges that can slow implementation. Time, budget constraints, and limited staff capacity continue to be common barriers. Staff and volunteer turnover add to the difficulty of sustaining momentum. Many noted the need to engage board members more actively, encouraging them to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance and possibility. Reengaging lapsed donors, refining communication strategies, and finding the right voice and vehicles for outreach were also cited as ongoing areas of focus.

Despite these challenges, the ripple effects of the FDF courses have been both encouraging and energizing. Organizations reported feeling more united around common goals, bringing staff and volunteers together for forward movement. Some have developed training manuals to support new team members, while others have taken steps toward rebranding or blending fundraising with marketing communications to strengthen their message. Participants described feeling better prepared and motivated, using the course toolkit, networking with peers, and applying budgeting exercises to inform decision-making.

Above all, the Knowledge Sharing Sessions provided a sense of inspiration and renewed energy. Participants left feeling both grounded and motivated — ready to continue applying their learnings, building a culture of philanthropy within their organizations, and moving their missions forward with clarity and confidence.