Don't Spare the Change (Management)

In this episode of The First Day from The Fund Raising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., welcomes fundraising trailblazer Ann Updegraff Spleth to discuss one of the most inevitable, and nerve-wracking, aspects of nonprofit life: change. With decades of experience and a suitcase full of real-world examples, Ann explores how effective change management can strengthen an organization’s stability and, in turn, its fundraising capacity. Whether it’s adapting to new technologies, shifting donor demographics, or restructuring outdated policies, one thing’s clear: resisting change is like trying to run a capital campaign using a fax machine. It’s not gonna end well. Ann dives into the reasons why people, and organizations, often resist change. Spoiler alert: it’s not just stubbornness. Comfort, fear of inadequacy, mistrust of leadership, and a good ol’ fashioned case of organizational inertia can all gum up the works. But when nonprofits ignore these dynamics, they risk stalling progress and alienating staff and donors alike. Drawing from her experience at Kiwanis International, Ann recounts a pivotal moment where reevaluating donor recognition practices led to breakthroughs in fairness, inclusion, and, yes, big gifts. Because if your system only credits the husband, your fundraising strategy might be stuck in 1954. To guide nonprofits through the stormy seas of transition, Ann introduces a tried-and-true model from sociologist Kurt Lewin: unfreeze, change, refreeze. First, identify what’s holding you back and prepare your team for what’s coming. Then implement the change with clear roles, transparency, and compassion; especially since anxiety tends to spike during this stage. Finally, lock in those changes with updated policies and systems so everyone doesn’t snap back to the “old way” like a rubber band. Communication, training, and inclusive decision-making are critical throughout and, if needed, a gentle nudge (or push) for those who just can’t adjust. And what about donors, you ask? Ann’s answer: communicate thoughtfully. If the change affects donor experience say, new recognition processes or giving channels, then yes, share early and often. But internal staff reorganizations? Probably not their business. The key is transparency with purpose. Ultimately, change is not just about what’s new, but what’s better for mission, for staff, and for the generous folks who fuel the work. As always, this episode is packed with practical guidance for fundraising leaders committed to growth, and just might make you rethink how your organization embraces what’s next.