2026 Virginia Fund Raising Institute

This practical, results-focused session demonstrates how AI can revolutionize development operations by handling time-consuming research, writing, and analysis tasks that keep fundraisers from building donor relationships. Participants will see real-world examples of AI applications across donor research, grant writing, appeal personalization, and campaign strategy—with concrete time savings and ROI metrics. The workshop addresses both the “how” and the “why,” including ethical considerations and best practices for responsible AI use. Attendees will leave with a clear implementation roadmap and immediately actionable strategies they can apply to their own development operations. This is not theoretical—it’s a proven methodology already delivering measurable results for nonprofits across the sector.

Workshop attendees will go behind the scenes of ForKids’ 25th anniversary fundraiser to learn how intentional design, board engagement, and donor-centered strategy fueled record-breaking success. The session highlights practical approaches to committee structure, table hosting, storytelling, sponsorship, and immersive event experiences that deepen donor relationships and drive revenue. Participants will also learn how data, consistency, and year-round planning can turn a single event into a sustainable fundraising cornerstone. Attendees will leave with adaptable strategies they can apply to events of any size to increase impact, engagement, and generosity.

Over the past four years, we have implemented a comprehensive communications schedule designed to engage all stakeholders and align strategies across channels. This workshop will explore how monthly reviews keep teams proactive on upcoming tasks and deadlines, while annual evaluations ensure adaptability by adding or removing initiatives, such as incorporating Giving Day and digital communications committees. We’ll highlight opportunities for personalization and segmentation across direct mail, digital platforms, social media, email, and personal outreach. Participants will learn how leveraging stories through multiple channels can maximize efficiency and amplify impact, showcasing the full continuum of care.

How do you get the word out and earn media attention? Emmy Award-winning journalist and public relations professional Amy Lacey will lead this session to give you the tools and knowledge you need to connect with media to get the word out about your work. Amy will cover how to build relationships with the media, how to craft a compelling and relevant pitch, what to do when you get the call, and more.

In a world where social media trends come and go in the blink of an eye, it’s crucial for nonprofits to adopt a long-term strategy to thrive in the ever-changing digital landscape. However, the third sector faces unique challenges in maintaining a long-term social media strategy that drives sustainable impact.
With practical tips and case studies, Julia will demonstrate how to effectively use social media to craft effective calls-to-action that convert fans and followers to donors and long-term supporters. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies, inspiration, and real-world examples of ways that even small nonprofits can market their mission and services on social media.

How do we create a culture of curiosity where asking questions, discussing new ideas, encouraging different perspectives, learning from mistakes is encouraged. Where curiosity leads to a culture of experimentation where ideas, expectations shape how donor research is done and where creativity, new ideas are embedded in our daily operations with our various stakeholders.

Fundraisers today face an overwhelming volume of conflicting advice from donor communication, generational giving, digital platforms, and more. This often leads to analysis paralysis, defaulting to familiar strategies, or cycling through tactics without clear evidence they’re working. This workshop introduces a practical, research-grounded framework that helps development professionals evaluate recommendations and test assumptions before committing significant time and resources. Attendees will leave with a method for getting real answers, not just more opinions.