Fundraising Strategy • Campaign Planning • Board Engagement

Hello Friend,

When I launched Tracy Connelly Philanthropy, my focus was helping organizations strengthen fundraising through campaign readiness studies, philanthropy assessments, and development planning.

Over time, my work has expanded into strategic planning, governance, board development, organizational assessments, and leadership coaching. What I've learned is that effective fundraising rarely stands alone. Strong philanthropy programs are built on strong leadership, clear strategy, engaged boards, effective programs, and healthy organizational cultures.

This month, I'm sharing three resources that may help strengthen your organization: an opportunity to help shape future nonprofit board training in Southwest Florida, information about interim executive leadership services, and a book recommendation for organizations considering strategic planning.

Warm regards,

Tracy Connelly, CFRE

Your Input Needed to Assess Nonprofit Board Training & Development Needs

One of the most common conversations I have with nonprofit leaders is how to help board members become more effective in their governance and leadership roles.

The Southwest Florida Leadership Institute at FGCU is conducting a brief needs assessment to better understand what executive directors believe their boards need most in terms of education and development. The goal is to design practical, affordable training that strengthens governance, financial oversight, fundraising engagement, and long-term organizational sustainability.

The survey takes approximately 6–8 minutes to complete, and all responses will be reported in aggregate.

If you serve as an executive director, CEO, or senior nonprofit leader, I encourage you to take a few moments to share your perspective.

Learn More about Interim Executive Leadership - June 11

Earlier this year, I shared insights from Barbra Kavanaugh, Partner at Interim Executive Solutions, on how interim executives can help organizations navigate leadership transitions.

Interim executives can provide:

Stable leadership during times of change
Organizational assessments to identify strengths and risks
Support in preparing for a successful CEO search
Operational and financial stabilization
Staff leadership and continuity during transitions

Many organizations discover that the interim period becomes a valuable opportunity to clarify priorities, strengthen operations, and prepare for long-term success.

If you'd like to learn more about interim executive leadership—either for your organization or as a potential career opportunity—I would be happy to connect you with Barbra. We are also hosting an informal lunch on June 11 for those interested in learning more. Contact me if you're interested in joining us for lunch or arranging a meeting with Barbra.

Book Review: Inclusive Strategic Planning

I recently read and attended the book launch for Inclusive Strategic Planning by Dr. Renee Rubin Ross.

The book is an excellent resource for any organization considering the process of creating a new Strategic Plan. It provides a practical and thoughtful five-step process whether you plan to use a consultant or create the plan on your own, and whether or not you are a small, start-up organization with no staff, or a large organization with many staff members.

The book offers practical examples that you might find very useful.

Send me your review and comments after you've read the book or let's meet for coffee to discuss!

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