How Alexander Fruth Thinks About Relationship-Based Fundraising for Long-Term Impact
On today's episode of "How Leaders Think," Kenny Lange sits down with Alexander Fruth, Director of Development for the East Texas Food Bank, for an in-depth conversation on the art and science of nonprofit fundraising. In this episode, they delve into the significance of embedding an organization's mission into every action, drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek's concept of the "why." Alex shares innovative strategies for donor engagement, especially when direct interaction with the mission is challenging, and offers valuable advice for those beginning their journey in relationship-based fundraising. They also discuss balancing leadership roles, cultivating a philanthropic culture, and leveraging the collective power of staff and volunteers.
Other places to find the “How Leaders Think” podcast:
Other places to find the “How Leaders Think” podcast:
* Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-leaders-think-with-kenny-lange/id1434737807
* Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL2tlZXAtcmlzaW5nLXdpdGgta2VubnktbGFuZ2U=
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KennyLange/podcasts
* Website: https://howleadersthink.kennylange.com/
Alex Fruth Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-fruth-cfre-msw-aba0a189/
Website: https://www.easttexasfoodbank.org/
Books Mentioned:
Start with Why: https://amzn.to/4eCaIae
#LeadershipJourney #NonprofitStrategy #DonorEngagement #MissionDriven #RelationshipFundraising
- (00:00) - Prioritizing sleep and work-life balance focus.
- (05:28) - East Texas nonprofits meeting goals had plans.
- (07:37) - Fundraising requires clear targets and strategic planning.
- (10:40) - Nonprofit boards require strategic compliance for progress.
- (15:30) - Individual impact is crucial for organizational success.
- (19:16) - Maximize impact by prioritizing tasks and relationships.
- (22:13) - Strategize priorities and streamline for maximum impact.
- (25:38) - Connect donors to work; increase engagement and contributions.
- (27:37) - Fundraising is about connection, not just money.
- (30:40) - Event hosted at food bank for mission integration.
- (35:43) - Podcasts and meetings for fundraising advice.
- (37:06) - People connect over shared passions and ideas.
Creators and Guests
Host
Kenny Lange
Jesus follower, husband, bio-dad to 3, adopted-dad to 2, foster-dad to 18+. @SystemandSoul Certified Coach. Dir. Ops @NCCTylerTX. Go @ChelseaFC
Guest
Alexander Fruth
Alex is a nonprofit professional focused on building genuine relationships and connecting community partners passions and interests to community needs. He is the current president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, East Texas Chapter, and serves on the Board for South Tyler Rotary and First Tee of Greater Tyler. He is a proud husband and father.
