December 2, 2025
Dear Readers,
Happy GivingTuesday? I know—it’s not really a happy time in our sector. But the (fundraising) show must go on because it’s fundraising that allows us to achieve our missions, funds our hard-working staff, and helps us adapt to the challenging environment in which we find ourselves.
Speaking of challenging environments, this week’s Nonprofit Leadership newsletter kicks off with a sobering report by Lauren Girardin about the potential impacts on the sector of the Trump administration’s plans to slash the US Education Department.
As nonprofits continue to navigate a sector plagued by federal attacks, organizations such as the Public Rights Project are using GivingTuesday to lean into their mission and impact to let funders know exactly where they stand. And GivingTuesday can be a means to raise more than just dollars—it’s a great way to mobilize grassroots funders.
If you have any hesitancies around fundraising during GivingTuesday (and beyond), Rhea Wong has some answers, written with her inimitable wit, candor, and empathy for those in the proverbial trenches.
And for guidance on determining your fundraising metrics and “fitness,” tap into the insights and tools of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project, a program of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
As always, I love to hear from you. Email me at [email protected].
Isaiah Thompson
Leadership
Editor
