What will fundraising success look like for your organization and others in the year ahead?
On February 11, 2026, CCS hosted a one-hour discussion in anticipation of the 2026 CCS Philanthropy Pulse report. Discover the latest trends shaping the future of nonprofit fundraising in this timely, insight-rich on-demand video that brings together perspectives from nonprofit leaders navigating today’s evolving philanthropic landscape. Drawing on responses from hundreds of organizations across the industry, this session translates peer experience and data into practical guidance.
Hear directly from nonprofit professionals as we explore what leaders are seeing now and how they’re preparing for what’s next. Key topics include:
- Where nonprofit leaders are focusing in the year ahead: strengthening donor retention and acquisition, navigating government policy impacts, and diversifying revenue with individual, mid‑level, DAF, and non‑cash giving.
- What peers are seeing in donor engagement and growth: practical stewardship cadences (impact reports, semi‑personalized automation), mid‑level donor programs, and data/CRM unification to coordinate outreach across teams and chapters.
- How boards, teams, and tools support outcomes: clearer board giving/fundraising expectations, addressing staff capacity and retention, and early AI use cases that extend teams (e.g., AI grant writer and social agent) without sacrificing quality.
We hope this conversation helps you benchmark your thinking, sharpen your strategy, and move into the year ahead with greater clarity and confidence.
MODERATED BY:
Lindsay Marciniak
Managing Partner, CCS Fundraising
Lindsay brings more than 15 years of experience guiding nonprofit organizations through ambitious campaigns, growth, and transitions. She has advised senior leaders across higher education, human services, and arts and culture, helping organizations secure over $1 billion in philanthropic support. Her partnership-driven approach and deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape make her well positioned to guide today’s conversation.
MEET OUR SPEAKERS:
Melissa Arias
Chief Chapter Advancement Officer
Melissa is a seasoned nonprofit leader with 20+ years of experience in fundraising, organizational leadership, and nonprofit operations. At Make-A-Wish America, she supports the operations of 57 chapters nationwide and partners with chapter leadership to build thriving, healthy organizations as they deliver life-changing wishes for children.
Kira Elbert
Executive Director, The Elkins Foundation
Kira brings 20+ years of global nonprofit leadership, guiding transformative initiatives in fundraising, development, and strategic growth. She has led major efforts at Houston Parks Board, myAgro, and Touch Health, helping communities thrive through innovative, high-impact programs.
Jeff Shaw
Vice President for University Advancement, Prairie View A&M University
Jeff is a higher education advancement leader with 20+ years of experience driving fundraising, alumni engagement, and institutional growth. At Prairie View A&M University, he leads strategic initiatives to amplify the university’s impact and secure transformational philanthropic support.