Trust in Action: Applying Research Insights in a Changing Philanthropic Landscape
Description
Trust is key in giving, philanthropic relationships, and meaningful donor conversations. Yet fundraisers are operating in an environment where trust in institutions is shifting and often declining. What do we know about trust in society today? How do people view and trust nonprofit organizations? And what experiences build or erode trust from a donor's perspective?
In this interactive webinar, participants will explore research about the current trust landscape, beginning with a broad look at societal trust and public confidence in the nonprofit sector. The session will then focus on the donor experience, highlighting the moments, behaviors, and organizational practices that strengthen or weaken donor trust over time. Participants will reflect on their practices, compare perspectives, and consider how trust influences donor relationships and organizational success. Together we will explore:
Key trends in societal trust and their implications for fundraising.
Common donor experiences that contribute to trust or mistrust.
The trust lens and everyday fundraising interactions and decisions.
Practical opportunities to strengthen trust with donors and stakeholders.
This webinar is supported by the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and the Vanguard Philanthropic Impact Fund.
Contributors
Genevieve G. Shaker, Ph.D.
Genevieve G. Shaker, Ph.D., is a professor of philanthropic studies and
the Donald A. Campbell Chair in Fundraising Leadership at the Indiana
University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. In her two decades as a
university fundraising and communications professional, she helped Indiana
University connect with supporters and achieve significant goals. Today, Dr.
Shaker is focused on supporting the nonprofit sector through teaching, speaking,
and writing, and conducting research about fundraising and the fundraising
profession, donor advised funds, and the philanthropic dimensions of higher
education. She is a recipient of the AFP Emerging Scholar Award and the AFP
Foundation/Skystone Prize for Research.
Sarah K. Nathan, Ph.D.
Sarah K. Nathan, Ph.D. is a philanthropy leader, educator, and scholar
whose career reflects a deep commitment to advancing the nonprofit sector
through both practice and research. A self-described “pracademic,” she has
served as a foundation executive, fundraiser, faculty member, and enthusiastic
volunteer, most recently leading community philanthropy efforts as Executive
Director of the Middletown Community Foundation and Northfield Shares. In these
roles, she guided strategy, fundraising, and grantmaking, working closely with
community stakeholders to build trust, strengthen partnerships, and translate
local aspirations into meaningful philanthropic impact.