The Power of Coaching for Fundraisers and Nonprofit Leaders

There have been a lot of milestones in my life lately. Earlier this year, I turned 50. My youngest child graduated high school and left for college.

So, I’ve been thinking a lot about my goals — what comes next?

Looking Back to Move Forward

The Jewish New Year is coming up and one tradition, prior to the holiday, is to visit the gravesites of loved ones. We do our best to gather annually to visit the deceased. Last week was our annual get together.

This year, I was the lone representative from my side of the family, and it was up to me to share memories of my grandparents and aunt. I recalled how my grandmother didn’t have the opportunity to go to college as a young woman. And after seeing her girls graduate from college and graduate school, she went back and got her degree in her late 50s and early 60s.

Considering the Possibilities

It made me proud, nearly 40 years later, to recall that story about my grandmother. And it got me thinking…

• What would make me happy?
• What would make me proud?
• What do I want to do with my next 10 years?
• What do I want my children and grandchildren to remember about me?

I’ve added many things to my list around health, family, friends, religion, and work.

The two things that stand out the most are goals for which I’ve hired coaches.

1. Last year, I hired a weight training coach. I’ve never been much into fitness, but as I get older, I know this is critical for staying active as I age.
2. This year, I invested a year-long, intensive speaking program, including a 1:1 coach.

Why Even Experienced Leaders Need Coaches

If you’ve been following me for a while, that might seem puzzling. After all, I’ve been speaking professionally for over 15 years. Why would I need a coach?

The truth is, I’ve hired four speaking coaches over the last fifteen years. And each one has made me better and better.

It’s never too late to improve one’s skills. And I’m ready to take my speaking to the next level. That means more keynotes in my future!

I’ve got a keynote coming up in October for the CASE Community College Conference and my coach has helped significantly improve the speech and my delivery. I am thrilled to be rolling out this new content and can’t wait to see how the audience reacts.

At Capital Campaign Pro, I see the power of coaching every day. Our campaign experts work with clients on strategy and planning, provide guidance, training, and encouragement.

5 Reasons Why Coaching Works Wonders

Here are five solid reasons why coaching works so well.

1. Accountability: Coaches help you stay committed to your goals, even when life gets busy.
2. Expert Guidance: A skilled coach can spot areas for improvement that you may not recognize yourself.
3. Encouragement: Coaches provide the support you need when self-doubt creeps in.
4. Confidence Building: With practice, feedback, and encouragement, you gain the confidence to take on bigger challenges.
5. Faster Growth: Instead of trial and error, you benefit from proven strategies and shortcuts to success.

The Power of Coaching: Tapping Your Strength

Coaching isn’t about weakness — it’s about strength. It’s about investing in yourself, your future, and your ability to achieve more than you thought possible. Whether it’s fitness, speaking, leadership, or fundraising, coaching provides the tools and support to grow with intention.

As I move into this next chapter of life, I’m more convinced than ever:

The power of coaching is transformational.

And the comfort in knowing that you don’t have to go it alone.