Welcome back to Elevate Your Event!
This week, Jeff Porter sits down with Shilpa Alva, founder and executive director of Search for Water. What started as a party-loving 20-something’s social gatherings grew into a global nonprofit tackling water access, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health in Haiti, Uganda, and Indonesia. Shilpa’s journey shows how a single event can spark an international mission—and why events remain central to her organization’s impact today.
In This Episode:
How Shilpa’s very first event at the Weisman Art Museum launched Search for Water
The creative, scrappy, and manual ways early events came together—think hand-swiped credit cards and DIY branding
Why ticket sales aren’t your biggest revenue driver (and where to focus instead)
The unique two-part event model Shilpa uses today: VIP dinner + high-energy afterparty
Smart uses of technology—and what nonprofits really need next from their platforms
The annual silent auction debate: Keep it or kill it? Shilpa’s surprising perspective
Why It Matters:
Shilpa’s story is proof that you don’t need a huge budget or fancy tools to make a lasting impact. With creativity, persistence, and the right people, even small events can drive big change—locally and globally.
Key Takeaways:
Think beyond ticket sales—other revenue streams can outpace them
Your first event doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerful
Tech can save time and improve guest experiences when paired with solid processes
Creative event formats can keep supporters coming back year after year
Final Thought:
From swiping cards by hand to running high-tech, high-impact events, Shilpa Alva proves that the heart of fundraising is about connection, creativity, and vision. Your next event could be the start of something bigger than you ever imagined.
Welcome back to Elevate Your Event!
We’ve hit triple digits—and we're celebrating big. In this 100th episode, Jeff and Mark reflect on the journey so far, revisit fan-favorite moments, and take you behind the scenes with hilarious stories, heartfelt lessons, and a brutally funny AI-generated roast of Handbid's own Jeff Porter.
In This Episode:
Why It Matters:
100 episodes isn't just a number—it's a testament to the creativity, resilience, and humor required to thrive in the fundraising world. Whether you're planning your first gala or your 50th, the stories and insights in this episode are a reminder that the event must go on—and it can be awesome.
Key Takeaways:
Final Thought:
Here’s to 100 episodes of elevating fundraising, solving real-world challenges, and laughing through the madness. Thanks for being on this journey with us—we can’t wait to bring you the next 100.
Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this behind-the-scenes episode, Jeff sits down with David Farmer, Area Director for FCA South Denver, to explore how intentional event design, bold decisions, and donor-focused experiences have transformed FCA’s fundraising efforts.
In This Episode:
Why It Matters:
Fundraising events aren’t just about raising money—they’re about building relationships, telling your story, and creating an experience people want to support. David’s journey shows how taking risks, elevating the experience, and leaning on the right team can turn average events into impactful ones that drive long-term support.
Key Takeaways:
Final Thought:
If your events feel stuck in neutral, maybe it’s time to elevate your strategy. Tune in for real-world lessons on risk, relationships, and building events that grow both your donor base and your mission.
Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this episode, Jeff and Elise sit down with Dan Donovan from Stratoscope to unpack the often-overlooked world of event security—and why getting it right is critical for both guest experience and event success.
In This Episode:
Why It Matters:
Security can feel like an afterthought—until something goes wrong. Whether it’s a large-scale festival or a small charity gala, every event has vulnerabilities. This episode explores how thoughtful planning, the right staffing, and simple precautions can reduce risks while keeping the guest experience smooth and welcoming.
Key Takeaways:
Final Thought:
No event is too small to be a target. From lost auction items to major safety risks, proactive security planning protects your guests, your reputation, and your peace of mind. Tune in for real-world advice from someone who’s seen it all—and learn how to make safety a seamless part of your event.
Connect with Donovan:
https://stratoscope.com
https://stratosk9.com/
https://ingressotek.com/
Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this episode, Jeff, Elise, and the Handbid team come together for an insider conversation on what’s coming next for Handbid and the most requested features from clients and the team alike.
In This Episode:
Why It Matters:
Great technology doesn’t just show up—it evolves through real-world feedback and constant improvement. This episode gives you a transparent look at how the Handbid team listens to users, prioritizes new features, and keeps innovating to make fundraising events smoother, faster, and more successful.
Key Takeaways:
Final Thought:
Whether you're running a school auction, charity gala, or massive corporate event, the tools you use should work with you—not against you. Stay tuned to hear how Handbid is building the next wave of features to help elevate your event.
Welcome back to Elevate Your Event!
In this insightful episode, Jeff is joined once again by Mitch Stein from Chariot to break down the often misunderstood world of donor-advised funds (DAFs). From debunking myths to sharing real-life success stories, they dive into how DAFs can revolutionize giving at your fundraising events—and how the Handbid and Chariot integration makes it easier than ever.
In This Episode:
Why It Matters:
DAFs aren’t just a tax tool for major donors—they’re a growing giving vehicle for everyday philanthropists. By making it easier for donors to give through their DAFs, nonprofits can unlock more generous gifts, reduce donor friction, and stay compliant without the paperwork headache.
Key Takeaways:
Final Thought:
Donor-advised funds don’t have to be intimidating or complex. With the right tools and a little education, you can make DAF giving easy, accessible, and highly impactful for your organization. Tune in to find out how—and why now is the perfect time to get on board.
Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this forward-looking episode, Jeff, Elise, and Shania take a deep dive into how mobile app technology can transform the arrival experience at fundraising events.
In This Episode:
Why It Matters:
For many event planners, the arrival experience sets the tone for the entire evening. If guests are stuck in line or fumbling with outdated systems, it can take the energy out of your event before it even begins. This episode explores how to remove friction, improve personalization, and use technology in ways that feel seamless and thoughtful—not invasive.
Key Takeaways:
Final Thought:
If you’re still relying on basic check-in tools and printed guest lists, it might be time to elevate your arrival experience. Tune in for a fresh take on what’s possible when tech works with you, not around you.
Starting a nonprofit can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff with a parachute you’ve never packed. In this episode, Jeff, Inga, and Mark sit down with Matt Stockman to unpack his six-part framework—the Nonprofit Launch Plan—that helps emerging nonprofits go from overwhelmed to organized.
What You’ll Learn:
Matt’s Big Takeaway: The difference between a nonprofit that survives and one that thrives often lies in having a simple, flexible framework and the courage to stick to it.
Connect with Matt:
Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Website: nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Hosts: Jeff Porter, Inga Weiss, and Mark
Presented by: Handbid
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube and never miss an episode!
In this fun and candid episode, Mark, Elise, and Jeff recap Handbid’s 19th annual Derby Fundraiser, highlighting what went well, what could be improved, and how they continue to elevate their signature event each year. From logistical tweaks to food upgrades, the team walks us through the behind-the-scenes moments that made this year’s Derby Day a hit.
Episode Highlights:
Tune in now to hear how Handbid continues to refine and elevate their events, ensuring every year is better than the last!
In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we’re joined by Kimberly Tittle, Executive Director of 15|40 Productions, who brings over two decades of expertise in crafting unforgettable events. Kimberly dives deep into what it really takes to elevate guest experiences—from arrival to farewell. She shares how a thoughtful blend of technology and human connection can make or break an event, and why guest comfort should always be center stage.
We also explore the unique dynamics of balancing celebrity privacy with charitable engagement, adding interactive elements that leave lasting impressions, and the behind-the-scenes magic of coordinating teams and volunteers. Kimberly highlights the irreplaceable value of professional event planners in pulling all the pieces together and delivering events that guests won’t stop talking about.
Top Takeaways:
This episode flips the script. No guests. No panels. Just Jeff and Mark diving deep into the history and evolution of one of Denver’s most unique fundraising events: Derby Day at Fiddler’s Green. What started as a backyard party nearly two decades ago is now a full-blown, high-end experience with fire pits, LED screens, custom cocktails, and serious fundraising power.
Jeff shares how the event has grown, what they’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), and why creating a memorable experience is the key to fundraising success. From ditching stuffy venues to selling $5K fire pit tables and booking Nashville acts—this is a masterclass in bold moves and thoughtful planning.
What You’ll Learn:
Links & Mentions:
Whether you’re planning your first gala or your 20th, this episode is packed with practical ideas, honest insights, and a few laughs along the way.
In this episode, our guest Graeme Watt introduces the Strategic Inevitability Framework—a powerful tool designed to help nonprofits bring clarity, focus, and follow-through to their strategic plans. Graeme shares why it’s crucial to set clear goals, build accountability, and focus on fewer, high-impact actions to drive meaningful progress.
He also dives into the importance of celebrating wins, co-creating plans with your team, and visualizing success with exercises like the “Champagne Moment.” From adapting during execution to breaking free from outdated practices, Graeme offers practical insights and tools to help organizations not just plan, but thrive.
🎧 Tune in to learn:
• Clarify goals with a focused, strategic framework.
• Prioritize fewer, high-impact activities for better results.
• Build accountability through regular check-ins and clear execution plans.
• Use a 12-month roadmap to guide action and maintain momentum.
• Embrace essentialism and flexibility to stay on track.
• Co-create plans to boost team commitment and ownership.
• Celebrate wins to sustain energy and progress.
• Align event planning with strategic goals.
• Strong execution often matters more than novel ideas.
🔗 Links & Resources:
If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow fundraiser! 🚀
💡 Connect with Handbid:
📍 Website
📍 LinkedIn
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we sit down with Scott Dishong, CEO of Make-A-Wish Colorado, to explore how his team brings hope and joy to children with critical illnesses. From unique wishes (like a robotic dragon!) to the massive impact of student-led fundraising, Scott shares insights into what makes Make-A-Wish so special.
We also dive into fundraising strategies, including how Make-A-Wish Colorado transformed their traditional gala into Whiskey, Wine & Wishes—a high-energy, concert-style event that engages new donors while keeping longtime supporters excited. Plus, Scott shares leadership lessons and the key to building strong teams and relationships in the nonprofit world.
🎧 Tune in to learn:
✔️ How Make-A-Wish Colorado grants 380+ wishes per year
✔️ The impact of student-led fundraising & Wish Week
✔️ Why events are still a powerful donor engagement tool
✔️ How to turn a gala into an unforgettable experience
✔️ Scott’s top advice for nonprofit leaders
🔗 Links & Resources:
If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow fundraiser! 🚀
💡 Connect with Handbid:
📍 Website
📍 LinkedIn
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
Episode Summary:
Your event was a hit—but how do you keep donors engaged after the night is over? In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we dive into the must-know strategies for donor retention.
From capturing donor data at check-in to creating meaningful touchpoints throughout the year, we’re breaking down practical ways to keep supporters connected. Plus, we discuss why making small improvements to your event each year keeps donors excited (without alienating your long-time supporters).
Key Takeaways:
🎧 Tune in now for expert insights on keeping your donors engaged long after your event ends!
💡 Connect with Handbid:
📍 Website
📍 LinkedIn
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
Episode Summary:
Welcome back to the Elevate Your Event podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into the power of text messaging for fundraising with special guest James Martin from RallyCorp. If you’ve ever struggled with low email open rates or declining donor engagement, you’ll want to hear how SMS can transform the way you connect with supporters.
James shares his journey from building a content management company to founding RallyCorp, a platform dedicated to human-centered texting for nonprofits. He explains why text messaging outperforms email, how to navigate compliance challenges, and why a 15% click rate should be your new benchmark for engagement.
James also shares some great insights on where text messaging is headed, including new technologies like RCS (Rich Communication Services), personalized tracking links, and two-way engagement strategies.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Key Takeaway:
Resources & Links:
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we welcome Tracy Judge and Nikki Gonzales from Soundings to explore the evolving world of event staffing and management. They discuss how skilled freelance talent can enhance fundraising events, the importance of aligning the right people with the right roles, and how personality impacts guest experiences. The conversation also highlights the use of CliftonStrengths for strategic staffing and the hidden costs of under-qualified personnel.
Nikki and Tracy also dive into the changing expectations of Gen Z attendees, the growing role of technology in events, and the need for inclusivity and adaptability. With insights on forming strong partnerships and rethinking talent strategies, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for event professionals looking to stay ahead of industry trends.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Resources and Links:
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
Episode Summary:
Step into the future of events with Jeff, Mark, and Elise as they break down the latest innovations from AXIS Drive and Stripe Tour. From personalized LED screens that greet guests by name to face-recognition check-ins and walkout payment systems, we’re exploring how next-gen technology is transforming guest experiences. How can fundraising events borrow from major sports venues and concert arenas? And what’s up with “dead hand” security? Tune in for a fun, slightly creepy, but totally fascinating look at the tech shaping events of tomorrow.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
Episode Summary:
Ready to turn those nerve-wracking speeches into mic-dropping moments? In this episode, public speaking coach and storytelling expert Johanna Walker shares all her best tips on public speaking and storytelling to help you rock the stage at your next event. From crafting emotional, audience-grabbing stories to channeling stage fright into superstar energy, Johanna’s advice will have you captivating crowds and leaving a lasting impression.
Whether you’re running a fundraiser or leading a big presentation, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to help you connect, inspire, and (most importantly) keep your audience awake.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Pro Tips from Johanna:
Why Listen?
Because nobody wants to sit through another boring speech. This episode is your crash course in how to grab your audience’s attention, keep them engaged, and inspire them to take action.
Connect with Johanna Walker:
https://johannawalker.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannawalkerspeaking/
Episode Summary:
As we bid farewell to a fantastic year, join us for this special New Year’s episode where we reflect on 2024 and set sights on elevating events in 2025. From lessons learned at memorable fundraisers to setting impactful resolutions, this episode is packed with actionable insights for nonprofit leaders and event planners!
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
1. Event Highlights of the Year
• Inspiring stories from standout fundraisers like a Young Life event featuring supercars and helicopter rides, heartfelt moments at One Goat honoring first responders, and the perks of hiring professional event planners.
2. New Year’s Resolutions for Fundraising Events
• Start: Embrace technology to boost engagement and maximize mobile bidding software potential.
• Stop: Overloading your event program with too much content or relying solely on annual fundraising events to connect with donors.
• Keep: Building relationships, adapting, and investing in innovation to stay ahead in an ever-changing landscape.
3. Tech and Engagement Tips
• Why the right mobile bidding software is a profit center—not just a cost—and how it drives better results for your events.
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
It’s time for some festive fun! In this special holiday episode of Elevate Your Event, the Handbid team trades fundraising tips for a rollicking round of holiday trivia. From classic Christmas movie questions to New Year’s Eve traditions (did you know about the twelve lucky grapes?), this episode is packed with laughter, friendly competition, and a surprising amount of biblical deep dives.
Who reigns supreme in trivia? Will Jeff find a new team for next year? And what exactly do the carolers demand in “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”? Tune in to find out and test your own holiday knowledge along the way!
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
• 🎥 Holiday Movie Trivia: Who remembers where Buddy the Elf works or the angel’s choir name in How the Grinch Stole Christmas? (Hint: It’s not “The Who’s!”)
• 🎵 Christmas Songs: Which tune has been streamed the most on Spotify? And what’s the snowman’s name in Winter Wonderland?
• 🎄 New Year’s Traditions: From the grapes of luck in Spain to the staggering number of crystals on the Times Square Ball, these questions will have you saying, “Wait, what?”
• 📖 Bible Trivia: The team tackles tough questions about prophecies, the Magi, and ancient genealogy—resulting in some wildly hilarious guesses.
• 😂 Behind-the-Scenes Banter: From Jeff’s tough-love hosting style to Grinch costumes and grappling with ancient Roman trivia, the team keeps the holiday spirit alive.
Listen, rate, and subscribe!
