Donna Montgomery (she/her)

Here at North Star, I am the lead writer and @Michelle Cohl is the managing editor. She is the keeper of all the instructions, requirements and parameters that we have to meet in order to give our clients what they want. I hate instructions, requirements and parameters so I tend to try to ignore them and write the assignment the way I want to. Michelle then summons me, shows me the details I was supposed to remember and tells me to go back to work - at which point I tend to argue for why these parameters don't make the work better. What follows is usually a dynamic process in which the two of us figure out a puzzle: How to check every box the client wants or needs, while still getting the benefit of our very strong instincts as writers. The result is excellence. Making it work requires each of us to recognize we have different strengths and points of emphasis, but that we both value the same thing - the absolute best work for our clients. I don't think this works with every combination of teammates, but you need both the appreciation of the process and respect for the other person's instincts that are different from yours. We've been honing and mastering this process, and our approach to it, for nearly five years. I'm very proud of how we do it. And I'm grateful to have such a good teammate who is so different from me in some ways, yet shares the same commitment to value. #teamwork #honordifferences #dynamiccollaboration #clientvalue #contentmarketing #commitmenttoexcellence

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How do we approach a name change for a nonprofit? As you know, one of the most difficult challenges when considering a new name is achieving unity and buy-in from board members, executive leadership and major investors. In a recent renaming effort we presented to the leadership foundational ways of thinking about a new name. It was as simple as explaining how you can either be very literal or aspirational. Examples of literal names are Coca-Cola, St. Judes, Habitat for Humanity, (note that they chose distinct words) and Feeding America. Aspirational names are among the most iconic brands in the world, the most obvious example is Nike, named after the Greek goddess of flight. Aspirational names can also be a harder sell to board members and leadership. It initially feels more risky. But when the name truly represents the heart and essence of your mission it can be the most emotionally enduring choice. It becomes the initial spark of inspiration that attracts others of like mind to want to learn more about you. Please also remember that the name doesn’t need to do too much. It needs to be one simple idea that comes to light. This idea is illuminated with storytelling, design and supporting messaging. #nonprofits #nonprofit marketing #branding

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🔥 🔥 🔥 Great article from J. Walker Smith about how AI is continuing to disrupt marketing. The article from MediaPost is below and gated, but free, and worth the two minutes to put your email address in. Walker's audience is brands--generally big brands--but the #nonprofit space is no different. For years, our sector has chased scale – bigger lists, more emails, broader reach. But just like traditional marketers, we may have overlooked something crucial: loyalty and genuine connection. (I know we talk about it, but are we really practicing it? Across all segments?) Here's what's keeping me up at night: We're about to face unprecedented disruption in our industry. AI will soon preview our email content, decide which messages get seen, and transform how personalized ads work. The storytelling that's been our bread and butter? It might never reach our donors' eyes if it doesn't satisfy the algorithms first. But there's hope in adaptation. Just as brands must balance "advertising to algorithms" with maintaining human connections, we fundraisers must master this delicate dance. We need to: ➡️ Understand how AI will mediate donor relationships ➡️ Rethink our approach to donor loyalty (it might become more important than ever) ➡️ Learn to tell our stories in ways that resonate with both AI gatekeepers and human hearts ➡️ Keep our creative unique, interesting, and bespoke. Sure, we'll use AI to do better targeting, improve the outreach cadence, optimize the channel mix, and make the right ask. But we also need to remember that these approaches are impersonal. The nonprofits that thrive tomorrow will embrace this evolution today, finding ways to maintain authentic connections in an increasingly AI-mediated world. What steps is your organization taking to prepare for these changes? https://lnkd.in/gX6KjgWg #NonprofitFundraising #DirectResponse #AI #FundraisingFuture #DonorEngagement

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Need a little inspiration or help with your #nonprofit #marketing work? We've got you. Join us for free on June 18th. We're on a mission to help you expand your reach, grow your revenue and better tell your story. Details below if you're interested. #marketingstrategy #webinar #nonprofitmarketing

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Sponsorship and fundraising may seem similar, but their goals are fundamentally different. Sponsorship focuses on a commercial return—like brand recognition or audience access—while fundraising is about supporting a cause. Knowing the distinction can transform how you communicate with potential partners. https://lnkd.in/gGummsQX Are you aligning your pitch with their goals?

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Why do people struggle with the word failure? Would love to hear your thoughts below! 🤔 Steve Arntz and I explore this question as he opens up about getting fired, missed opportunities to join the most successful companies in Utah's history, and how he defines success. His thoughts were SO INSIGHTFUL. Steve shares the influence of Dave Grow, Brock Blake, and Johnny Hanna💭 in his career journey. Link to the Real F Word podcast on all platforms in comments below 👇 🎙 ▶ . Listen, like, subscribe, and comment if you think this is interesting. Amplēo. Campfire.

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The top three questions on the mind of your association's prospective sponsors, exhibitors, and advertisers: 1. Are there any tote bags out there that could use a logo on them? 2. Do any industry publications have an upcoming deadline? 3. We have a lot of money, I wonder which associations need some of it? Yes, of course, I'm kidding. 🤓 To find out what they REALLY have on their minds and how you can use that information to connect with more of your association's prospects, join me for a free online sales workshop on Friday 6/21 at noon ET or on Thursday 6/27 at noon ET. For more details: https://lnkd.in/evyJJKiz #assnchat #nonduesrevenue

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Great proof of the outcomes that Data Axle data can create.

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I’ve worked with hundreds of organizations, some with decades of history. They often struggle with shifting missions, outdated messaging, and expanding services. They face the challenge of aligning their brand, attracting new funding sources, and engaging younger donors in an evolving philanthropic landscape. In this podcast clip, hear me discuss what other organizations are experiencing and other trends in the nonprofit sector. What brand challenges are your nonprofit facing? #NonprofitBranding, #NonprofitFundraising, #NonprofitSolutions 

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Your nonprofit's website is often the first point of contact for potential supporters. Is yours telling your story effectively? Discover the key elements of a successful nonprofit website at boldcitywebdesign.com #nonprofitmarketing #websitedesign #boldcitywebdesign

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Your nonprofit's website is often the first point of contact for potential supporters. Is yours telling your story effectively? Discover the key elements of a successful nonprofit website at boldcitywebdesign.com #nonprofitmarketing #websitedesign #boldcitywebdesign

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Have you ever thought about where the future of your business is coming from? 🌱💭 It might just be sitting in a classroom, planting flowers, or working on a small family farm right now. This week on The Landscaper’s Guide, I had the chance to chat with Jason Davis—a farmer, educator, and lifelong advocate for the green industry. His passion for farming and teaching will inspire you to think differently about growing your business and your team. Jason’s farm is buzzing—literally. 🐝 From beekeeping and mums to sweet corn and cut flowers, he’s got a lot going on. But what really stands out is how he’s using tools like Facebook to connect directly with local customers. He’s proof that social media isn’t just for cat videos—it’s a powerful tool to grow your business. And let’s talk about hiring. If finding young talent feels like an uphill battle 🧗‍♂️, this episode is a game-changer. Jason shares how he’s partnering with schools, offering internships, and creating a talent pipeline for the next generation. His practical advice is like fertilizer for your business—just without the smell. Whether you’re managing a big crew or just starting out, this episode is packed with ideas you can put to work today. Jason’s passion for cultivating growth—on the farm and in the green industry—is contagious. Here’s what we dive into: 🐝 Life on the Farm: Balancing bees, crops, and teaching full-time while connecting with his community. 🌱 Attracting New Talent: Simple strategies to build a talent pipeline through education and outreach. 💡 Marketing That Sells: Using Facebook to boost revenue and connect with local customers. Hit play now to explore how Jason’s innovative ideas can help you grow your snow and landscape business—and start building the future of your team. 🎧 Watch the full episode now to uncover fresh ideas for hiring, marketing, and building your business. 🌱 #LandscapersGuide #GreenIndustryGrowth #TeamBuilding #MarketingTips #SnowIndustry

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💡 Calling all nonprofits, foundations, and private universities! Ready to supercharge your fundraising efforts? Look no further. Our team of planned giving marketing experts is here to empower your organization's success. Whether you're aiming to engage donors, boost awareness, or drive conversions, we've got you covered. Let's turn your vision into reality, one strategic campaign at a time. Partner with us and watch your impact soar! Contact [email protected] #PlannedGiving #MarketingExperts #EmpowerYourMission 🚀

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Snow and ice management is seasonal. And the reality is that customers often don't remember the services you offer, even if you've told them multiple times. Learn five revenue-boosting strategies to sell your clients on your other services. https://bit.ly/4ehmB5j

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