Program Overview.
Building on prior regional investments in fundraising capacity by The Benter Foundation and The Forbes Funds, Elevate NP is pleased to welcome back Derrick Feldmann of ISG for a full-day workshop focused on strengthening fundraising appeals and donor communications. Participants will work through the principles of persuasive appeal writing, examine what separates high-performing appeals from forgettable ones, and apply those insights through structured exercises.
Trainer.
Derrick Feldmann (ISG) is internationally recognized as a leading researcher and strategic advisor on philanthropy, social issues, public engagement, and movement-driven change. His full bio can be found at here.
When: Thursday, October 1, 2026 (9:00 AM to 3:30 PM)
Where: CCAC – Allegheny Campus in the Center for Education Innovation and Training (CEIT) Building (807 Ridge Ave, Pittsburgh 15212).
Intended Audience.
This program is intended for development/fundraising staff at 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in Southwest Pennsylvania that have:
– A paid Executive Director or CEO
– An annual organizational budget less than $5 million
– An existing annual fund program that features direct mail, email and/or any other elements of multichannel fundraising (social media, events, etc.).
– A CRM in place that is used regularly and updated to track donor relationships, annual fund appeals and outcomes.
– A budget in place to execute an annual appeal (funds for direct mail, etc.)
Program Costs.
This program includes a full day of in-person learning and practical application as well as breakfast, lunch, and a 45-minute post-session remote consultation with Derrick that will take place between October 15 – 30, 2026. While the cost of participating is subsidized by generous foundation support, participants will be invoiced for $100 per person upon selection for the program.
Application Process.
This program is limited to 20 participants. Interested candidates should apply online by August 21, 2026. Selected applicants will be notified of program acceptance by September 1, 2026.
Questions?
Contact Julia Och (julia@elevatenpswpa.org or 412-219-3148)